What DOT files do you need to keep and for how long? The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires the companies they regulate to keep records to document their compliance with safety regulations. This documentation must be saved for varying lengths of time as established by the related regulations. During safety audits and DOT compliance reviews, auditors will carefully comb through your DOT records. By purging unnecessary records and properly organizing your files, you will simplify and streamline the review process — which can go a long way with a DOT officer. Below, we cover some of the most important DOT record-keeping requirements to help companies organize and maintain their files regularly. How Long to Keep DOT Records The following is a quick review of record-retention requirements in a few key DOT compliance areas. DOT Drug & Alcohol Testing Records Remember all DOT drug and alcohol test (DAT) records must be maintained in a secure location with controlled access. This means all DAT records must be kept in a separate file under lock and key; they should not be stored with personnel files. Because the rules make no exceptions for one-driver companies, we advise owner-operators to maintain their DAT files separately as well. The following records must be maintained for at least five years: Alcohol test results indicating a BAC of 0.02 or greater Verified positive controlled substances test results Refusal-to-test documentation Substance Abuse Professional (SAP) evaluation reports Copy of annual calendar year summary if required by 49 CFR 382.403 The following records must be maintained for at least two years: Random selections Reasonable-suspicion testing documentation Medical evaluations for "shy lung" and "shy bladder" situations The following records must be maintained for at least one year: Negative and canceled drug test results Alcohol test results with a BAC below 0.02 Additional record retention requirements: The employer’s policy, driver’s signed receipt, and all records related to employer and supervisor education and training must be retained while the individual performs safety-sensitive and/or supervisory functions and for two years thereafter. DOT Driver Qualification Files Both the Driver Qualification and Safety Performance History Files must be retained for as long as the safety-sensitive individual is employed by the company, and for three years thereafter. The following documentation may be discarded from the Driver Qualification File three years from the date of execution: Annual List of Violations Annual Inquiry to State Agencies Annual Review of Driving Record Medical Examiner’s Certificate Safety Performance Evaluation Certificate (if applicable) DOT Hours-of-Service Records The following hours-of-service records must be maintained for six months: Drivers' records of duty status (RODS) A backup copy of ELD records on a separate device from which the original is stored Supporting documents, such as: Dispatch records Receipts Statements Bills of lading Weight station tickets Phone bill statements If your drivers operate strictly on short-haul runs, you are required to document the time your drivers clock in and out, the total time worked during the current period, and the total time worked during the previous seven days. DOT Vehicle Maintenance Records For every vehicle in their control for 30 days or more, DOT-regulated companies must retain the following records for one year at the location where the vehicle is garaged and for six months after the vehicle leaves the company’s control: Identifying information (company number, make, serial number, and tire size) Inspection schedule, including type and date Other vehicle maintenance recordkeeping requirements: Post-trip inspection reports must be retained for at least three months from the report date Periodic inspection report (or copy) must be retained for 14 months from the report date Evidence of an inspector’s qualifications for one year after the inspector ceases to perform inspections for the company Use an Organized DOT Recordkeeping System from the Start Remember, it's easier to create a clean, organized DOT record-keeping system from the very beginning. Too much time can be wasted trying to use or fix a recordkeeping system that's barely keeping up with the latest federal regulations. Setting up (or switching) your DOT recordkeeping system in a secure, 100% online platform is the best way to ensure all your DOT files are organized and kept up to date according to FMCSA requirements. Ready to make your recordkeeping easier? You don't have to go very far. Foley's DOT recordkeeping experts are here to help you transfer your files to our platform and help ensure you're audit-ready every day. Get a free demo of our DOT recordkeeping software now by clicking here. Or, fill out the form below and one of our DOT compliance specialists will reach out to you shortly.

