You only have until December 16 to transition your full fleet to ELDs

While FMCSA still in Phase 2 of ELD Implementation, December 16, 2019, is a critical date as the AOBRD grandfather provision expires. This provision allows fleets that had AOBRDs installed in their trucks prior to December 18, 2017, to continue using AOBRDs for two years following the ELD Compliance Date. Beginning December 16, 2019, motor carriers and drivers subject to the ELD rule must use self-certified ELDs that are registered with FMCSA.

The ELD rule applies to motor carriers and drivers who are currently required to keep records of duty service (RODS) under the hours-of-service (HOS) regulations. Drivers who use the time card exception, and don’t keep paper RODs, will not be required to use ELDs. The following drivers may keep paper RODS:

  • Drivers who keep RODS no more than 8 days during any 30-day period.
  • Driveaway-towaway drivers (transporting a vehicle for sale, lease, or repair), provided the vehicle driven is part of the shipment or the vehicle being transported is a motor home or recreational vehicle trailer.
  • Drivers of vehicles manufactured before model year 2000.

However, a carrier can choose to use an ELD, even if it is not required.

Don’t wait—prepare now!

You can take steps now to avoid unforeseen delays, which could result in violations, fines, or drivers being placed out of service. To ensure you are prepared for the deadline:

  • Contact your AOBRD provider to discuss options for transitioning to ELDs.
  • Research the self-certified, registered ELDs on the market.
  • Update your device software and hardware, if needed, to ensure that, by December 16, all devices meet the minimum requirements of the technical specifications in the ELD rule.
  • Train your employees, including drivers and administrative staff, on how to use the ELDs you have selected to record, certify, manage, and transfer driver logs.

For more information on ELDs and AOBRDs, as well as tips on choosing a compliant ELD, visit the Drivers and Motor Carriers section of the ELD website.

An ELD must be able to either:

  • Transmit data using wireless Web services and email, or
  • Transfer data locally using a thumb or flash drive (USB2.0) and Bluetooth.

A driver must also be able to provide either the display or a printout to an authorized safety official on request. For more FAQs on the ELD Rule, please visit www.fmcsa.dot.gov/elds/faqs.


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