ELD Mandate Frequently Asked Questions
The ELD mandate deadline is coming up in less than a week, but many drivers still have questions about whether or not they are required to comply. It seems like the rules are changing daily — and it’s hard to keep track. The good news? We’ve created a simple ELD guide to tell you if you are exempt from the ELD mandate.
Check out our handy flowchart below, and keep reading for more information and resources to help you take your next steps toward ELD compliance.
Am I Exempt From the ELD Mandate?
According to FMCSA (as of August 22, 2017), “drivers who use the timecard exception are not required to keep records of duty status (RODS) or use ELDs.” This means the ELD rule applies to most truck drivers and motor carriers who are required to maintain RODS per part 395, 49 CFR 395.8(a). Only the following drivers are not required to use ELDs, but are still bound by the RODS requirements in 49 CFR 395:
- Drivers who use paper RODS, or who are required to keep RODS, for no more than 8 days of every 30-day period.
- Drivers of vehicles manufactured before 2000, as well as vehicles manufactured before the model year 2000 (as reflected on the vehicle’s registration). Keep in mind that the pre-2000 ELD exemption applies to engine model year, not the chassis.
- Drivers who conduct drive-away-tow-away operations in which the vehicle driven is the commodity being delivered, or the vehicle in transport is a motor home or a recreation vehicle trailer with one or more sets of wheels on the roadway.
- Motor carriers with operations that are exempt from the requirements of 395.8.
Agriculture Motor Carrier ELD Exemptions
When it comes to ELDs and agricultural motor carriers, FMCSA states that “motor carriers that meet the agricultural exemptions defined in 395.1 are not subject to Part 395, including the ELD rule while they are operating under the terms of the exemption.” You can find a list of HOS and agricultural ELD exemptions here.
I Have to Comply With the ELD Mandate…What’s Next?
If you have to comply with the ELD mandate, you need to do so by the ELD mandate deadline of December 18, 2017. Even though your time to become ELD compliant is dwindling, we can help you out. Grab our simple and affordable ELD, the My20 ELD, for $20 per month. With our quick, ten-minute checkout and next day shipping, you’ll be compliant in no time. Read more about the My20 ELD on our My20 ELD products page.
After you have secured your FMCSA-certified ELD, your next steps (according to the FMCSA’s ELD checklist for drivers) should be:
- Learn how to use your ELD.
- Complete user training provided by your company and/or the ELD vendor.
- Read the ELD user’s guide and other documents.
- Keep ELD user instructions/manual and supplies in your vehicle.
- Submit ELD supporting documents.