MVR monitoring, DOT drug testing, and DOT driver file management programs all help to prevent the most common FMCSA violations. According to data from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s (FMCSA) safety investigation summary report, 94% of safety investigations performed this year have resulted in violations. The top five acute violations (severe enough that they require immediate corrective action) for 2024 are as follows: Allowing a driver to operate with a suspended or revoked CDL Failing to implement an alcohol and/or drug testing program Failing to randomly test for drugs and/or alcohol Using a driver who has tested positive for a drug Allowing a driver with more than one CDL to drive a CMV Committing any of these violations can mean paying significant fines, and your Compliance, Safety, and Accountability (CSA) scores can take a hit. See why these scores hold so much weight in our related blog article: CSA Scores: What They Are & Why They Matter The key to remaining compliant and avoiding violations is always to be audit-ready. This is more important than ever, as offsite audits have increased by 400% over the past few years. Your chances of being called for a safety investigation are likely higher than ever. While your goal should be to maintain a completely violation-free record, below are some steps you can take to avoid the most common acute violations of 2024. #1. Allowing a driver to operate with a suspended or revoked CDL This has been the top acute FMCSA violation for the last six years, and it was cited by FMCSA officers 1,366 times in 2024. You may be thinking, why would anyone take the risk of letting a driver with a compromised CDL continue to drive for them? Sometimes CDL suspensions or revocations occur without employers knowing — and oftentimes, it’s far too late when they find out. Even though companies like yours are required to run annual motor vehicle record (MVR) checks on drivers, it’s a better idea to regularly monitor your drivers’ records with an automated MVR monitoring program so suspensions or revocations like this don’t pop up unexpectedly. Foley’s MVR Monitor constantly keeps track of your drivers’ records and instantly alerts you when violations are detected. That way, you don’t end up committing the above violation and putting yourself at risk of paying hefty fines or being put out of service. #2. Failing to implement an alcohol and/or drug testing program #3. Failing to randomly test for drugs and/or alcohol #4. Using a driver who has tested positive for a drug These have all been top acute violations for several years, together accounting for over 37% of all acute violations so far this year. Fines for non-compliant drug testing programs average more than $8,000. To meet federal regulations, employers must perform pre-employment drug tests, random tests, and post-accident, reasonable suspicion, and follow-up tests. A compliant DOT drug and alcohol testing program can manage these tests and ensure they’re scheduled when needed. You won’t have to worry about meeting compliance requirements or ensuring the safety of your drivers and other drivers on the road. It's also a good idea to invest in a DOT drug testing program ahead of potential oral fluid drug test changes. The FMCSA hasn't officially announced anything, but it could soon be a comparable option to the current urine drug test requirement. What if one of your drivers tests positive for drugs or alcohol? Then they must be removed from safety-sensitive duties immediately. Failure to do so could endanger them, other motorists, and your business, leaving you with hefty fines to pay. It’s not worth the risk. #5. Allowing a driver with more than one CDL to drive a CMV This may not seem like a big deal, but it is in the eyes of the FMCSA. In September, a motor carrier based in North Carolina was fined $4,300 for committing this violation. Although the state responsible for issuing a driver’s CDL is supposed to perform a check of the Commercial Driver’s License Information System (CDLIS) before issuing the new license to ensure that they don’t hold licenses elsewhere, compliance with this can vary from state to state, and the resulting reposts don’t always provide a crystal-clear look into a driver’s licensing history. Related Foley Article: Why You Should be Rechecking Drivers’ CDLIS Records To protect yourself, it’s best to perform pre-employment checks of the CDLIS yourself — and then regularly for all employees. Partnering with a DOT background check partner can help ensure that your drivers are compliant without adding yet another administrative duty to your long list of responsibilities. BONUS! #6. Keeping fraudulent DOT records Organized and up-to-date DOT recordkeeping is a must — and now with the shift to offsite audits, officers may expect companies like yours to have a digital recordkeeping system in place. No matter how much of a pinch you may find yourself in, if you’re contacted for an offsite audit and you’re nowhere near prepared to present your compliance files, do not try to make up for it by falsifying them. It WILL catch up with you! Instead, stay diligent when it comes to maintaining your driver qualification files and documenting all vehicle inspections and maintenance. If it all feels like too much — and trust us, we get it — consider partnering with a company like Foley that manages and updates many of your records for you to help you remain compliant. Partner with Foley to Avoid the Top FMCSA Audit Violations Keeping up with ever-changing FMCSA regulations and making sure your company is audit-ready can be tough on your own. The last thing you need is an audit that results in violations, which can negatively impact your CSA score, empty your wallet, and tarnish your hard-earned business reputation! The violations listed above are just some of the many offenses that motor carriers can be guilty of. But you don’t have to follow the same path, especially when you have Foley to back you up. Foley’s MVR Monitor, DOT drug and alcohol testing, and DOT background check programs all work together to help keep you compliant. We can also manage your driver qualification files to keep your DOT recordkeeping on track. You can find out how prepared your company is for a compliance review by taking our audit risk quiz! See how easy it can be to get out of your next audit violation-free. Fill out the form below or request a FREE Foley software demo today!

