Becoming DOT Compliant with Electronic Logging Devices

As an FMCSA rule, all CMV operators who keep Records of Duty Status (RODS) are subject to the ELD mandate.

Yes. To become an active user of an ELD-enabled vehicle, a driver can log in from an ELD app on their mobile device, choose the vehicle they will be using and begin driving. To change the active driver, the new driver simply logs in and selects the vehicle in association with their account.

According to the FMCSA, a driver using an ELD must have the following in their commercial motor vehicle:

• An operational manual for the ELD.
• Instructions for the data transfer mechanisms supported by the electronic logging device.
• Instructions for reporting and recordkeeping during ELD malfunctions.
• A backup supply of paper RODS graphs (enough to record the driver’s HOS for at least 8 days).

While few drivers would describe a DOT inspection as “easy,” an ELD from GPS Trackit makes the process as painless as possible with a convenient Roadside Inspection portal. In this portal, a DOT officer can review logs for the current 24-hour period and the previous 7 consecutive days, receive a copy of the driver’s logs via email and view vehicle inspections.

Once you select an ELD provider, they will be responsible for supplying the ELD devices, compliant logbook software and ongoing support. It’s important to choose a provider that offers unlimited training and can be with your fleet through every step of the implementation process, both of which GPS Trackit offers free of charge.

A GPS vehicle tracking system is not necessary for compliance with the ELD mandate. That said, GPS-based fleet software can offer many benefits and significant savings for any ELD-enabled fleet. Check out our fleet management solutions to learn more.

Good question. While price important, it shouldn’t be the only factor in your decision to purchase a solution for your fleet. Let one of GPS Trackit’s Fleet Advisors take you through a demo of what an ELD system can do for your fleet, plus go over any questions you might have on cost or implementation. Additionally, you can take a look at our Pricing & Packages section for further detail.

Since its inception, the ELD rule has gained plenty of supporters and dissenters. While the former cites the rule’s anti-harassment protections, the latter focus on the difficulty and cost of compliance. Though the debate may rage on for years to come, the fact is that the ELD mandate is now law. With the mandatory compliance rule rapidly approaching, getting ELD compliant now is more crucial than ever.

There are only a few exceptions to mandatory ELD implementation. The following drivers may qualify for an exemption:

• 100 Air-Mile Radius Drivers. Drivers using the 395.1(e) logbook timecard exceptions (short-haul drivers)
• Drive-Away/Tow-Away Drivers. Drivers transporting a vehicle for an operation (repair, sale, etc.) wherein the vehicle itself is the product being shipped.
• Pre-2000 Model Drivers. Drivers operating vehicles manufactured prior to the model year 2000.
• Limited Log Usage Drivers. Drivers whose paper log usage does not exceed 8 days in a 30-day period.

Even if you or your drivers qualify for an exemption, you will still be expected to provide authorized safety officials with any motor carrier records they require.

Yes. Unless they qualify for an exemption, drivers from Canada and/or Mexico must use a compliant electronic logging system to record their HOS when operating in the United States of America.

ELD installation is simple and can be completed in a matter of minutes. Drivers should consider installing their ELD system as soon as possible to give themselves plenty of time to become accustomed to electronic logs.

We’re currently in what the FMCSA has dubbed the “Awareness and Transition Phase”. While ELD use is not totally mandatory yet, drivers and fleets are expected to use this time to transition to electronic logging. Here’s what to expect in the coming years:

• December 2015: Publication. The ELD mandate was published. During this first phase, drivers were allowed to still use paper logs, logging software and Automatic On-Board Recording Devices (AOBRDs) to record their HOS. Fleet owners and managers were encouraged to use this opportunity to research ELD providers and introduce the use of ELDs to their fleets.
• December 2017: Compliance Deadline. ELD use became mandatory for all except those using exempt AOBRDs.This began a two-year phase involving the phasing out of most non-ELD forms of logging. The exception to this will be AOBRDs that were installed before the start of Phase Two. Under the ELD rule’s grandfather clause, users of these AOBRDs will be given an extra two years to become compliant.
• December 2019: Full Compliance. Use of registered ELDs becomes mandatory.As of December 16, 2019, the use of registered ELDs will be mandatory and enforced for all carriers subject to the ELD rule.

Selecting and introducing an ELD system can be both time-consuming, especially if you have a larger fleet. Finding the right ELD provider, training your drivers, and establishing an accountability and reporting process to ensure compliance can’t be accomplished in one or two business days. This is why it’s essential to plan ahead. If you wait too long and rush the implementation, you could risk losing out on profits and productivity in the frenzy that will likely follow.