The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) sets strict Hours of Service (HOS) regulations to ensure driver safety and reduce fatigue-related accidents. While the 14-hour duty rule is often misunderstood, it does not allow drivers to drive for 14 hours in one day. Under the HOS rules, a driver may drive a maximum of 11 hours during a 14-hour duty period, which begins after coming on duty following a 10-hour off-duty break. Within this 14-hour window, all driving must be completed, but the total driving time cannot exceed 11 hours.
For example, if a driver starts their shift at 6:00 a.m., their 14-hour duty period ends at 8:00 p.m. During this window, they can drive for a maximum of 11 hours and must take a 30-minute break after 8 cumulative driving hours. Non-driving tasks such as loading, unloading, or resting do not extend the 14-hour window. Exceptions exist for specific conditions, such as the 16-hour short-haul exception, which applies under limited circumstances for certain local drivers. However, the 11-hour driving limit remains unchanged.
TruckX’s Electronic Logging Device (ELD) simplifies compliance with these rules by automatically tracking driving hours, rest breaks, and duty periods. Real-time alerts notify drivers when they approach HOS limits, ensuring they remain compliant and avoid costly violations. TruckX’s tools help fleets prioritize safety, reduce fatigue risks, and maintain adherence to FMCSA regulations.