Foley can help you take care of annual FMCSA Clearinghouse queries, UCR filings, and MVR checks for your business. The end of 2024 is right around the corner. The holiday season is officially here, and so is the hustle and bustle that comes with it.

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration has announced that five electronic logging devices — Unione; COLUMBUS; and three models of MASTERELD: MELD02, MELD03, and MELD04 — have been removed from its Registered Devices list this month.

Are you prepared to follow the 2025 DOT drug testing requirements? Foley can help ensure you know if your drivers test positive for any of the substances below. The FMCSA Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse is here to stay, and unfortunately, so are the violations reported to it.

Time is running out to conduct your annual DOT vehicle inspections in 2024. Commercial motor vehicles (CMVs) and their components must be inspected every 12 months according to FMCSA regulations. Not only does this ensure your CMVs are safe to drive, but it also helps improve your chances of passing a DOT roadside inspection.

What is a DOT physical? What will make drivers fail a DOT physical? Get the answers to popular DOT physical questions like these. If you want to drive large commercial vehicles for a living you’ll need a CDL (commercial driver’s license) and a valid DOT medical card. This card can only be obtained once you have successfully passed a DOT physical, which you’ll need to have again every 1-2 years for the duration of your career. Finally, A Better Way to Manage DOT Physicals While the process of getting your DOT physical and medical card is straightforward, many people feel confused about the requirements they have to meet to pass. Below, we’ll talk you through each aspect of the physical, what standards you need to meet to pass, and links to further resources where you can find out more about the requirements for each element of the DOT medical exam. What is a DOT physical? The DOT (Department of Transportation) physical is a medical examination you must undergo before being permitted to drive commercial vehicles for a living. This physical ensures you are fit enough to meet the demands of your job and can operate large vehicles or vehicles with passengers without putting yourself or anyone else at risk. Do I need a DOT physical? You are required to have a DOT physical exam if: You transport hazardous materials You operate a vehicle that carries more than 15 people You are paid to operate a vehicle that carries more than 8 people You operate a vehicle with a gross combined weight of more than 10,000lbs What does the physical exam consist of? The DOT exam will include the following: Physical examination - The doctor will check your eyes, ears, mouth, throat, heart, lungs, abdomen, spine, extremities, and neurological system for signs of any potential problems, impairments, or injuries. Vision test - While you don't need perfect 20/20 vision to pass a DOT physical, you will need to have a minimum 20/40 visual acuity in both of your eyes, even with contact lenses or glasses. You will also need a minimum peripheral vision of 70" in both of your eyes. Hearing test - You must be able to hear a "forced whisper" from five feet away, with or without hearing aids. Blood pressure check - Many people wonder, "Can you pass a DOT physical with high blood pressure?" The answer is yes, but only if it is below a certain limit. You can find out the current limitations in this Foley blog article. Urine test - While many assume the urine test in a DOT physical is a drug test, it doesn't check for drug use. The DOT physical urine test is simply to look for underlying conditions, such as diabetes. Sleep apnea test - If you report having symptoms such as drowsiness during the day, headaches in the morning, gasping while sleeping, or heavy snoring, you may need to undergo a sleep apnea test. As well as a range of other health indicators that can indicate that there is a problem that may put you at risk while operating a commercial vehicle. How do I prepare for a DOT physical? If you’re fit and in good health, there’s very little you need to do to prepare. The DOT exam is simply a check-up by a doctor to ensure you are fit enough to operate such a large vehicle. If you’re overweight, are recovering from a bigger health issue, or are having a serious health issue managed by a doctor, you may want to make additional preparations. Whether or not you need to make any changes before your CDL DOT physical or bring anything with you will depend on your circumstances and current level of health. If you are currently managing any health issues, make sure your prescriptions and medications are up to date, you’ve recently had a vision test and have the right corrective eyewear, and the same for your hearing if you suffer from hearing loss. It’s good practice for anyone getting ready for their DOT physical to cut back on processed foods, alcohol, and smoking to ensure they’re in good health at the time of their physical.NEW CSA Score Webinar - Reserve Your Spot Now! What do I need to bring? You need to bring: Your medical records, if your exam is being carried out by a new doctor Medical records from any specialists you see, such as a sleep apnea specialist Your most recent laboratory reports if you have diabetes or a similar condition Your glasses, contact lenses, or hearing aids if you require them to drive A list of any prescription medication you take, including what dose you take and when You may also want to bring the DOT physical medical examination report form with you so you can fill it out ahead of time at home. You can find that form here and in the forms section at the end of this article. What are the DOT physical requirements? Vision Requirements To pass the vision test, you need to have 20/40 vision in each eye either with or without glasses, a field of vision of 70 degrees or more in each eye, and be able to differentiate between red, green, and amber. If you do not meet these standards but meet all other standards of the DOT Physical, you may be able to apply for an exemption. To find out more about the DOT physical eye exam, see our guide here. Hearing Requirements