1. Motive Help Center
  2. Products
  3. Compliance

Drivers Exempt from the ELD Rule – FMCSA Guidelines

Updated

The FMCSA (Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration) mandates that most commercial motor vehicle (CMV) drivers must use Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs) to record their Hours of Service (HOS). However, some drivers are exempt from the ELD requirement under specific conditions.

This article outlines the current exemptions and includes references to official FMCSA regulations for clarity.

 

FMCSA-Approved ELD Exemptions

According to FMCSA guidelines, drivers are exempt from using ELDs under the following circumstances:

1. Short-Haul Exemption (Air-Mile Radius Drivers)

Drivers who operate under the short-haul exception defined in 49 CFR § 395.1(e) are exempt if:

  • They operate within a 100 air-mile radius (CDL drivers) or 150 air-mile radius (non-CDL drivers).
  • They return to the same work reporting location each day.
  • They complete their duty within 12 (CDL) or 14 (non-CDL) hours.
  • They are not required to maintain RODS for more than 8 days in any 30-day period.

2. Driveaway-Towaway Operations

Exempt if:

  • The vehicle being driven is part of the shipment (commodity).
  • The vehicle being transported is a motor home or recreational vehicle trailer.

(Reference: 49 CFR § 395.8(a)(1)(iii))

3. Vehicles Manufactured Before the Year 2000

  • CMVs with engine model year pre-2000 are not compatible with ELDs and are therefore exempt from the mandate.

(Reference: 49 CFR § 395.8(a)(1)(iii)(A))

4. Drivers Using Paper Logs for 8 Days or Less

  • Drivers who are required to maintain RODS for 8 or fewer days in a rolling 30-day period are not required to use ELDs.

(Reference: 49 CFR § 395.8(a)(1)(ii))

Configuring ELDs for Exempt Drivers

Even though exempt drivers are not required to use ELDs, if an ELD-equipped vehicle is shared by both exempt and non-exempt drivers, motor carriers can configure the ELD profile to mark the driver as exempt. This helps prevent unidentified driver log errors or data diagnostic issues on the system.

(Reference: FMCSA ELD Technical Specifications – 49 CFR § 395.22(h))

 

Drivers who are unsure whether they are exempt from the ELD Rule or the hours of service and duty period regulations should consult with their motor carrier or a qualified transportation safety professional.

Was this article helpful?

Share this with others