> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.tread.ai/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Drivers

> Add the drivers who will receive dispatches.

## What you'll do

Add the drivers you dispatch who have their own account — Owner-Operators (O\&Os) and contract drivers.

<Warning>
  **Internal drivers are not created here.** An employee who drives for you is a user with the **Driver** role — create them in [Users](/onboarding/master-data/users). Creating a driver on this page gives them their own account, like an O\&O. You can't convert the record yourself; contact support to remove it.
</Warning>

## Before you start

* A driver list with name, mobile phone, license info, and assigned truck (if any).
* An O\&O (Owner-Operator) is a driver who owns their own truck and works for you — they belong on this page.
* Employees who drive for you are internal drivers — create them in [Users](/onboarding/master-data/users) with the **Driver** role.
* Drivers belonging to a third-party hauling company are added through that [Vendor](/onboarding/master-data/vendors), not here.

## Walkthrough

<Steps>
  <Step title="Open Settings → Drivers">
    Click **Add Driver**.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Fill in driver details">
    Enter name, mobile phone, and email. Phone must be unique.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Assign default equipment">
    Pick the truck the driver usually runs. The driver app pre-selects it on shift start. You can override per shift. Set the unit as Internal if you own the unit or External if the driver owns the unit.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Set the Ext. ID (optional)">
    Paste the payroll or accounting system identifier if you settle drivers through an integration.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Send the driver app invite">
    The driver receives an SMS or email link to install the Tread driver app and log in.
  </Step>
</Steps>

## Verify

Settings → Drivers shows every driver in your account.