Trucking is one of the biggest industries in America, with annual revenue of 255.5 billion per year. So properly hiring a fleet driver means checking if they have the correct documents ready during an interview.
Truck companies in every state and sometimes at the federal level must have technical documents to prove that they own their vehicles. These documents can often differ from those of passenger car and truck owners. So how do you avoid hiring ill-trained and incompetent drivers?
Read on to learn more about asking for and securing the right documents before hiring a fleet driver for your company.
Commercial Driver’s License
Operating a commercial vehicle comes with a lot of responsibility. Not only do you have to adhere to all the rules of the road, but you also have to meet DOT compliance standards.
These regulations promote commercial motor vehicle (CMV) safety on our nation’s highways. To operate a CMV, drivers must have the proper credentials, which include a valid Commercial Driver’s License (CDL). The type of CMV operations will determine the class of CDL that drivers must obtain.
Medical Certificate
As a commercial fleet driver, you need to maintain certain medical documents. The most important is a medical certificate, which confirms that you are fit to operate a commercial vehicle. Without a valid medical certificate, you will not be able to drive for your company.
You may need to maintain other medical documents depending on your company’s policies. These could include a physical fitness certificate and vision and hearing test results. It is essential to stay current on all of your required medical documents so that you can continue to drive for your company.
A small trucking company can also use tools to secure these classified files. Good software for carrier company services can improve your operations and keep track of your employees’ records.
Title and Registration
Your title is the legal document that proves you own your vehicle. Your registration confirms that your vehicle is properly registered with the state where you live.
If either of these documents expires or is not in your name, you could be subject to fines, or the authorities will impound your vehicle. Keep your documents in a safe and accessible place so that you can consistently produce them when necessary.
Proof of Insurance
All commercial motor vehicle drivers need to carry proof of insurance. The best way to take this proof is to keep a copy of the insurance policy in the vehicle’s glove compartment.
This documentation will make it easier for the driver to comply with the law and help avoid any potential problems should an accident occur. If you are in an accident, your insurance can cover the damages.
Motor Carrier Authority Number
This number identifies the company the driver works for and allows the DOT to track the company’s compliance with safety regulations. It is obtained from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). It is required for any vehicle transporting passengers or property for hire.
Set Proper Compliance Standards for Hiring a Fleet Driver
As a fleet driver, knowing the documents you need to keep on hand while on the job is essential. These documents include your commercial driver’s license, registration, proof of insurance, and more.
Be sure to keep these documents up to date and in an accessible location. Ask your supervisor if you have any questions about the documents you need.
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