The shortest answer is yes. Your driving record – in your personal vehicle as well as commercial vehicles – can affect whether or not you get a commercial driver’s license. And if you do get a license, a bad driving record can negatively affect your job search.
The Pre-Employment Screening Program (PSP) is a system that was created by the FMCSA to increase the safety of drivers and carriers by making information on drivers accessible electronically. When you apply for a job, a carrier (with your consent) will have access to your safety history, including crash data for the past five years and roadside violations for the past three years. So it’s important to make sure it’s accurate and your record is good!
If you’ve had a ticket in the past, it doesn’t necessarily mean you can’t get a job, but the severity of the offense and the frequency of your violations have a lot to do with how many employers will hire you. Additionally, if you’re considered a risky or reckless driver, you may be unable to qualify for insurance on your commercial vehicle.
The type of ticket you receive makes a difference in how much your career will be affected. Some offenses automatically cause you to lose your license and prevent you from ever applying for one again. These include: operating a motor vehicle with a blood-alcohol lever over the legal limit, committing manslaughter with a vehicle, leaving the scene of an accident, and using a vehicle in the commission of a felony. These offenses count against you whether they are committed in your personal or commercial vehicle.
Other less serious offenses may not cause you to lose your license, but if you receive multiple tickets, even for minor offenses, you may face similar consequences.
When you drive for a living, you simply can’t afford to take chances with your driving record. Taking the proper steps to protect it will save you money and help make sure you don’t lose valuable job opportunities. We can help – no matter where you live, no matter where you got a ticket. Call us today and let us put more than 25 years of experience to work for you.