Will a Speeding Ticket Show Up on a Background Check?

Whether a speeding ticket appears on a background check depends on the type of screening conducted, the nature of the violation, and applicable state and local laws. 

Many employers conduct criminal background checks as part of the hiring process. Minor speeding violations are typically treated as civil infractions and do not usually appear on background reports. In some jurisdictions, however, certain speeding-related offenses may be classified as misdemeanor, in which case they may be reportable.

For positions in which driving is a job-related function, employers may also request a driving record check, commonly referred to as a Motor Vehicle Report (MVR). Speeding violations, including minor infractions and criminal traffic offenses, generally appear on MVRs. 

 What Do Background Checks Look For?

Background checks are pre-employment screenings that verify a job candidate’s identity and credentials. Depending on the type of check, these screenings can include a person’s credit report, identity verification documents, driving history, educational background, and employment history. Employers typically use background check results to make hiring decisions that are job-related, consistent with business necessity, and aligned with company policy. 

Employment Impact of Speeding Tickets

If an organization requires its employees to drive as part of their job, then it is responsible for its workers’ safety and any resulting liabilities. As a result, many organizations conduct Motor Vehicle Report (MVR) checks when evaluating candidates for driving-related roles.

A candidate’s driving history may be reviewed as part of this process. Isolated or minor speeding violations that appear infrequently on an MVR report may not be considered a significant concern, depending on the role and the employer’s policies. 

However, driving history that shows multiple or more serious speeding violations, including those classified as misdemeanor under state law, may indicate a higher level of driving risk. As an organization considers a candidate for the position, they may evaluate whether the candidate’s driving history aligns with the requirements of the position, as well as the organization’s safety standards, policies and risk tolerance.

Employer Rights and Responsibilities

Ultimately, employers have a responsibility to consider the safety of their employees, customers, and the public. For positions that require driving as an essential job function, employers may review an applicant’s Motor Vehicle Report (MVR) to help evaluate driving-related risk. While requirements vary by jurisdiction, many organizations conduct MVR checks when employees are expected to drive as part of their role.

If speeding tickets appear on an applicant’s driving history, employers may consider those violations to the extent they are job-related and consistent with company policy. In doing so, employers are responsible for applying their standards fairly, considering factors such as the severity and frequency of the violations, how much time has passed, and the driving responsibilities of the position, while complying with applicable federal, state, and local laws.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do All Background Checks Include Driving Records?

No, not all background checks include driving records. The background checks an organization conducts depend on the requirements of the position being filled. If the job requires driving, a driving record check will be required in compliance with company policy and applicable state laws.

Can an Employer Deny a Job Because of a Speeding Ticket?

It depends on the number and severity of the speeding violations and how they fit within the candidate’s overall driving history. Employers should evaluate any speeding tickets in the context of the position's driving requirements, company policies and applicable laws to make fair and consistent hiring decisions.