ELECTRONIC LOGGING DEVICE
What is the ELD mandate?
The ELD mandate is a regulation by the FMCSA, enforced by the DOT, requiring commercial drivers to electronically log their driving hours with approved devices. It aims to improve safety and compliance with Hours of Service (HOS) rules. The mandate, part of the MAP-21 Act passed in 2012, applies to most commercial drivers who must use self-certified devices listed on the DOT website.
Benefits
ELD Benefits for Your Business
Adopting ELDs provides several important advantages:
- Ensuring compliance with regulations
- Automating duty and rest period tracking
- Increasing accuracy in HOS records
- Reducing the risk of fines for missing logs
ELD mandate exemptions
Certain drivers and vehicles may qualify for exemptions from the ELD mandate. Here are some of the key exemptions:
Short-Haul Exemption
Drivers within a 100 or 150 air-mile radius returning in 12 hours don’t need an ELD but must track hours.
8-Day Exemption
If you operate 8 or fewer days in a 30-day period, you can use paper logs instead of an ELD.
Driveaway-Towaway Exemption
No ELD is required if the vehicle is part of the shipment being delivered.
Pre-2000 vehicles Exemption
Trucks made before 2000 are exempt from the ELD rule due to system limitations.
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Frequently asked questions
Non-compliance can result in penalties, fines, or being placed out of service.
Do I need an ELD if I’m already using the Driver App?
You can verify compliance by checking the FMCSA’s list of certified devices.
ELDs reduce paperwork, improve fuel efficiency, and minimize HOS violations, helping lower costs.
ELDs replace traditional paper logs for recording hours of service (HOS).