To pass your hearing test, you must be able to hear a harsh whisper in your best ear, at no less than 5 feet, with or without a hearing aid. If you fail this basic hearing test, you’ll be referred for an audiometry test which will further determine if you are safe to drive. In most cases, you’ll be able to get a hearing correction device and then pass your DOT physical. If you need a hearing aid, you must wear it at all times while driving. You’ll only fail the hearing test if you are completely deaf and cannot pass the whisper test even with hearing aids. Blood Pressure Requirements High blood pressure is an extremely common health problem, and the DOT medical exam uses it as a key health indicator. If your blood pressure is 140/90 or below, you’ll pass the DOT physical blood pressure requirements with flying colors. Between 140/90 and 179/109, you may need to have a medical exam more frequently or be given a temporary medical card and be asked to reduce your blood pressure within a 3-month period. For more information, see our dedicated guide here. What medical conditions can impact your ability to pass a DOT physical? There are a handful of health issues that are DOT physical disqualifying conditions, meaning that if they are out of control or too severe for you to operate a large commercial vehicle safely, you will not be able to pass the DOT physical. These conditions are: Diabetes Hernias High BMI (Obesity) Sleep Apnea Find out more about how to pass the DOT physical with a medical condition here, or click the links above to learn more about the individual conditions and their physical requirements. What do they do in a DOT physical? Your medical examiner will first talk through your medical history with you and any ongoing treatment you have. They’ll then take your height and weight, so they can calculate your BMI, and check your blood pressure, vision, and hearing. They’ll do a general assessment of your physical health, look at your skin, check your reflexes, and examine you for hernias. You’ll also submit a urine sample that will be analyzed to calculate your blood sugar levels and a few other health markers. In most cases, the DOT exam will end there and you’ll get your medical certificate. However, if your medical examiner found something they believe warrants further testing, or if the requirements of the physical demand it, you may be referred on for another test before you can get your certificate. How much does a DOT physical cost? The DOT physical price varies depending on where you get it, and if you are fronting the cost, or if the company you work for will cover part or all of the cost. Generally, the physical costs $85 – $150. Related: Can I Get a DOT Physical in Any State? Can I get a free DOT physical? Many companies pay for their drivers’ DOT physicals, so if you’re about to move to a new company, ask them if they will cover the costs of your medical exam. Related: Can Chiropractors and Other Doctors do DOT Physicals? Do DOT physicals include a drug test? The DOT physical does not specifically test for drugs. The urine sample you give as a part of your DOT physical checks your blood sugar levels. Some employers will require you to submit a urine sample for a DOT drug test, but the DOT physical itself will not look for legal or illegal substances. For more information on how your drug and medication use will affect your ability to pass the DOT physical, click here. What will make you fail a DOT physical? If you have extremely high blood pressure, high blood sugar, an untreated hernia, or uncorrected vision or hearing, you may fail the DOT physical. What happens if you fail the DOT physical? Failing your medical exam is never good news, but it’s also rarely the end of your driving career. In most cases, failing your physical simply means you need to make some lifestyle changes and improve your health so you can safely get back on the open road. Remember that the DOT physical isn’t trying to catch you out – it looks at your overall well-being and considers if you may have a major health episode in the near future that would jeopardize the safety of yourself and others. If you fail a DOT physical, work with your doctor to get your health back on track so you can get back on the road. For more information on what happens if you fail a DOT Physical, click here. Where can I find the DOT physical forms? You need to fill out a medical examination report before or when you start your physical. Many people find that having time to think through their answers makes the process of getting their DOT medical exam less stressful, so you can find the form and fill it out ahead of time here. You can also find an example of the medical examiner’s handbook here. Generally, the DOT physical is straightforward and nothing to worry about. The medical examiner merely needs to ensure you are fit and healthy enough to operate a large commercial vehicle. We have plenty of information for each medical condition and how they affect your ability to pass the DOT physical, so if you have any concerns, make sure you read those guides to put your mind at ease. Where can I get a DOT physical? Locating a certified medical examiner is easy with Foley's Collection Site Locator. Simply enter your zip code and click the "DOT Physical" button to solve the DOT physical near me search. Links to Related Articles in the DOT Physical Series Do you still have questions about DOT physicals? Check out these Foley blog articles addressing specific components of the DOT physical exam: DOT Physicals: Can Chiropractors and Other Doctors do DOT Physicals? DOT Physicals: Vision Requirements for the Eye Exam DOT Physicals: Can You Pass with a High BMI or While Overweight? DOT Physicals: Can I Get a DOT Physical in Any State? DOT Physicals: Can You Pass with a Hernia? DOT Physicals: Will I Pass with Diabetes? DOT Physical Blood Pressure: Requirements & Tips for Passing DOT Physicals: Can I Pass With Sleep Apnea? DOT Physicals: What if I have a Medical Condition? DOT Physicals: Do They Include a Drug Test? How to Prepare for Your DOT Physical DOT Physicals: What Happens When You Fail? Fail a DOT Physical? You Have a Right to a Second Opinion DOT Physicals: Understanding Medical Variances

