Navigating FMCSA requirements can be complex, especially when it comes to how to register your CDL drivers on the Clearinghouse platform (2025 edition). This step-by-step guide will ensure your company remains compliant while avoiding costly penalties and violations.
What is the FMCSA Clearinghouse?
The DOT Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse is a secure, online database that stores real-time information about CDL drivers’ drug and alcohol program violations. Since January 2020, employers must report and query driver records in the Clearinghouse.
Learn more directly from the FMCSA Clearinghouse.
Who Needs to Register?
All employers of CDL drivers operating under FMCSA regulations must register themselves and ensure their drivers are registered too. This includes:
Interstate and intrastate motor carriers
School bus and transit operators
Construction and utility vehicle employers
Owner-operators
Check out our internal DOT SAP Program page for compliance help.
Step-by-Step: How to Register Your CDL Drivers on the Clearinghouse Platform (2025 Edition)
Step 1: Register as an Employer
Before registering your drivers, you must create an employer account:
Select “Register” and choose “Employer” as your role
Provide company info, DOT Number, and contact email
Link your FMCSA Portal account for verification
Pro Tip: If you don’t have an FMCSA Portal account, create one first. You’ll need it to complete registration.
Step 2: Invite Your CDL Drivers to Register
Your drivers must also create their own Clearinghouse accounts to provide electronic consent for full queries.
Have drivers go to the Clearinghouse Registration page
Instruct them to choose “Driver” as their user role
They must provide a valid CDL number and issuing state
Reminder: Without driver consent, employers cannot view full violation details.
Step 3: Conduct a Pre-Employment Query
Once drivers are registered:
Log into your employer Clearinghouse account
Run a full query on each prospective driver
Pay the $1.25/query fee (or bulk plan)
This confirms they don’t have any unresolved violations.
For ongoing compliance steps, visit our Return to Duty Process guide.
Step 4: Set Up Annual Queries
FMCSA mandates that you query each CDL driver at least once per year.
You can run limited queries annually
Consent from the driver is still required
Keep detailed records of all queries for 3+ years
What Happens If You Don’t Register Your CDL Drivers?
Failure to register or query your drivers on the Clearinghouse can result in:
Fines up to $5,833 per violation
Revocation of DOT operating authority
Delays in hiring and onboarding new drivers
FAQs: How to Register Your CDL Drivers on the Clearinghouse Platform (2025 Edition)
Q1: Can owner-operators self-register?
Yes, but they must register as both “Driver” and “Employer.”
Q2: What if my driver doesn’t have an email address?
They need one to complete registration. Create a dedicated one if necessary.
Q3: How often should employers query the Clearinghouse?
Pre-employment (full query) and at least once a year (limited or full).
Conclusion
Understanding how to register your CDL drivers on the Clearinghouse platform (2025 edition) is vital for staying FMCSA-compliant. By following the steps outlined above, you can avoid penalties, streamline hiring, and ensure the safety of your workforce.
Need help navigating the Clearinghouse or dealing with violations? Our team at AACSCounseling.com is here to support your compliance goals.
Review How to Register Your CDL Drivers on the Clearinghouse Platform (2025 Edition).