Federal law requires that Driver Qualification Files (DQFs) are kept on all drivers operating CMVs in interstate commerce and that weigh 10,001 or more pounds, transport hazardous materials or carry 10 or more passengers. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s (FMCSA) regulation 391 outlines the minimum qualifications for commercial motor vehicle drivers to help ensure all federally-regulated drivers are qualified to be on the road based on their physical health, professional experience, and motor vehicle record (MVR). Each DQF must include: application for employment, MVR/Annual review of driving record, annual list of violations, road test certificate, medical examination certificate, along with any exemptions/waivers, and a skill performance evaluation certificate application (for drivers with missing or impaired limbs and valid for two years).
