Term
Driver qualification file
The file a US motor carrier must keep for each driver it employs, under 49 CFR 391.51.
VAULT 33|27 · Updated 12 November 2026 · 1 min read
What it means
Under 49 CFR 391.51, each motor carrier must maintain a driver qualification file for each driver it employs. It holds documents such as the employment application, motor vehicle records, medical certification and annual reviews, and is kept for the period of employment and three years after.
Why it matters for your business
A recruiting system that collects the right documents in the right order helps qualified drivers move to orientation faster, while the carrier's safety team keeps control of decisions.
Sources
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