Glossary
Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse
The FMCSA database of commercial driver drug and alcohol program violations. Employers of CDL drivers must query it before hiring and once a year for current drivers, and report violations to it.
Where this term is defined
This definition follows the authority that defines the term. Read the source directly:
FMCSA Drug and Alcohol ClearinghouseRead more
The full guide goes past the definition into the filings, deadlines, and steps: Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse guide.
Related terms
CDL
A commercial driver license, required to operate certain heavy or specialized commercial motor vehicles. Federal rules set when a CDL and its endorsements apply based on vehicle weight rating, passenger capacity, and hazardous materials.
Apportioned plate
A single license plate issued under the IRP that lets a commercial vehicle operate in every member jurisdiction. The registrant pays each jurisdiction a share of the fee based on the miles the fleet travels there.
Base jurisdiction
The single state or province where a carrier registers under IRP and licenses under IFTA, chosen by where the fleet is based and keeps its records. The base jurisdiction collects the fees and taxes and settles them with the other member jurisdictions.
BMC-84 surety bond
The surety bond a property broker or freight forwarder files with FMCSA as its financial responsibility instrument. It guarantees payment to carriers and shippers; a broker may instead file a BMC-85 trust fund for the same amount.
Haul Handbook publishes educational information about trucking registration and compliance requirements. This is not legal, financial, or tax advice. Rules, fees, and deadlines change; confirm with the agency before you file or pay.