WASHINGTON – Last week, the Department of Transportation published a final rule in the Federal Register relating to electronic-logging devices (ELDs) and hours of service record-keeping obligations. ELDs automatically record driving time and monitor engine hours, miles driven, vehicle movement and location data.

Since 1938, many truck and bus drivers have had to comply with requirements to compile “records of duty status” (RODS)—to log their driving hours in paper on-duty/off-duty logs.  They are required to compile these logs because federal safety regulations impose limits on the number of hours commercial drivers can be “on-duty” and drive, including the actual number of hours spent driving. Such hour limitations are intended to require proper work breaks and rest periods so that drivers do not become overly tired (and thus dangerous) while they are on the road.

Said U.S. Transportation Secretary Anthony Foxx: “This automated technology not only brings logging records into the modern age, it also allows roadside safety inspectors to unmask violations of federal law that put lives at risk.”

By transitioning to electronic logging from paper records, this final rule is expected to significantly reduce industry paperwork obligations and enhance the efficiency and ability of law enforcement to review driver records during routine stops.

The ruling requires new technical specifications for ELDs that address statutory requirements; mandates ELDs for drivers currently using paper RODS; clarifies supporting document requirements; and adopts both procedural and technical provisions. The rule will go into effect on February 16, 2016, and commercial truck and bus drivers must be in compliance by December 18, 2017.

Further information, including a comprehensive, searchable list of frequently asked questions and a calendar of upcoming free training webinars, is available at https://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/elds.