As a truck driver, your Pre-Employment Screening Program (PSP) and Drive-A-Check (DAC) reports are two of the most important documents in your career.
These reports provide employers with a detailed record of your driving history, safety performance, and employment background. But what happens when there is a mistake in one of these reports? Even a small error can affect your ability to land a job or maintain your professional reputation.
Keep reading to discover the necessary steps to dispute an error on your PSP or DAC report in 2025, including the latest processes and best practices.
What Are PSP and DAC Reports?
No matter if you are a new or a seasoned driver, PSP and DAC reports can have a major impact on your career and livelihood.
Because employers rely on these reports during the hiring process, accuracy is crucial. This means that, first, it is essential to understand exactly what these reports are.
- PSP Report: Managed by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), your PSP report contains crash data, roadside inspections, and violations collected from the Motor Carrier Management Information System (MCMIS). Trucking companies use this to evaluate your safety history.
- DAC Report: Managed by HireRight, your DAC report includes employment history, termination reasons, drug and alcohol test results, and other employer-provided information. Think of it as a trucking-specific employment credit report.
Common Reasons for Errors on Your Reports
Unfortunately, even on documents as essential as these, errors can happen for several reasons:
- Human Error: Mistakes made when inputting data from inspections or employment records.
- Outdated Information: Records that have not been updated or corrected over time.
- Identity Mix-Ups: Confusion caused by similar names, driver numbers, or other identifying details.
If at any time you find incorrect information in either of your reports, addressing it promptly is key to avoiding missed job opportunities.
How to Dispute Errors on Your PSP Report
First, we will cover the 5 steps to dispute errors on your Pre-Employment Screening Program (PSP) report.
Get a Copy of Your PSP Report
- You can request your PSP report online here.
- The report costs $10, and you will need your driver’s license and a valid credit card.
Carefully Review the Report
- Look over every detail of the report, including crash information and roadside violations.
- Compare this data with your personal records, such as inspection reports or ticket receipts.
File a Dispute Through the DataQs System
- DataQs is the official FMCSA portal for disputing PSP errors.
- Create an account at DataQs Portal.
- Submit your dispute by selecting the error and providing evidence to back up your claim. Be sure to include clear documentation like police reports, inspection tickets, or even photos.
Monitor the Status of Your Dispute
- Once submitted, your case will be assigned to the state or agency that entered the data.
- Check the portal regularly for updates.
Appeal if Necessary
- If your dispute is denied and you feel the decision was incorrect, you can submit additional evidence or contact FMCSA for further help.
Disputing Errors on Your DAC Report
Now, discover how to dispute errors on your Drive-A-Check (DAC) report.
Request Your DAC Report
- Under the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA), you are entitled to a free copy of your DAC report once a year.
- Visit HireRight’s website to request it.
Review for Inaccuracies
- Check for errors in your employment history, reasons for termination, or any drug test results.
Contact HireRight Directly
- File a dispute with HireRight by:
- Logging into your account.
- Clicking “Dispute” next to the section in question.
- Providing a clear explanation and uploading supporting documents like pay stubs, emails, or drug test results.
Give the Process Time
- By law, HireRight must investigate disputes within 30 days. If your claim is valid, they are required to correct the error and notify any employer who received the report in the past two years.
Escalate When Necessary
- If you are unsatisfied with the resolution, file a complaint with the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB). You may also consult a legal expert if the error has severely impacted your career.
Best Practices for a Successful Dispute
Errors on your PSP or DAC report do not have to hold you back. By staying proactive, organized, and persistent, you can ensure your records are accurate and reflective of your professional performance.
Remember these strategies to best prepare for a successful dispute of your PSP or DAC reports.
- Stay Organized: Keep a folder with copies of employment agreements, inspection reports, and any communication with employers or enforcement agencies.
- Act Fast: The sooner you dispute an error, the sooner it can be corrected. This is especially important if you are actively job hunting.
- Provide Clear Evidence: The stronger your evidence, the higher the chance of success. Make your explanation concise and back it up with relevant documentation.
- Check Annually: Make it a habit to review your PSP and DAC reports yearly to catch issues early.
Have you successfully disputed an error on your PSP or DAC report? Share your experience in the comments or connect with us on social media to help other drivers navigate the process!