Does your business require a UCR registration? Keep reading to learn what you need to know about the 2025 UCR filing. If you’re a motor carrier and you don’t currently have a Unified Carrier Registration (UCR), it’s important to get one right away. Unregistered motor carriers who cross state lines without one could be fined and have their trucks pulled off the road — meaning resources, time, and money can all be wasted. But what if you’re not sure your business is subject to UCR requirements? Now that the UCR filing period is officially open, the compliance specialists at Foley are ready to answer all your UCR-related questions. In this article, we’ll cover … What a UCR registration is When the 2025 UCR is due When UCR enforcement begins Who needs UCR registration How much a UCR registration costs The consequences of not completing your UCR filing If you can file multiple UCRs at once Who can help you with UCR filing What is a UCR registration? UCR stands for Unified Carrier Registration. It is a federally mandated system for registering operators of commercial motor vehicles (CMVs) in North America. Whether you operate CMVs in two states or twenty, you are required to complete your UCR filing every year, as long as you meet the requirements detailed below. When is this year’s UCR due? This annual UCR filing must be renewed by December 31st each year. Registration for the upcoming year began on October 1st, giving motor carriers over two months to file before the end of the year. When does UCR enforcement begin? According to UCR Board policy, enforcement for the 2025 registration year is recommended to begin on January 1st, 2025. But this doesn’t mean you should wait until the last minute. The sooner you file, the more prepared you’ll be for a successful, compliant year. Foley can take care of your UCR filing for you, so there’s no reason to put it off any longer! Who needs a UCR registration? Any motor carrier who drives a commercial vehicle carrying cargo over state or international lines must file an annual UCR. Individuals and companies who arrange the shipment of goods, such as brokers, freight forwarders, and leasing companies are also subject to the UCR fee. Specifically, any business that operates CMVs meeting the following thresholds is required to file: Has a gross vehicle weight (GVW) of over 10,000 pounds, or Carries placarded amounts of hazardous materials, or Transports more than 10 passengers (including driver) Still not sure if you need a UCR? The Unified Carrier Registration has a convenient questionnaire to help you determine if you must file. How much do UCRs cost? For motor carriers, the cost of the UCR filing fee is dependent on the total number of vehicles in a fleet. Brokers and leasing companies pay the lowest fee to register. You can see how fees are distributed based on this information in the chart on the bottom of this page. What happens if I don’t file my UCR registration? If you don’t pay for the UCR, and you are caught driving over state lines, enforcement officials could detain your vehicles. Plus, you could be required to pay additional fines and penalties. Depending on which state you’re from, the fine could be anywhere from $100 to $5000 for first-time offenders. What if my state doesn’t participate? Do I need a UCR registration in Florida? Do I need a UCR registration in Maryland? Do I need a UCR registration in Arizona? Currently, 41 states in the U.S. are participating in the UCR program. The following states are not participating: Arizona Florida Hawaii Maryland Nevada New Jersey Oregon Vermont Wyoming District of Columbia If the state in which your business is located doesn’t participate in the UCR program, that doesn’t mean you’re off the hook. UCR enforcement starts January 1st. Have you filed your UCR yet? Any motor carrier who travels over state lines is required to purchase a UCR. If your business is in a state that doesn’t participate, you are required to purchase a UCR filing in the nearest participating state. Can I purchase multiple UCRs at once? Because the UCR system is based on a motor carrier’s unique DOT number, each business needs to file its UCR registration individually. If your business did not file a UCR for 2024 and it was in operation at any time during the year, however, you can file both your 2024 and 2025 UCR registrations at once to avoid additional fines and the risk of being put out of service. Trust Your DOT Compliance & UCR Registration Partner Now that you have the answers to the most common UCR questions, you should be able to determine if you need to file a UCR. We know you already have a lot on your plate with other annual DOT compliance matters. Foley can make the UCR filing process simple. Call us at (860) 530-6310 or click here to file your 2025 UCR registration with Foley now!

