Would you hire someone who has a lot of speeding violations? Or what about a history of at-fault accidents? A candidate's motor vehicle and DMV history provides good insight in to the type of employee they will be. For a job that requires frequent driving, deliveries, or use of company vehicles, it is important to check driving records as a normal part of the hiring process. Even if a position does not require extensive traveling, a person's habits on the road translate into their on the job habits.

What You Learn About A Potential Employee When You Check Driving Records

A clean DMV history is essential for job duties that include operating motor vehicles, ranging from school buses to delivery vans to an ambulance and everything in between. Obviously, the details of a DMV record will help paint a picture about how a particular person handles their vehicles on the road. Speeding tickets show a certain lack of patience, accidents can be signs of negligent behavior, and DUI citations are typically a massive red flag. When an employee is accountable for the safety and well being of transported passengers, they have to have a proven track record of responsible driving.

Yet, these reports provide more than just facts on a person's driving habits. A candidate who has many speeding tickets might be late to work often, requiring them to take a chance on speeding. A number of at-fault accidents might suggest a candidate has a disregard for following the rules of the road or doesn't pay attention to details.

When it comes to deriving a candidate's personality from their records, past violations are only a part of the picture. Talk to the candidate about the circumstances of those accidents or tickets. Overall, the record itself and the interview process will help paint a more complete picture of a candidate's personality and work habits.

Check A Driving Record And Save On Insurance Premiums

Every employee has to be insured to drive a company vehicle; only some companies rely on the individual's auto insurance. In many cases, individual insurance would not fulfill the needs of a company with assets to protect. An employment background check on DMV histories will help reveal the cost of insuring a particular driver. It is important to set clear guidelines on how many accidents or tickets are too many.

Perform A Check On Driving Records For Current Employees

There are many instances where a second or even periodic screen on DMV histories can help evaluate current employees. A good time to recheck an employee's driving record would be at the end of a probationary period or if they have an on-the-job or off-the-job-accident. It can also be a smart move to do periodic checks to continue screening employees to ensure they are doing what’s expected of them or to offer incentives and bonuses to safe drivers.

Overall, a query on a motor vehicles history as part of an employment background check helps hiring managers to understand potential candidates' driving and working habits.