The short answer
An MVR, PSP report and Clearinghouse query answer different questions. Build the hiring checklist around the required purpose and permissions for each source.
MVR: the state driving record
The annual inquiry and review requirements for covered drivers appear in 49 CFR 391.25. Identify the relevant licensing state, record date, reviewer and documented follow-up.
PSP: federal pre-employment safety history
FMCSA describes PSP information as five years of crash data and three years of inspection data. Use the current program terms and required authorization for a permitted pre-employment request; it is not a substitute for all other hiring checks.
Clearinghouse: drug and alcohol program information
The Clearinghouse contains covered drug/alcohol violation and return-to-duty information. Follow its current query, consent and user-role instructions for the requested function.
What to prepare
- Hiring stage and intended use of each report.
- Driver identity and licensing-state information through a controlled process.
- Required authorizations and applicable query consent.
- Who reviews each result and documents the next action.
What can delay or complicate the work
- Calling every report a background check without defining the source.
- Reusing a report for an unauthorized purpose.
- Receiving results without documenting the response.
A practical review sequence
- Identify the exact request, entity and period.
- Compare available records and list missing facts.
- Agree on the supported work, permissions, provider steps and fees.
- Retain completion evidence and unresolved follow-up.
SafePass’s role
SafePass can review a request and scope supported administrative preparation, record organization or provider coordination. Availability is confirmed for the service and jurisdiction. The employer, qualified provider and responsible agency retain their own decisions and duties.
Frequently asked questions
Does one clean report complete hiring?
No. Each source addresses a different part of the applicable process.
Does PSP monitoring replace annual MVR work?
No. PSP pre-employment information is different from the annual record inquiry and review.
Can the results be sent through the public inquiry form?
No. Begin with the service request and agree on the record-handling process.
Official sources
Sources checked October 22, 2026. Check current agency notices before acting.