Driver Qualification File (DQF)
FMCSA-compliant Driver Qualification Files — compiled and audit-ready.
Who Needs This?
About This Service
FMCSA regulations under 49 CFR Part 391 require motor carriers to maintain a Driver Qualification File (DQ File) for each commercial driver. These files must be kept current and be immediately available during DOT audits and roadside inspections.
**Who Is Required to Maintain DQ Files** Every motor carrier that employs commercial drivers operating vehicles that require a CDL or vehicles over 10,001 lbs GVWR in interstate commerce. There are no fleet size exceptions — even owner-operators hiring a single driver must maintain a compliant DQ File.
**Required Contents**
- Commercial driver employment application
- Motor Vehicle Record (MVR) — obtained at hire and annually thereafter
- Road test certificate (or equivalent)
- Medical examiner's certificate (current)
- Annual driving record review
- Background check documentation
**Deadlines & Maintenance** DQ Files must be established before a driver operates a commercial vehicle. Annual MVR reviews are required. Active driver files must be kept for the duration of employment plus 3 years after departure.
**Process** The driver completes an online intake form, after which a background report is run and the MVR is pulled. The complete, compiled DQ File is delivered — audit-ready.
Incomplete or missing DQ File components are a serious regulatory violation and can result in significant penalties and driver out-of-service orders during DOT audits.
Filing Process
Driver is sent a secure online intake form to complete
Background check is run and Motor Vehicle Record (MVR) is obtained
Complete DQ File is compiled per 49 CFR Part 391 requirements
Finalized file is delivered to the carrier — audit-ready