Guide to North Carolina MVR and Driving Record Checks: What Employers Need to Know
A North Carolina Motor Vehicle Record check (MVR) is a vital tool for employers who want to make informed hiring decisions for roles that require driving. Whether your business involves commercial driving, fleet management, or simply requires employees to operate company vehicles, reviewing a candidate’s driving record helps mitigate risks and ensures compliance with state and federal laws.
Our Guide to North Carolina MVR and Driving Record Checks will provide everything you need to know about North Carolina MVR and driving record checks, including how to obtain them, what information they contain, and why they are essential for businesses.
What Is a North Carolina MVR?
A North Carolina MVR, also called a driving record check, provides a comprehensive history of a driver’s performance on North Carolina roadways. These records are crucial for employers looking to assess a candidate’s driving behavior, safety record, and compliance with traffic laws.
A North Carolina driving record typically includes:
✔ License Type, Class, and Status (valid, suspended, or revoked)
✔ Accidents and Traffic Violations
✔ DUIs and Other Major Offenses
✔ License Suspensions or Revocations
✔ Restrictions or Endorsements
✔ License Issue and Expiration Dates
Why Should Employers Order North Carolina MVR Reports?
Employers in North Carolina conduct MVR checks for several reasons, including:
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Reducing Liability Risks – Employees with a history of traffic violations or reckless driving can pose significant risks to your company. Conducting an MVR check helps identify potential issues before hiring.
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Compliance With State and Federal Regulations – Businesses that hire drivers must comply with regulations from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and Department of Transportation (DOT) if their vehicles:
- Weigh more than 10,000 pounds
- Transport nine or more passengers
- Carry hazardous materials
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Lowering Insurance Costs – Commercial auto insurance rates can skyrocket if a company hires drivers with poor records. Screening candidates beforehand can help prevent unnecessary premium increases.
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Protecting Company Assets & Reputation – Employees driving company vehicles represent your business. Ensuring that only responsible individuals are behind the wheel helps maintain a positive brand image and protects valuable assets.

How to Obtain a North Carolina Driving Record?
Employers can obtain North Carolina MVR reports through:
✔ North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles (NCDMV) – You can request a driving record online, in person, or by mail. The request typically requires the driver’s name, date of birth, and driver’s license number, along with a processing fee.
✔ Third-Party Background Screening Providers – Partnering with a professional background check company like Edify Background Screening can streamline the process. With faster turnaround times and compliance tools, third-party services ensure accuracy and help employers manage risk efficiently.
What Information Appears on a North Carolina MVR?
A North Carolina driving record check includes the following key details:
🔹 Driver’s Personal Information – Name, license number, and date of birth
🔹 License Status – Active, suspended, revoked, or expired
🔹 Traffic Violations & Citations – Speeding, reckless driving, failure to yield, and more
🔹 DUI/DWI Records – Driving under the influence offenses and related penalties
🔹 Accident Reports – Details of any accidents the driver was involved in
🔹 Endorsements & Restrictions – Any special driving permissions or limitations
Employers should be aware that driving records are subject to privacy regulations, and consent from the employee or candidate is required before accessing their report.
Federal & North Carolina Laws Affecting MVR Checks
Employers must comply with the following regulations when requesting an MVR check:
📌 Driver Privacy Protection Act (DPPA) – Protects personal information in driving records. Employers must obtain written consent from the individual before ordering a report.
📌 Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) – Ensures that background screening companies provide accurate and up-to-date information. Employers must issue adverse action notices if a hiring decision is influenced by an MVR report.
📌 FMCSA & DOT Regulations – Require MVR checks during the hiring process and annually thereafter for commercial driving positions. Employers must also maintain driving records for three years as part of their compliance requirements.
How Edify Background Screening Can Help
At Edify Background Screening, we offer fast, accurate, and FCRA-compliant North Carolina MVR checks to help businesses hire with confidence. Our services ensure that you:
✔ Receive reliable, up-to-date driving records
✔ Stay compliant with federal and state regulations
✔ Reduce hiring risks and potential liabilities
✔ Easily integrate MVR checks into your pre-employment screening process
Final Thoughts
Conducting North Carolina MVR and driving record checks is an essential step in protecting your business from liability, reducing insurance costs, and maintaining compliance with local and federal regulations. By working with a trusted background screening provider like Edify Background Screening, you can ensure that your hiring process is thorough, efficient, and legally compliant.
The resources provided here are for educational purposes only and do not constitute legal advice. We advise you to consult your own counsel if you have legal questions related to your specific practices and compliance with applicable laws.