Queries are used to get background information on a driver’s drug violation record from the Clearinghouse. There are Two types of queries: Limited and Full.
- Limited queries check if a driver can be found in the Clearinghouse. It also describes if a driver is allowed to drive commercial vehicles.
- Full Queries reveal details on any existing violation reported in the Clearinghouse. It also describes if a driver has completed the return to duty process. Full queries will require consent from the driver.
When do I run Queries? Queries in the FMCSA Clearinghouse should be conducted before hiring a new driver and at least once annually for all currently employed drivers with safety-sensitive duties. They are called Pre-Employment Queries and Annual Queries:
- Pre-Employment queries: Before offering a position that involves safety-sensitive functions like operating a commercial vehicle that are used to move passengers or goods, employers must run a full query in the Clearinghouse to check for any drug and alcohol violations. A driver’s consent is required for a full query, and if refused, they cannot be hired for such duties.
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Annual queries: Employers must perform a limited query for every driver in their safety-sensitive workforce at least once a year. This ensures there are no new violations that would make the driver ineligible for safety-sensitive work. If a Limited queries requires consent from a driver, it can be obtained from him/her; this is required to complete the query process.
IPS can run Queries for you. For more information, please contact IPS Drug Testing at https://www.ipsdrugtesting.com/contact-us