Reasons To Screen Your Job Candidate's Driving Record

December 11, 2021

Most people think they are good drivers—in fact, multiple studies have shown that the vast majority of people think of themselves as being "above average" drivers. Unfortunately, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has evidence that says otherwise, with approximately 95% of accidents caused by human error. Those dire statistics make clear the importance of reviewing the driving history of potential hires.

What Can You Learn from a Job Candidate's Driving Record?

Driver history records generally indicate driving status, infractions, and convictions from the previous three to seven years. Specific details vary among the states, but may include:

License details, status, and class
Driving violations and accident reports
Driving restrictions and suspensions
Vehicular crimes and convictions

Importantly, as with other negative information found through background checks, employment decisions made as a result of screening details are subject to the Drivers Privacy Protection Act, the Fair Credit Reporting Act, and other federal, state, and local regulations.

Why Should You Screen a Job Candidate's Driving Record?

Reviewing a potential hire's driving record is critical for any position in which an employee might use a company vehicle. Proper screening can help ensure you:

Promote Safety — Hiring safe, competent drivers protects both your employees and the public, including your customers.
Legal Compliance — Many industries specify that annual driving record checks be performed to meet legal requirements.
Limit Liability — Employing individuals with poor driving records can open your company up to liability claims in the event of an accident.
Lower Insurance Rates — Hiring employees with good driving records can help prevent your company's insurance rates from rising due to increased risks.
Maintain Your Reputation — Safe, courteous drivers are a benefit to any company, while drivers causing accidents, particularly if found to have faulty driving records, may lower perceptions of your company's care and safety among customers and business partners.

At Employers Reference Source, Inc., our expert team is ready to provide driving record reviews and other background screenings to keep your employees and customers as safe as possible. Contact us today to learn more about our full screening capabilities.

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