The FMCSA's ELD (Electronic Logging Device) mandate requires most commercial motor vehicle drivers to use an electronic device to record their hours of service instead of paper logs. Here's what you need to know as an owner-operator.
Who is required to use an ELD?
You must use an ELD if you operate a commercial motor vehicle (CMV) that:
- Has a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) or gross combination weight rating (GCWR) of more than 10,000 lbs, AND
- Is used in interstate commerce (crossing state lines), AND
- You are required to keep Records of Duty Status (RODS / logs)
ELD exemptions — you may NOT need one if:
- Short-haul exemption: You operate within a 150 air-mile radius of your home terminal and return to the same terminal within 14 consecutive hours. You may use timecards instead of logs.
- Old vehicles: Your engine was manufactured before model year 2000. These vehicles are exempt from ELD but must still use paper logs.
- Driveaway-towaway operations: Specific exemption for moving vehicles as cargo.
- 8-day rule: You use a RODS no more than 8 days in any 30-day period.
FMCSA-registered ELD providers
You must use an ELD that is registered with the FMCSA. The FMCSA maintains a list of compliant devices at eld.fmcsa.dot.gov. Popular options include:
- KeepTruckin / Motive — popular, user-friendly app
- Samsara — strong reporting features
- Rand McNally — trusted brand in trucking
- Geotab — enterprise-grade option
ELD violation consequences
Operating without a required ELD or using a non-compliant device can result in: out-of-service orders (you cannot move the vehicle), fines of up to $16,000 per violation, and CSA score violations that hurt your safety rating. Inspectors check ELD compliance at every weigh station and during roadside inspections.