Ask X3What does 49 CFR 391.25 (Annual inquiry and review of driving record) require?
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Short answer
49 CFR 391.25 requires motor carriers to make an annual inquiry to obtain the motor vehicle record of each driver, covering at least the preceding 12 months, and to review the record to determine whether the driver meets minimum requirements for safe driving. The motor carrier must also maintain a copy of the motor vehicle record and a note relating to the annual review in the driver's qualification file.
The rule says
"Each motor carrier shall, at least once every 12 months, make an inquiry to obtain the motor vehicle record of each driver it employs, covering at least the preceding 12 months, to each driver's licensing authority where the driver held a commercial motor vehicle operator's license or permit during the time period." (49 CFR 391.25(a))
"Each motor carrier shall, at least once every 12 months, review the motor vehicle record of each driver it employs to determine whether that driver meets minimum requirements for safe driving or is disqualified to drive a commercial motor vehicle pursuant to 391.15." (49 CFR 391.25(b))
In plain English
The annual inquiry and review process helps motor carriers to identify drivers who may be at risk of being involved in an accident or who have violated safety regulations. By maintaining a copy of the motor vehicle record and a note relating to the annual review in the driver's qualification file, motor carriers can demonstrate their compliance with this regulation.
What to do
- Make an annual inquiry to obtain the motor vehicle record of each driver, covering at least the preceding 12 months.
- Review the motor vehicle record to determine whether the driver meets minimum requirements for safe driving.
- Maintain a copy of the motor vehicle record and a note relating to the annual review in the driver's qualification file.
- Consider any evidence that the driver has violated applicable Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations or laws governing the operation of motor vehicles.