New York Audit: Unqualified Drivers Received Commercial Licenses

January 15, 2009

An audit finds that the New York state Department of Motor Vehicles has incorrectly scored some tests for some commercial drivers and given licenses to people who were not qualified.

State Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli says the DMV also doesn't verify medical certificates that confirm a commercial license applicant is capable of driving.

New York applicants must pass a vision test, a written exam, a driving test and provide proof of identity.

Between April 1, 2005 and March 31, 2008, the audit found 14 out of 894 written exams reviewed were graded improperly. Nine of the drivers received commercial licenses, despite being unqualified, and five were given special approval for things like transporting hazardous waste.

The DMV didn't immediately comment.

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On the Net:
http://www.osc.state.ny.us/audits/allaudits/093009/07s96.pdf