ELD Rules: What Drivers Need to Know
Since the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) mandated the use of Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs), life on the road has changed for truck drivers. Whether you’re a company driver or an independent contractor, it’s crucial to stay compliant with ELD regulations to avoid violations, fines, and disruptions to your schedule.
This guide breaks down what drivers need to know in plain language—no legal jargon, just facts.
🧭 What Is an ELD?
An Electronic Logging Device (ELD) automatically records a driver’s driving time and Hours of Service (HOS). It replaces paper logs and ensures compliance with FMCSA regulations for all drivers operating commercial motor vehicles (CMVs).
🕑 Who Must Use an ELD?
You are required to use an ELD if you:
Drive a commercial vehicle that weighs 10,001 lbs or more
Drive more than 8 days in a 30-day period
Are not operating under short-haul exemptions
Are not subject to pre-2000 engine exemptions
Some exceptions include:
Driveaway-towaway operations
Vehicles manufactured before 2000
Drivers using paper logs for 8 or fewer days within a 30-day span
📋 What Does an ELD Track?
ELDs are connected to the truck’s engine and automatically log:
Driving time
Engine hours
Location data
Miles driven
Driver identification
It also keeps status updates:
On Duty
Driving
Sleeper Berth
Off Duty
🧾 Key Rules Drivers Must Follow
| Rule | Summary |
|---|---|
| 8/30 Rule | No more than 8 days on paper logs in a rolling 30-day period |
| Duty Status Updates | Must be accurately entered or edited when off-duty, at shipper, or resting |
| Personal Conveyance (PC) | Can be used only when not under dispatch or advancing a load |
| Yard Move | Must be approved by carrier and properly set on ELD |
| Malfunction Protocol | If an ELD fails, paper logs are required for up to 8 days while it’s fixed |
💡 Driver Tips for ELD Compliance
Know how to operate your ELD – Always carry the user manual and quick start guide
Log your status immediately when starting or ending any duty period
Don’t misuse Personal Conveyance – It’s a common violation during audits
Keep backup paper logs just in case of device failure
Review logs weekly for accuracy and unassigned drive time
❌ Common ELD Violations to Avoid
Not logging in or out
Driving in “On Duty” instead of “Driving”
Failing to annotate a change in duty status
Misuse of PC or Yard Move
Failure to transfer logs during inspection
Each of these can lead to:
HOS violations
Out-of-service orders
Fines
CSA score damage
📌 Why It Matters
Your ELD record is visible to:
DOT officers
Carriers
Insurance underwriters
FMCSA auditors
Mistakes or misuse can affect your employability, trigger federal audits, or cause logbook violations that linger on your PSP record.
✅ Stay Ahead of ELD Compliance
Stay informed about ELD model updates and FMCSA announcements
Use an ELD-friendly planning app (like KeepTruckin, BigRoad, or Garmin)
Ask your carrier for ELD training refreshers if you’re unsure about updates