Hiring in 2025? Make sure you're hiring qualified drivers who have all the right licensure and endorsements to operate your company's vehicles. Whether you’re a seasoned trucker or you’re considering a new career in trucking, you know that earning your commercial driver’s license (CDL) is the first step toward a promising career as a truck driver. But did you know that a lack of endorsements or having restrictions on your license could be holding you back from various truck driving jobs? The demand for commercial truck drivers is at an all-time high. Having certain endorsements and removing said restrictions can enhance your chances of being hired by a great company where you want to build a lifelong career. License endorsements also allow you to transport special types of goods as opposed to simply running general freight. As you continue driving a commercial motor vehicle (CMV), you should continue to earn endorsements and have restrictions removed. CDL Classes Let’s start with the three different CDL classes you can earn before you can consider adding endorsements. Class A CDL This is the most commonly issued CDL. With a Class A CDL, you have the authority to operate a vehicle with a gross combination weight rating (GCWR) of 26,001 or more pounds, including a towed object/vehicle with a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) over 10,000 pounds. You can operate the following vehicles with a Class A CDL: Tractor-trailers and flatbeds Livestock carriers Tankers Truck and trailer combinations Tractor-trailer buses Semi-truck with flatbed trailer If you’ve earned the appropriate Class A endorsements, you can even be authorized to operate some Class B and Class C trucks. Class B CDL You can operate a vehicle at or over 26,001 in GCWR with a Class B commercial license. If you are using the vehicle for towing purposes, the GCWR cannot exceed 10,000 pounds. Vehicles you can drive with a Class B CDL include: Straight trucks Public transport and tourist passenger buses Segmented buses School buses Delivery service box trucks Dump trucks with small trailers Tractor-trailers Just like you’re allowed to operate different vehicles with a Class A CDL, you can operate some Class C vehicles with the right Class B endorsements. Class C CDL You must obtain a Class C CDL to drive a vehicle with a GVWR of less than 26,001 pounds, a vehicle towing another vehicle that has a GVWR that does not exceed 10,000 pounds, as well as a passenger vehicle with 16 (including the driver) or more people. You must also hold this CDL class to drive a truck carrying hazardous material (HAZMAT) under federal guidelines. With a Class C CDL (and the right endorsements), you can drive: Small trucks equipped to transport HAZMAT Passenger vans Small trucks towing trailers CDL Endorsements The CDL endorsements you hold determine the different types of CMVs you can operate and the freight you can haul within them. Earning each type of endorsement requires passing its corresponding test. Just like there are different CDL Classes between different states, there are also different endorsement requirements per state. How much do CDL endorsements cost? The price tag attached to most endorsement tests (except HAZMAT, which is more involved) varies by state, but it is relatively affordable. Holding more endorsements only makes you a more desirable hire and increases the likelihood of earning more money and being a successful driver. Once you earn additional endorsements, you need to remember to renew them when you renew your CDL to keep them valid. H Endorsement Also known as the HAZMAT endorsement, an H endorsement is required to operate a vehicle that contains hazardous materials. Applicable CDL classifications: Class A, B, and C Required testing: written knowledge test N Endorsement Drivers with an N CDL endorsement can drive tankers, or vehicles that transport liquids and gases. Applicable CDL classifications: Class A and B Required testing: written knowledge test P Endorsement If you’d like to operate a vehicle or bus that seats upwards of 16 people, you’ll need to earn your P (passenger) endorsement. To be a school bus driver, you will need to fill out separate forms, earn another endorsement in addition to the P endorsement, and pass a federal background check. Applicable CDL classifications: Class A, B, and C