Things to Consider When Running a Nanny Driving Record Check

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For parents who require their nanny to transport their children to and from activities and appointments, checking a nanny candidate’s driving record is essential. If a nanny was in an accident or convicted of a traffic offense will show up on a driver’s record, however the length of time violations appear on a driving record can vary from state to state. A nanny’s driving record can reveal motor vehicle violations including minor moving violations and major violations like driving under the influence. A record check may also reveal lapses in insurance coverage and license suspensions or revocations.

In most states, driving records are easily obtained. In some states, however, obtaining a driving record isn’t as simple. In addition some states have several different types of driving records that individuals can request. Depending on your state, you may require your nanny to present a certified copy of her driving record to you for review or with her permission you may be able to request one from the department of motor vehicles directly or through a background screening company.

If a nanny has lived in various states and has held a license in each, parents may wish to consider reviewing the applicant’s motor vehicle record in each state. Additionally, parents who hire a nanny should consider periodically requesting an updated record to confirm their nanny is still qualified to transport the children.

If the nanny will be transporting the children, it must be determined if she will drive her own vehicle or an employer provided vehicle. If the nanny will be using her own vehicle, parents should confirm she is adequately insured and her automobile policy covers transporting children from work and ensure the car is safe for transporting the children. Parents should also reimburse the nanny according to the IRS business mileage reimbursement rate. If the nanny will be using an employer provided vehicle, the parents should ensure that the nanny will be covered under their automobile policy and add her as an additional driver, if required. Parents should also provide the nanny with petty cash or a credit card to purchase gas for the vehicle. Prior to the first day of work, parents and nannies should agree on how the insurance deductable will be handled should the nanny be involved in a motor vehicle accident. This agreement should be included in the nanny’s contract.

Parents should also ask the nanny to refrain from talking on her cell phone or texting while driving. Having the children’s car seats inspected by a certified passenger safety technician and ensuring the nanny knows how to properly use the car seats is imperative.

As parents consider checking a nanny’s driving record they should keep these things in mind.

  1. There is typically a nominal fee for conducting a driving record check. Whether you pay an investigative firm to do it, request the nanny to do it herself, or are able to access the records on your own, the state will charge a fee for obtaining motor vehicle records. In most cases the amount is nominal, but be aware that investigation firms will charge additional fees.
  2. A nanny’s permission is generally required to review her driving record. Even if you use an investigative firm, a nanny’s consent is required to access her driving record. In some cases, having the nanny submit a certified copy of her driving record is the easiest way to review the record.
  3. The record may not reflect the nanny’s actual driving history. The nanny’s driving record will only reflect instances where she was caught violating the law. Parents may also wish to drive with the nanny to observe her driving abilities prior to allowing her to transport the children.
  4. If your nanny is from out of state, you may wish to obtain more records. If your nanny has held motor vehicle licenses in more than one state, you may wish to review a driving record from each state.
  5. Checking the condition of the nanny’s car can also provide insight. If a nanny has a clean driving record but her vehicle is riddled with dings and dents, parents should question the condition of her vehicle.

For more information on background screenings please review our Guide to Nanny Background Checks.