It’s crucial for employers to have a strong understanding of who they’re hiring. You need to be well aware of any yellow or red flags to inform your hiring decisions and have confidence in new employees.

Background screening new hires is one of your best tools for acquiring the information necessary to determine whether the candidate is a good fit or a liability.

Some companies need to run a criminal background check, and others may need a credit check. And some companies or specific roles that call for the candidate to drive a vehicle on the clock, it’s wise to run a driver abstract.

Keep reading to learn more about a driver abstract and how it’s necessary for any business considering hiring a candidate for a driving role.

What are Drivers Abstracts?

A driver’s abstract is a specific type of driver’s history that provides basic information and a high-level overview of any restrictions, demerits, or anything else you may want to know before making your hiring decision. You’ll also verify the candidate’s name, date of birth, and address by requesting an abstract.

These specialized reports also allow you to verify the licence classification of a potential candidate to ensure they have the qualifications the specific role requires, such as driving a commercial truck.

Let’s dive deeper into what’s available on an abstract and the various types of abstracts you may need to request.

Types of Driving Abstracts in Canada

There are two broad categories of abstracts, which are then further divided based on specific needs. However, the two overarching categories are:

1. Certified: Some legal processes may require a certified abstract. A certified abstract contains the same information as uncertified variations but will include an embossed seal from the Ministry of Transportation to verify its authenticity. Due to the different processes, certified abstracts can take longer to receive.
2. Uncertified: An uncertified abstract is faster and provides all the information you’ll need to make an informed decision about the candidate. You’ll still have accurate information, but without the certified seal that may be necessary for your insurance company or applicable regulations.

There are several specific driver reports available. Review insurance and legal requirements to understand better which of the following reports you need:

• 3-year uncertified driver’s record
• 3-year certified driver’s record
• 5-year uncertified driver’s record
• 5-year certified driver’s record
• Extended driver’s record search
• Complete driver’s record
• Driver’s licence history
• Driver’s licence check
• Driver confirmation letter

Specific industries and job roles may also require a Commercial Vehicle Operator’s Registration Abstract (CVOR).

1. CVOR Driver’s Abstract: This type of CVOR abstract provides a 5-year record of all safety offences, collisions, and the current driver’s licence status.
2. CVOR Abstract (Level I and II): Both of these CVOR abstracts focus on the career rather than a driver. The Level I abstract summarizes the past two years, while the Level II abstract provides a five-year summary. You will not likely need these for new hires, but they’re worth being aware of.

You can see how it can become confusing to understand which way to go when you’re hiring a new driver. Most businesses will need a 3-year certified or uncertified record, while others may need a 5-year report with or without certification. 

Review all regulations, requirements from your insurance company, and any other factors that dictate which type of abstract or level of information you’ll need.

What Information is On a Driver’s Abstract?

A driver's abstract contains different information about the candidate depending on the specific type we discussed above. Generally speaking, you’ll receive the following information in an abstract:

• Basic information
• Address
• Driver’s licence number
• Licence expiry date
• Licence status
• Classification
• Demerit points
• Driving restrictions
• Traffic violations
• Driving convictions
• Date licensed

You’ve now verified the candidate’s basic information, like name and address, and gained deeper insights into their driving history. From there, you can make an informed decision by considering every piece of information.

When Should You Request a Driver Abstract?

Deciding when to request a driver involves evaluating your business’ needs, requirements for specific roles, requirements from your insurance company, and any possible regulations facing your industry.

For example, some businesses, such as those in the delivery or distribution industry, run a driver's abstract for every employee except support staff. In the automotive industry, car dealerships often run driver’s abstracts on most employees as test drives and lot reorganization are often a daily responsibility. Others may only run them for specific roles that involve driving.

Ultimately, you need to carefully consider the needs of your business and related responsibilities to decide when to request any type of driver abstract. But, as a good general rule: if the employee is going to be driving on the clock or accessing company vehicles, it’s worth requesting a driving abstract.

A Safe Driver is an Asset to Your Company

Running a driver abstract helps you determine if a candidate will keep your company safe or invite a higher risk of causing a collision, accident, or other safety incidents. While it’s worth remembering a perfect driving record doesn’t mean they’ll never have an incident, it does mean they have a demonstrated history of safe driving.

It’s well worth the time and cost to have peace of mind for anyone that will be behind the wheel on company time. A problem-free abstract is an excellent sign that the new hire will avoid an incident that may be costly, slow down operations, or hike insurance rates. 

Does a Driver's Abstract Replace Other Background Checks?

Running a driver’s abstract gives you information specific to the candidate’s driving history, along with verifying basic information. However, it may not be the only type of background screening you need to run.

For example, you won’t know about any criminal violations unless related to driving. You won’t verify education or references. You also won’t know anything about creditworthiness.

Driver’s abstracts are a specialized type of background check and may not be the only screening process you must request based on your needs and applicable regulations.

Team Up With Hire Performance for Quick and Accurate Driver Abstracts



A driver’s abstract provides the candidate’s driving record while verifying other essential information, like name and date of birth. So you’ll know the new hire is who they say they are and is less likely to be a liability on the road.

Hire Performance’s on-demand eScreener tool gives you readily available access to run drivers abstract and other background checks whenever needed. Our transparent, accurate, and industry-recognized process reduces the time waiting for information and lets you make hiring decisions faster.

Ready to discover how eScreener can ensure you only hire the best? Check out eScreener today to get started with our fast and straightforward process.