Hours of Service
Optimize fleet operations with expert guidance on hours-of-service compliance and regulations.
Managing Hours of Service (HOS) compliance is critical for fleet operators to avoid costly violations and keep drivers safe. Fleet Safety Services offers expert guidance and tools to ensure your drivers stay compliant with federal regulations while maintaining efficiency on the road
Key Information on Hours of Service Compliance
- Stay compliant with FMCSA regulations to avoid penalties and fines.
- Reduce driver fatigue and improve road safety.
- Utilize ELD (Electronic Logging Device) solutions for accurate tracking.
- Maintain proper records to streamline audits and inspections.
Understanding Hours of Service Regulations
Understanding HOS rules is crucial for compliance and safety. Below is a breakdown of key regulations that every fleet operator and driver should know.
Basic HOS Limits
- Drivers can drive a maximum of 11 hours after 10 consecutive hours off duty.
- A driver may not drive beyond the 14th consecutive hour after coming on duty.
Rest Breaks
- A driver may drive only if 8 hours or less have passed since the last off-duty or sleeper-berth period of at least 30 minutes.
- This break must be taken before reaching 8 cumulative hours of driving time.
Daily Driving Limit
The maximum daily driving limit is 11 hours within a 14-hour window after coming on duty.
Weekly Driving Limit
Drivers cannot drive after 60 hours in 7 consecutive days (or 70 hours in 8 consecutive days if the motor carrier operates daily).
Sleeper Berth Provision
- Drivers must take at least 8 consecutive hours in the sleeper berth, plus 2 additional consecutive hours in any combination of sleeper berth or off-duty time.
- The two hours spent in the sleeper berth can be split into two separate periods, provided neither is less than 30 minutes.
Exemptions and Exceptions
- Short-haul drivers (operating within a 150-air-mile radius) follow different HOS rules.
- Some industries, such as agriculture, have specific exemptions
Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs)
- Most commercial drivers must use ELDs to replace paper logbooks.
- ELDs automatically record driving time and track compliance.
Enforcement and Penalties
- FMCSA & law enforcement monitor HOS compliance via roadside inspections and electronic logs.
- Violations can result in fines, citations, or out-of-service orders for drivers and carriers.