Electronic Logging Devices

Electronic Logging Device (ELD) Mandate – FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQs)

Question: When does the mandate take effect?

Answer: December of 2017, unless you have existing ELD like devices that meet the current AOBRD rule in Part 395.15. If so, you may continue to use those devices until December of 2019.

Question: Are there exemptions to the new rule?

Answer: Yes, there are limited exemptions:

You are exempt if operating a truck older than 2000 model year.
You are also exempt if you are not required to keep a log more than 8 days in a rolling 30-day period.
You are exempt if you meet the exception to use time records in lieu of RODS (Part 395.1 (e)) short haul operations.
You are exempt if a drive away/tow away operation where the vehicle is the product delivered.

Question: Am I exempt from the ELD Mandate because I stay in Maine and within 100 air miles, and do not transport placarded amounts of hazmat?

Answer: Yes. If exempt from HOS currently, you are exempt from ELDs.

Question: I am a private carrier (not for hire), am I exempt from ELDs?

Answer: No. If you currently are required to keep log books, the ELD mandate applies.

Question: What happens if my ELD malfunctions?

Answer: You have to recreate the current days log and the previous 7 days on paper, if they are not retrievable from the ELD. ELDs must be repaired within 8 days, unless granted an FMCSA approved extension.

Question: Where can I obtain and ELD and what are the costs?

Answer: ELD’s are available from a variety of sources. You can google ELD or check with other motor carriers for references. Doing homework is suggested as ELDs can serve greater purposes to assist motor carriers with other compliance such as IFTA/IRP. Cost varies but is coming down due to competition.

Question: Are there protections in the mandate to protect drivers from harassment?

Answer: Yes. The final rule contains several protections. See ATA summary for further information.

Question: How can I determine the model year of my tractor in order to know if I’m exempt based on the model year?

Answer: FMCSA amended the regulation to allow for the model year to be determined by the VIN of the tractor as shown on the registration. The 10^th digit indicates the model year. This is especially helpful for determining the model year of glider kits.

Question: Where can I get more information regarding the mandate?

Answer: See the published ATA Summary or contact MMTA staff.