Hey drivers and fleet owners 
Had an audit lately? They’re checking your DQF more closely than ever. Here’s what FMCSA auditors are flagging in 2026:
1. Expired Medical Certificates
This is the #1 violation they find. Your medical card expires every 24 months max, and as of June 2025, paper cards are gone - it’s all in the system now. If your MVR doesn’t show current medical certification, you’re getting written up.
2. Missing or Late Annual MVR Reviews
You need an MVR pulled every 365 days for every driver. Not 366. Not “sometime this year.” Every 365 days, with a note showing who reviewed it and when.
3. Clearinghouse Query Gaps
Pre-employment query before EVERY hire. Annual query within 365 days for current drivers. Auditors are checking dates now, not just “did you do it.”
4. Incomplete Employment History
That 10-year employment history on your application? They’re checking you actually verified it. Document your attempts to contact previous employers - even the ones who never called back.
5. Drug Test Documentation Gaps
Pre-employment negatives BEFORE first day of work. Random selection documentation. Post-accident testing within the time windows (8 hours alcohol, 32 hours drug).
How’s your DQF looking? Drop a comment below with your worst audit story 
Need help getting compliant? Vertical Identity offers DQF management starting at $75/driver/year.