The FMCSA Clearinghouse is still experiencing technical difficulties more than 2 weeks after launch. However, you can still hire the drivers you need today by "using solely the procedures set forth in 49 CFR 391.23(e)."
Since its launch earlier this month, the CDL Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse has experienced major technical difficulties. Initially, it was due to heavy usage. More recently, the database is experiencing intermittent issues with recognizing a driver’s license information.
FMCSA has placed a notice on the Clearinghouse website advising employers who are experiencing technical difficulties accessing the database to follow the procedures set forth in section 391.23(e) in title 49 of the Code of Federal Regulations. This section details investigations employers must conduct for prospective drivers, including those that screen for drug and alcohol violations.
A department spokesman confirmed “the agency is continuing to work to resolve these technical challenges as soon as possible.”
WSS is working with clients to ensure all drivers are properly screened, and we'll let you know when everything is up and running perfectly to begin inputting data.