FMCSA Clearinghouse Queries Explained

Short answer: A Clearinghouse query is a check against the FMCSA database that returns whether a CDL driver has any unresolved drug or alcohol program violations.

Two types of queries

• Limited query: Returns yes/no whether information exists. Requires general written driver consent kept on file.
• Full query: Returns detailed records. Requires driver consent inside their Clearinghouse account.

Pre-employment queries

Before any new CDL driver performs a safety-sensitive function, the employer must run a full pre-employment query. This applies to new owner-operators starting under their own authority as well.

Annual queries

Every employer must run at least one query per CDL driver per year. Most carriers run a limited query annually and only escalate to a full query if records exist.

Owner-operator C/TPA designation

Owner-operators must designate a Consortium / Third-Party Administrator inside their Clearinghouse account. This lets the C/TPA receive certain notifications on your behalf.

What we can and can't do

We guide you step-by-step through Clearinghouse registration, C/TPA designation, and queries. We do not log into your Clearinghouse account or take restricted FMCSA actions without your authorization.