How to Complete the Driver Application in Optimus Paper

The Driver Application in Optimus Paper is a digital version of the official DOT driver application form, designed to streamline the onboarding process for motor carriers. It helps you collect all required information from drivers, including personal details, employment history, experience, and safety records, in a structured and compliant format.

This tool replaces paper forms and email follow-ups with a centralized, easy-to-use workflow where drivers can complete and sign everything electronically.

You can access and use the Driver Application in two ways:

1. Fill it out directly within your Optimus Paper account.
2. Generate a secure link and send it to the driver, so they can complete the form without logging in.

This second option is especially helpful when onboarding remote drivers. You can share the link via email or text, and the driver can fill out their application and upload documents on their own, from any device.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Open the Driver Application

Go to Database > Drivers > +Add New Driver, then choose one of the two options:

• Add New Driver – This opens the Driver Application directly in your browser so you can fill it out yourself.
• Generate Link – This creates a secure link that opens the form automatically in your browser. You can copy and send the link to the driver via email or text so they can complete the application and upload their documents remotely.

Once the form opens, you’ll see the various sections of the application as tabs, and you may need to scroll down within each tab to fill out all fields.

2. Driver Information
Enter the driver’s information, residence history, and general details.

Important: Notice the mandatory fields signaled with a red *.
At the bottom, you'll find the Documents section, where you can upload documents under “Additional Documents.” Upload a copy of the driver's license, medical certificate, pre-employment MVR, and any other additional documents you have available for the driver. 

3. Truck

Assign a truck to the driver by selecting from the dropdown menu of existing trucks, or check the box if the driver is bringing their own truck.

⚠️ If using their own, enter the truck’s information and toggle the switch to green to activate and register it automatically.

4. Employment
Add previous employers from the last 3 years and the most recent work schedule.

This section generates the Safety Performance History Records Request, so it’s essential to fill out all fields accurately.

5. Accidents/Convictions
List accidents and convictions from the last 3 years.

🚫 Do not include parking tickets.

6. Experience

Add the driver’s commercial driving experience by type of equipment and any additional license types.

➕ Use “+ Add more” to include additional experience, if needed.

7. Other Experience (optional)
You may include extra experience like certifications or training, though it’s not mandatory.

8. Testing
In this section, the driver will acknowledge the Pre-Employment drug and alcohol questionnaire.

9. Consent

In this final section, the driver will begin the e-signing process for their onboarding documents, including the Driver Application, Safety Performance History Records Request, Waiver of Disclosure, Clearinghouse Policy, and Commercial Motor Vehicle Driver Safety Policy, among others.

The driver must re-enter their name exactly as shown at the top (no extra spaces or special characters), provide a valid email or phone number for verification, accept the terms and conditions, and click Submit.

⚠️ If you check the box for “Send Signature Separately”, the driver will receive an email or SMS with a link to complete the signing process independently.

Final Submission & Signature

• Click “Submit” to proceed to the signature step.

• Create your e-signature and click “Start sign”.

• A preview of the application will appear.

• Click “Add Signature” in each required spot, then click “Sign.”

• When finished, click “Submit” at the bottom of the page.

Final Driver Verifications

The driver must verify their email or phone number:

1. Open the email titled “Verify Email Address” (or the SMS, if phone was used), and click the link to confirm.

2. Then open the second message titled “Verify Signed Documents.” Review the documents and click “Verify” to finalize the submission.

Once verified, the driver’s application is officially submitted. Completing this process will automatically generate the driver's DQ File.

See this article for a full breakdown of the DQ File page and how to manage its contents.