Key points
- Drivers are one of the most important factors in commercial auto underwriting.
- Written eligibility standards, applied consistently, are better than informal judgment.
- Check MVRs before someone drives a company vehicle and periodically after.
For many fleets, the single most effective way to improve commercial auto results is to control who drives. That starts with a written standard.
Why it matters to underwriters
An underwriter pricing your fleet is pricing the people driving it. Insurance companies often have firm guidelines: drivers with certain violations, too many incidents in a period, or limited experience may be ineligible. When a driver doesn’t meet guidelines, the options may be to exclude the driver, accept a surcharge, or look elsewhere.
Building a written driver standard
A practical driver policy usually covers:
- Minimum age and experience for each vehicle class you operate
- MVR criteria: what number of moving violations or at-fault accidents in a lookback period disqualifies a driver, and which serious violations (DWI, reckless driving, driving while suspended, leaving the scene) disqualify outright
- When MVRs are checked: before hire or before first driving, and on a regular schedule after — annually is common
- Who may drive: employees only, approved drivers only, and rules about family members and passengers in take-home vehicles
- Reporting obligations: drivers must report license suspensions, tickets, and accidents promptly
- Phone and distraction rules
Get your insurance agent’s input before finalizing it. Your standard should be at least as strict as what your insurance companies expect.
Applying it consistently
A standard that exists only on paper does little. Underwriters may ask how you enforce it. Keep records of when MVRs were reviewed and who approved each driver. Apply it to everyone — including owners, managers, and long-tenured employees.
Seasonal and new drivers
Rapid hiring is a common source of auto losses. Seasonal technicians and new crew members should go through the same review before they drive, not after their first week.
Beyond MVRs
Telematics, cameras, and driver training programs can support a strong driver standard and give you data to coach drivers. Some insurance companies view these favorably. They work best on top of good hiring, not as a substitute for it.
This article is general information. Employment screening must comply with applicable laws, including consent requirements for obtaining driving records. Consult your employment counsel on your hiring process.