Required testing: written knowledge test and road skills test S Endorsement The S (school bus) endorsement is the second endorsement noted above that’s required to be a school bus driver. Applicable CDL classifications: Class A, B, and C Required testing: written knowledge test, road skills test, and background check T Endorsement Once you’ve earned your T endorsement, you’ll be able to haul double or triple trailers. Applicable CDL classifications: Class A Required testing: written knowledge test X Endorsement A combination endorsement by nature, the X endorsement permits you to transport HAZMAT within a tank. Applicable CDL classifications: Class A and B Required testing: written knowledge test CDL Restrictions In contrast to earning endorsements, you can also receive CDL restrictions during the testing portions of your trucking career. It’s best to avoid these as much as possible since they will limit the types of vehicles you can legally operate. The good news is, that most restrictions can be lifted by taking the right restorative actions, but the removal requirements do vary by state. Here are the seven most common CDL driving restrictions you can be marked with. E Restriction The type of transmission the CMV has during your road skill test determines if you’ll receive this restriction. If you complete the test operating a CMV with an automatic transmission, your CDL will be marked with an E restriction, and you will not be able to drive a CMV with a manual transmission. To remove it, you must re-take the road test driving a rig with a manual transmission. L Restriction Having an L restriction on your CDL means you cannot operate a vehicle with a full air brake system. You will receive an L restriction in one of two circumstances: by driving a CMV without a full air brake system, or by failing to pass the air brakes knowledge exam. To remove the restriction, you must pass all sections of the CDL exam relating to air brakes. M Restriction If you have a Class A CDL and passed your P or S endorsements with a Class B or C passenger vehicle, you’ll receive an M restriction on your license, and you’ll be excluded from operating any Class A passenger vehicles. Passing the skills test in a Class A passenger vehicle is required to remove the restriction. N Restriction Like the M restriction, if you have a Class B CDL and obtained your P or S endorsement in a Class C passenger vehicle, you’ll acquire an N restriction on your CDL and be prohibited from operating a Class B passenger vehicle. Removing it involves passing the skills test in a Class B passenger vehicle. O Restriction You will have an O restriction added to your license if you’re a Class A CDL driver and you took your road skill test in a vehicle that did not have a fifth-wheel connection, such as a gooseneck, ball and chain hook up, or pintle hook. From there, you will be able to operate only CMVs without a fifth-wheel connection. Passing the road skills test using a vehicle with a fifth-wheel connection will remove the restriction. V Restriction If you have a reported medical variance as defined by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), your CDL will have a V restriction on it. Medical variances are impairments that can present safety hazards while operating a vehicle. The most common medical variances are: Diabetes Seizures Hearing problems Eyesight impairment As long as your medical certificate states you have any of these conditions, the restriction will remain on your license; however, the FMCSA may provide you with an exemption. Z Restriction You are not authorized to operate a CMV with full air brakes if your license has a Z restriction placed on it. The Z restriction means you performed the road skills test with a vehicle that had a partial air system or hydraulic system. You will need to complete the driving test with a vehicle that has a full air brake system to remove the Z restriction. Be the Best CDL Driver You Can Be Moving forward with your career as a truck driver means knowing which types of vehicles you want to drive and how to legally do so, avoiding license restrictions as much as possible, and working toward the endorsements you can earn along the way. In today’s hot trucking industry, almost nothing can stop you from working for your ideal company and being a safe, successful driver!

