The Guide to the FMCSA Clearinghouse
If you are operating a CDL-class commercial vehicle, then the Clearinghouse is something you will have to be familiar with.
The FMCSA Clearinghouse is a critical component of the regulatory framework governing CMV drivers in the United States.
What is the FMCSA Clearinghouse?
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) Clearinghouse was established to enhance road safety by identifying and addressing substance abuse issues among commercial motor vehicle (CMV) drivers. It’s a comprehensive database for employers, drivers, and other stakeholders. It was launched on January 6, 2020, as part of the FMCSA’s efforts to improve safety on the nation’s highways. It provides real-time access to critical information, helping employers make informed hiring decisions and ensuring that drivers with drug and alcohol violations receive the necessary follow-up testing and rehabilitation.
Who Needs the Clearinghouse?
- Employers: Employers of CMV drivers are required to use the Clearinghouse for various purposes, including conducting pre-employment queries, annual checks, and conducting queries following a reportable accident. This helps employers assess the eligibility of potential hires and monitor the compliance of current drivers.
- Drivers: CMV drivers must also register with the Clearinghouse to provide electronic consent for their current and prospective employers to access their drug and alcohol violation history. Drivers are also notified when information about them is added, modified, or removed from the Clearinghouse.
- Medical Review Officers (MROs) and Substance Abuse Professionals (SAPs): MROs and SAPs play crucial roles in this process. MROs report verified positive drug test results, while SAPs report successful completion of the return-to-duty process by drivers.
How to Register for the Clearinghouse:
- Employers: Employers need to register for an account on the Clearinghouse website. During registration, they will be required to provide information about their company and designate a consortia/third-party administrator (C/TPA) if applicable. Employers must also purchase query plans based on their anticipated usage. Our company, FCCR, is a registered C/TPA with the FMCSA.
- Drivers: CMV drivers must create an account on the Clearinghouse website and provide their consent for employers to access their information. Drivers are also responsible for monitoring their records for accuracy.
- Service Agents: Service agents, such as consortia/third-party administrators, can also register and assist employers in managing their compliance responsibilities.
Key Features and Functions:
- Querying: Employers are required to conduct pre-employment queries, annual queries, and queries following a reportable accident. These queries provide real-time information on a driver’s drug and alcohol violation history.
- Reporting: Medical review officers, substance abuse professionals, and employers report specific information about drug and alcohol violations, return-to-duty status, and other relevant details.
- Notifications: The Clearinghouse notifies drivers when information is added, modified, or removed from their records. This transparency ensures that drivers are aware of the information being shared about them.
If you need help getting registered in the FMCSA Clearinghouse or have any further questions, contact FCCR at 771-888-3187.
We are here to help.
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