Can a driver pull their own MVR?
Yes. Every state DMV sells a self-pull MVR directly to the driver — typically online for a state-set fee. But a driver-pulled MVR is generally NOT acceptable as the §391.23 employer-record for hire purposes. The carrier has to pull (or have pulled by an authorized agent) the MVR with documented FCRA + DPPA consent for it to satisfy the regulation.
The DPPA permits a driver to access their own DMV record without restriction (18 USC §2721(b)(1) and (b)(11)). Most state DMVs have an online self-service portal where a driver can pay the state fee and download their own MVR in PDF form.
For a §391.23 pre-employment investigation, however, the regulation places the obligation on the motor carrier — the carrier must "make an investigation" and "request" the violation record. A driver-pulled MVR handed to the carrier doesn't establish the carrier's due diligence in the same way. Most carriers require an MVR pulled by the carrier or an authorized screening agent specifically for the hire.
There is also an FCRA layer. When the MVR is bundled with PSP or CDLIS as part of an employment screening package, FCRA §1681b(b)(2) requires a clear-and-conspicuous standalone disclosure plus written authorization from the driver before the consumer report is pulled. A self-pulled MVR doesn't carry that paperwork trail.
Drivers who want to verify their own record before applying are well-served by the self-pull route. Carriers screening that driver still pull through their own screening agent for the hire packet.