Key Takeways
- HOS rules set strict limits on driving hours to prevent fatigue and enhance road safety.
- The primary restrictions include an 11-hour driving cap, a 14-hour duty limit, and a mandatory 30-minute break.
- Drivers must follow weekly limits of 60 hours in 7 days or 70 hours in 8 days, with the option to reset using the 34-hour restart rule.
- Certain exemptions apply, including short-haul drivers, farm vehicle operators, and CMVs manufactured before 2000.
- Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs) are mandatory for most drivers to ensure accurate HOS tracking and compliance.
What Are Hours of Service (HOS)?
HOS regulations define the maximum number of hours a commercial truck driver can drive or be on duty within a given period. These rules aim to reduce fatigue-related accidents and ensure safer roadways.
Key Functions of HOS Rules:
- Limit maximum driving hours to prevent exhaustion.
- Mandate rest breaks to ensure drivers remain alert.
- Promote road safety for all travelers.
Who Must Follow HOS Rules?
HOS regulations apply to drivers of Commercial Motor Vehicles (CMVs) that meet any of the following conditions:
- The vehicle weighs 10,001 pounds or more.
- It transports hazardous materials requiring a placard.
- It is designed to carry 8+ passengers (for hire) or 15+ passengers (not for hire).
Drivers operating such vehicles must comply with all HOS regulations to avoid legal and financial consequences.
Who Is Exempt from HOS Rules?
Certain drivers are exempt from HOS requirements due to their operational scope. These include:
Short-Haul Drivers
- Operate within a 150-air-mile radius.
- Must return to the original work location within 14 hours.
Pre-2000 Model Truck Operators
- Vehicles manufactured before the year 2000 are exempt from ELD requirements and certain HOS rules.
Driveaway-Towaway Drivers
- Operators who transport a vehicle as cargo do not need to follow HOS regulations.
Farm Vehicle Drivers
- Truck operators transporting agricultural goods within 150 air miles of their farm are exempt.
Understanding these exemptions helps drivers and fleet managers determine whether HOS rules apply to their operations.
Key HOS Rules for Truck Drivers
11-Hour Driving Limit
- Drivers may operate a CMV for up to 11 hours after taking 10 consecutive hours off-duty.
- Example: If driving starts at 6:00 AM, the driver must stop by 5:00 PM if they reach 11 total hours.
- Violation Consequences:
- Fines up to $10,000.
- Immediate out-of-service orders.
14-Hour On-Duty Limit
- Drivers cannot work for more than 14 hours in a row, regardless of breaks taken.
- Example: A driver starting at 7:00 AM must end their shift by 9:00 PM, even if they have not driven the full 11 hours.
- Violation Consequences:
- Fines up to $16,000.
- Company compliance audits.
30-Minute Mandatory Break
- Drivers must take a 30-minute break after driving for 8 consecutive hours.
- Break options:
- Off-duty time.
- On-duty but not driving (e.g., waiting for cargo loading).
- Violation Consequences:
- Fines ranging from $500 to $2,000.
- Possible out-of-service orders.
60/70-Hour Weekly Limit
- Drivers may not work more than 60 hours in 7 days or 70 hours in 8 days.
- Reset Option:
- Taking 34 consecutive off-duty hours resets the workweek.
- Violation Consequences:
- Fines up to $11,000.
- Negative impact on company safety scores.
HOS Exceptions and Special Cases
Sleeper Berth Provision
- Allows drivers to split their 10-hour off-duty period into two segments:
- One break must be at least 7 hours in the sleeper berth.
- The second break must be at least 2 consecutive hours (off-duty or in the sleeper berth).
- Failure to comply results in HOS violations and fines.
Short-Haul Exemption (150 Air Miles)
- Short-haul drivers within a 150-mile radius who return within 14 hours do not need ELDs or logbooks.
- Exceeding the 150-mile limit requires full HOS compliance.
Adverse Driving Conditions Exception
- Allows drivers to extend their 11-hour driving limit by 2 hours in cases of bad weather or road closures.
- Misuse of this rule results in serious penalties.
Electronic Logging Device (ELD) Requirements
ELDs are mandatory for commercial drivers who must track their HOS compliance.
Who Is Exempt from ELD Requirements?
- Short-haul drivers within a 150-mile radius.
- Drivers using paper logs for fewer than 8 days per month.
- Vehicles built before 2000.
Failure to use an ELD when required results in:
- Fines up to $10,000.
- DOT inspections and penalties.
How to Avoid HOS Violations and Penalties
Common HOS Violations & Consequences:
- Driving beyond 11-hour or 14-hour limits → Fines up to $10,000.
- Failing to take required rest breaks → Immediate out-of-service orders.
- Not using an ELD when required → Heavy penalties, possible vehicle impoundment.
Best Practices for Avoiding HOS Penalties:
- Use an ELD for accurate tracking.
- Plan routes and rest breaks ahead of time.
- Stay updated on HOS rule changes.
- Keep logbooks and ELD records accurate.
How HOS Rules Impact Fleet Operations
Why HOS Compliance Matters for Trucking Companies:
- Reduces legal and financial risks.
- Prevents FMCSA penalties.
- Ensures well-rested, safe drivers.
Also Read :- How To Start Trucking Business
Fleet Managers Should:
- Monitor driver HOS compliance via ELD reports.
- Train drivers on HOS rules and penalties.
- Plan delivery schedules efficiently to avoid violations.
FAQ
What happens if a driver exceeds the 11-hour driving limit?
The driver may face fines up to $10,000 and an out-of-service order.
Can a driver take multiple short breaks instead of a 30-minute break?
No, the 30-minute break must be continuous after 8 consecutive driving hours.
How does the 34-hour restart rule work?
It resets the weekly 60/70-hour limit after 34 consecutive off-duty hours.
Are team drivers allowed to split their sleeper berth time?
Yes, team drivers can split their 10-hour rest period using the sleeper berth rule.
What are the penalties for not using an ELD when required?
Penalties include fines up to $10,000, DOT inspections, and possible vehicle impoundment.
James Johnson is a former truck driver who now works as a writer, specializing in the trucking industry. With over 15 years of experience on the road, James has a unique perspective on the challenges and opportunities faced by truck drivers and the trucking industry as a whole. His writing focuses on issues such as safety, regulation, and the latest industry trends. His work has been featured in several trucking publications and he has received recognition for his contributions to the industry. In his free time, James still enjoys being around trucks and often attends truck shows and other industry events.