CDL Drivers Encouraged to Access their own PSP Record
One of the many developments in the trucking industry this year is the new Pre-employment Screening Program, or PSP.
This national-level program, which was launched in May 2010, allows employers access to prospective drivers’ roadside inspection history – information from the Motor Carrier Management Information System (MCMIS) that’s not available on a Motor Vehicle Record (MVR).
A PSP record contains up to five years of driver crash data and three years of inspection data, regardless of the state or jurisdiction. Access to this information can help employers review the crash and serious safety violation histories of prospective drivers as part of the hiring process. The new program is voluntary, and a carrier must obtain the driver’s written consent to access their PSP record.
Prospective employers aren’t the only ones who have access to this data, though – drivers are able to see their own records as well. There’s no registration or subscription fee for individual drivers, but there is a $10 charge to retrieve their PSP record. To access your PSP, go to http://www.psp.fmcsa.dot.gov. This site also includes a list of frequently asked questions.
Drivers are encouraged to look at their records to ensure accuracy. Incorrect information can be challenged through the FMCSA’s DataQs system: https://dataqs.fmcsa.dot.gov/login.asp.
It’s only a matter of time before the PSP record becomes a necessary part of every company’s hiring process. Until then, drivers who run their own record and share it with potential employers could be in a better position to negotiate a potential job opportunity. It will go a long way in helping them to “stand out”, especially if the PSP record is free from any serious safety violations.
Driving Ambition is a premier CDL truck driver staffing company serving Indiana, Ohio, Kentucky, and Tennessee. Since 2001, we have specialized in matching safe, experienced CDL drivers for our customers and great job opportunities for our professional truck drivers.
Our commitment to safety and building solid working relationships with both customers and CDL drivers has allowed us to earn an unparalleled reputation with our Proven Drivers and Exceptional Service.