All of the requirements that are part of our in-depth CareDriver certification process are important, and each and every one must be met in order for applicants to qualify for access to the HopSkipDrive platform.
One of the unique requirements for becoming a HopSkipDrive CareDriver is a minimum of five years of caregiving experience, which includes such things as work as a teacher, a nurse, a counselor or a nanny — or experience as a parent or caring for family members.
Read on to learn more about the stringent requirements we have carefully devised to ensure that HopSkipDrive's network of CareDrivers is a unique — and safe — transportation option for school districts across the country.
HopSkipDrive’s 15-point CareDriver certification process
1. Caregiving experience
Because we work with populations that require a little extra care (such as children and older adults), HopSkipDrive CareDrivers are required to have at least 5 years of caregiving experience, two of which must include child-centric care.
This requirement is one of many things that sets HopSkipDrive apart from other transportation partners. We firmly believe that caregiving experience gives CareDrivers a solid foundation that enables them to empathize with and connect to Riders, which translates into a positive ride experience for everyone.
Below is a list of some experiences that meet the definition of “caregiving”; additional types of experience may also qualify:
- Parents
- Teachers
- Nannies/Babysitters
- Nurses
- Camp counselors
- A primary caregiver for a family member or loved one
2. Criminal record check
With the safety of the entire HopSkipDrive community being of the utmost importance, we believe in administering the most extensive background checks possible. HopSkipDrive CareDrivers must pass a comprehensive search of county, state, and national criminal records, including a social security trace, the global watchlist and sex offender registries.
3. Fingerprinting
We believe strongly in stringent safety measures and the peace of mind they offer. This is why all HopSkipDrive CareDrivers must submit to fingerprint-based criminal history searches against FBI databases.
4. Child abuse and neglect screening* (CANS)
Anyone who is interested in becoming a HopSkipDrive CareDriver has to complete a Child Abuse and Neglect Screening (CANS). Each state has its own set of rules and steps for completing this process. CareDriver hopefuls must receive state-level clearance from the Department of Human Services database.
*Implemented for prospective drivers in 2021 where legally permitted. In some markets, this may be completed after activation on the platform for new and existing CareDrivers.
5. Valid driver’s license
As part of the CareDriver certification process, CareDriver hopefuls must submit proof of a valid driver’s license issued by the state they will be driving in.
6. Driving experience
HopSkipDrive CareDrivers must have a minimum of 3 years of driving experience in order to gain access to the HopSkipDrive platform.
7. Good driving record
CareDriver hopefuls must pass an initial motor vehicle history search, and must also submit to ongoing monitoring for any new driving infractions. Once a CareDriver is certified on the HopSkipDrive platform, HopSkipDrive uses telematics to detect unsafe driving behavior, such as telephone or text use while driving, braking force and speed.
8. Age minimum
HopSkipDrive CareDrivers are required to be at least 23 years old.
9. Vehicle requirements
In order to be a HopSkipDrive CareDriver, you must own or lease a four-door vehicle no more than 13 years old* that seats four to seven passengers.
Any vehicle being used to provide services on the HopSkipDrive platform must be in good operating condition and meet all applicable industry and state department of motor vehicle requirements for a vehicle of its kind.
Once certified on the HopSkipDrive platform, CareDrivers are expected to maintain the condition of their vehicle. This includes cleanliness; some Riders may have a sensitivity to certain odors or pet hair, so CareDrivers are asked to take any necessary precautions before each ride to ensure their vehicle has been cleaned and is ready for use.
*In DC, MD, PA and Seattle, vehicles must be no more than 10 years old.
10. Vehicle registration
HopSkipDrive CareDriver hopefuls must have, and submit proof of, a current vehicle registration issued by the state they will be driving in. HopSkipDrive CareDrivers can only have one approved vehicle on their HopSkipDrive account.
11. Vehicle insurance
Anyone interested in becoming a HopSkipDrive CareDriver must have, and submit proof of, vehicle insurance. All CareDrivers need to maintain automobile liability insurance on the vehicles they operate while driving for HopSkipDrive, with insurance limits equal to or greater than the minimum requirements in the state where they drive.
12. Annual vehicle inspection
All vehicles operated by HopSkipDrive CareDrivers must pass an annual inspection by a certified mechanic. This 19-point vehicle inspection is an industry standard that mechanics use to evaluate a car’s safety and operability. It covers everything from fluids to the suspension system. Vehicle inspections expire annually or every 50,000 miles, whichever comes first.
13. CareDriver orientation
As part of the onboarding process, all HopSkipDrive CareDrivers must complete a live orientation with a member of the HopSkipDrive team.
14. Adherence to community guidelines
All HopSkipDrive CareDrivers must learn and follow HopSkipDrive community guidelines. These guidelines were developed with CareDrivers and Riders in mind to help ensure a safe, smart and respectful in-ride experience for all. Everyone who uses the HopSkipDrive platform is expected to follow these guidelines.
15. Compliance with zero-tolerance policies
HopSkipDrive CareDrivers must adhere to HopSkipDrive’s zero-tolerance policies related to such things as the use of drugs or alcohol while driving, nondiscrimination, no-touch rules with Riders, and no cell phone usage while driving.
Any users of the HopSkipDrive platform who are reported to have violated one or more of the zero-tolerance policies may be promptly suspended from the platform pending an investigation. Those found to have violated one or more of the zero-tolerance policies will be deactivated in accordance with the law and Terms of Use.
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