What does 49 CFR 391.15 (Disqualification of drivers) require?

Short answer

49 CFR 391.15 requires that a driver who is disqualified shall not drive a commercial motor vehicle, and a motor carrier shall not require or permit a driver who is disqualified to drive a commercial motor vehicle. The regulation outlines specific disqualifying offenses, including loss of driving privileges, criminal and other offenses, and violation of out-of-service orders.

The rule says

"A driver who is disqualified shall not drive a commercial motor vehicle." (49 CFR 391.15(a))

"A motor carrier shall not require or permit a driver who is disqualified to drive a commercial motor vehicle." (49 CFR 391.15(a))

"A driver is disqualified for the duration of the driver's loss of his/her privilege to operate a commercial motor vehicle on public highways, either temporarily or permanently, by reason of the revocation, suspension, or cancellation of the driver's commercial motor vehicle operator's license." (49 CFR 391.15(b)(1))

In plain English

Disqualification can result from various offenses, such as loss of driving privileges, driving under the influence, or violating out-of-service orders. Motor carriers must verify a driver's qualification status and not allow disqualified drivers to operate their vehicles. This rule helps prevent accidents and enhances road safety by keeping unqualified drivers off the road.

What to do

• Verify a driver's qualification status before allowing them to operate a commercial motor vehicle.
• Regularly check drivers' motor vehicle records to ensure they have not been disqualified.
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date driver qualification files, including documentation of any disqualifications.
• Ensure that all drivers understand the consequences of disqualifying offenses and the importance of complying with safety regulations.