CDL Record Keeping

 Posted on April 03, 2017 in Traffic Violations

A lot goes into attaining and maintaining a commercial driver’s license (CDL). Of course, there are the rigorous education and examinations in addition to medical and background qualifications just to earn the licensure, but your work is incomplete. It is imperative that you follow through with multiple requirements to remain in good standing to maintain your licensure as well as avoid traffic violations. In addition to an impeccable driving record, you must also retain proper records to avoid losing the license.

What Records are Necessary for Employers?

Requirements for CDL regulations are controlled federally by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). Each state can vary through the application process but must maintain the standards and regulations set forth at the federal level. Each document has a required retention period of three years or more. By law, CDL employers must retain the following records for each employee and have them available upon request within 48 hours:

• Driver application,
• Motor vehicle report from the date of hire,
• Road test or certificate with copy of CDL,
• Safety performance history,
• Previous employer checks,
• Annual list of violations, and
• Medical examiner’s certificate.

What Are Driver’s Required to Carry?

At a roadside inspection, proper records must also be readily available. If the originals are immediately accessible, photocopies are accepted. The Driver Vehicle Inspection Reports must be prepared daily and must be turned in at their return to their home location. These records have a variety of information that must be accessible if requested of the employer. Also, driver’s must keep the following records with them at all times to pass roadside inspections and weigh stations:

• Certifications,
• Insurance paperwork for both cab and trailer,
• Current inspection documentation,
• Cab card,
• Weight and tax identifier,
• Various permits for states you will be working in,
• International Fuel Tax Agreement.

Ticketed?

If you have been ticketed for not having the proper documentation available at a weigh station or a roadside inspection, a conviction can potentially cost you your career. It is important to maintain adequate records to avoid an infraction. If you have any questions about the requirements, contact your employer or a knowledgeable attorney. If you would like to discuss the issue with a Stamford, CT traffic attorney, contact the Law Offices of Daniel P. Weiner today by calling 203-348-5846 to schedule your free initial consultation.

Sources:

http://www.ct.gov/dmv/lib/dmv/20/29/cdl_manual_for_test_on_or_after_5-3-2016.pdf

http://www.ct.gov/dmv/cwp/view.asp?a=805&q=574844

http://www.dmv.org/cdl-federal-requirements.php