Thu. December 26 | 2PM ET

This time of year, it’s easy to lose track of your DOT compliance requirements in the holiday hustle and bustle.

The FMCSA has been known for cracking down on companies that violate its strict federal regulations.

Co-Hosted with American Substance Abuse Professionals

The FMCSA’s seven Behavior Analysis and Safety Improvement Categories (BASICs) each have unique recordkeeping requirements.

One of the many requirements you need to fulfill as a trucking company is creating and maintaining DOT driver files.

A new phase of the FMCSA Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse is coming this year. It will bring new requirements for companies that rely on CDL drivers.

If you employ drivers to operate commercial vehicles, you must run specific background checks according to federal regulations.

Some of the most important matters to check off your DOT compliance to-do list when you’re starting a trucking company are your permits and registrations.

Commercial Auto Insurance Market Trends & Renewal Rate Savings Tips FEATURING:

When a commercial driver is enrolled in the DOT return-to-duty process, their employer must report specific information to the FMCSA Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse. Many employers will be enrolling prohibited CDL/CPL drivers in the RTD process now that the FMCSA Clearinghouse-II is in effect and revoking the commercial driving privileges of drivers with DOT drug and alcohol violations. In this guide, we walk you through the step-by-step process of all the RTD reporting requirements you must meet if your drivers have been impacted by the new Clearinghouse-II.

The 2025 Unified Carrier Registration (UCR) renewal window is now open.

Starting this year, State Driver Licensing Agencies (SDLAs) will revoke commercial driver’s licenses (CDLs) or commercial learner’s permits (CLPs) based on drivers' statuses in the FMCSA Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse.

When you run queries on your drivers in the FMCSA Clearinghouse, you may see many different statuses produced throughout the process. What are the statuses, what do they mean, and what actions do you need to take for each one?

Your Compliance, Safety, and Accountability (CSA) score is determined by how well your drivers and company represent DOT compliance and roadway safety.

The DOT Clearinghouse has been in effect since January 2020. You’d think by now that everyone would have it figured out, right?

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) is passing a new regulation in the Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse this year, known as the Clearinghouse-II.

Due to a new federal regulation coming into effect this year, State Driver Licensing Agencies (SDLAs) will revoke the commercial driver’s licenses (CDLs) or commercial learner’s permits (CLPs) depending on drivers’ statuses in the FMCSA Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse.

As a text messaging software solution provider, Avochato knows the power of instant communication. They needed the same advanced approach with their hiring process. Foley’s background screening software offered a better solution than their former impersonal, outdated provider.

In this customer video, Bob Hickey talks about how partnering with Foley has helped their business reduce their risk exposure when it comes to compliance and insurance.

Being new to the trucking industry can feel stressful. Especially when 90% of trucking companies fail in the first 12 months.

Conductor finds a nimble and progressive background check partner in Foley, plus a seamless applicant tracking system (ATS). With Greenhouse Software as their ATS, Conductor had already structured and streamlined their hiring process. But Conductor’s background check vendor (one of the largest in the US and arranged through their former parent company) couldn’t deliver the type of candidate experience that adhered to their strong company culture.

In this customer video, Diana Cooley talks about the benefits she has seen with Foley's Drug and Alcohol Testing, Clearinghouse, Audit Risk Monitor, and Customer Support.

Foley's User-Friendly Solution Helps PKS Achieve Total Compliance and Save Time PKS Concrete Pumping Services turned to Foley to streamline their onboarding and compliance processes. With Foley's user-friendly software, PKS achieved total compliance and saved their team hours each week. The software automated tasks such as drug and alcohol testing, driver file management, DOT physicals, and MVR monitoring, making the onboarding process 75% more efficient.

Streamlining Fleet Management and Improving Compliance: Pet Food Experts' Success with Foley Pet Food Experts, a family-owned distributor of pet food and supplies, faced challenges in managing their fleet of 95 drivers. They needed a cost-effective solution that offered more than just compliance and fleet management features.

Foley streamlined compliance and onboarding so AERO BridgeWorks is audit-ready. AERO BridgeWorks started with manual paper files and reviewing a driver file required the team to look through 3–4 separate locations. The team also needed help making sure they were DOT-compliant.

Torc Robotics will be the first company to use a profitable, scalable, commercialized Level 4 autonomous truck solution for over-the-road trucking applications. But don’t let the word “autonomous” fool you.

What gaps or inefficiencies are slowing down your hiring and onboarding processes? Take this quick quiz and find out.

Take our quick assessment to determine your audit risk – as well as what you can do to prepare.

Our quick quiz will walk you through your requirements to make sure you’re running a safe and compliant program.

How much could you save with an MVR Monitoring Program?

Learn what inspectors will be looking for during the CVSA Roadcheck – and whether your company is prepared.

Make sure your driver files are ready for an offsite audit and beyond with our quick compliance quiz.

Are you running risky background checks? Take our short quiz to find out!