A Motor Vehicle Record (MVR) is the driver’s official driving history from the state licensing agency. For CDL drivers, running an MVR isn’t optional busywork — FMCSA requires it before hire and every year after. Here’s what an MVR shows, when you must run one, and where to keep it.
What an MVR shows & when to run it
- badgeLicense status & classThe driver’s current license status, class, endorsements, and restrictions — so you can confirm they hold a valid CDL for the equipment they’ll operate.
- gavelConvictions & violationsTraffic convictions, serious violations, and any disqualifying offenses on record with the state, typically over the past 3–7 years depending on the state.
- blockSuspensions & withdrawalsAny license suspensions, revocations, or withdrawals that would disqualify the driver or signal a safety risk.
- event_repeatPre-hire and annual reviewRun an MVR before hire (49 CFR 391.23) and again at least once every 12 months for each driver (49 CFR 391.25). Both must be reviewed and kept on file.
- assignment_turned_inDriver consentMost states and the FCRA require the driver’s written authorization before you can pull their motor vehicle record. Keep the signed consent on file.
- folder_sharedKeep it in the DQ fileThe pre-employment MVR and each annual MVR — plus a dated note of your review — must be retained in the Driver Qualification file per 49 CFR 391.51.
Note: This page summarizes MVR requirements for general guidance and is not legal advice. State rules, retention periods, and FCRA obligations vary — confirm current requirements at fmcsa.dot.gov, your state licensing agency, or with qualified counsel.
How it fits into hiring
The MVR is one part of a compliant process. You use the license and employment details from the driver’s application under 49 CFR 391.21 to know which states to query, run the MVR as part of the 49 CFR 391.23 background investigation, and pair it with a PSP report and your Clearinghouse query. Each MVR and annual review is retained in the Driver Qualification file. See the full sequence in our guide to hiring a truck driver.
Frequently asked questions
What is an MVR (Motor Vehicle Record)?
An MVR is a driver’s official driving record issued by the state licensing agency (DMV/BMV). It shows license status and class, endorsements, traffic convictions, serious violations, and any suspensions or revocations. For CDL drivers it’s a core part of DOT-compliant hiring and monitoring.
Do I have to run an MVR every year?
Yes. Under 49 CFR 391.25, a motor carrier must obtain and review the MVR for each driver at least once every 12 months. You also run one before hire under 391.23. Both are kept in the Driver Qualification file (391.51).
How do I get a truck driver’s MVR?
You request it from the state driver licensing agency where the driver is licensed — directly or through a third-party screening provider. Because a driver may have been licensed in more than one state in the past 3 years, you may need records from each of those states. Written driver consent is required.
Is an MVR the same as a PSP report?
No. An MVR is the state driving record (licenses, convictions, suspensions). A PSP report is federal FMCSA data — crashes and roadside inspections. They cover different things, so most carriers review both.
Do I need the driver’s permission to pull an MVR?
Generally yes. Many states require authorization to release a driving record, and if you use a third-party provider the record is a consumer report under the FCRA — so you must obtain written consent and follow FCRA disclosure and adverse-action rules.