The 7/3 rule in trucking refers to the Sleeper Berth Provision under the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) Hours of Service (HOS) regulations. This rule allows drivers to split their mandatory 10-hour off-duty period into two segments: one of at least 7 consecutive hours spent in the sleeper berth and another of 3 straight hours either off-duty or in the sleeper berth.
This provision offers flexibility for drivers managing schedules and ensuring adequate rest while remaining compliant with HOS regulations. Both segments must add up to at least 10 hours, and neither period can interrupt the other. This split does not affect the driver’s 14-hour duty clock when used correctly. For example, a driver may spend 7 hours in the sleeper berth, resume driving for a few hours, and later take a 3-hour break in the sleeper berth or off-duty. These breaks pause the 14-hour duty clock, allowing more flexibility in managing driving and rest times.
The 7/3 rule is particularly beneficial for long-haul drivers, enabling better time management and helping reduce driver fatigue. However, tracking these split periods manually can be challenging and prone to errors.
TruckX’s Electronic Logging Device (ELD) simplifies HOS compliance by automatically tracking and recording rest periods, driving hours, and sleeper berth splits. With real-time insights and FMCSA-compliant features, TruckX ensures that drivers can confidently utilize the 7/3 split rule without risking violations or penalties, promoting safety and efficiency on the road.
