Understanding the Latest Hours-of-Service (HOS) Regulations

In the trucking industry, safety and compliance are extremely important. The Hours-of-Service (HOS) regulations set by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) are designed to prevent accidents caused by driver fatigue. For truck drivers and fleet owners, staying up-to-date with these regulations is essential to avoid fines, penalties, and to ensure the safety of everyone on the road.

This article, developed in collaboration with Dispatch66, breaks down the current HOS rules and provides guidance on maintaining compliance effectively.

Overview of HOS Regulations

The HOS regulations govern the working hours of anyone operating a commercial motor vehicle (CMV) in the United States. These rules dictate how long a driver can be on duty, how many hours they can drive and when they should take breaks.

Key Definitions

• On-Duty Time: Drivers are required to be ready to work until they are relieved from work and all responsibility for performing work.

• Off-Duty Time: Any time the driver is not working or required to be ready to work.

• Sleeper Berth: A sleeping compartment that meets specific requirements, used by the driver to rest.

Current HOS Rules for Property-Carrying Drivers

1. 11-Hour Driving Limit

• Rule: Drivers may drive a maximum of 11 hours after 10 consecutive hours off duty.

• Purpose: Ensures drivers have adequate rest before operating a CMV.

2. 14-Hour On-Duty Limit

• Rule: Drivers cannot drive beyond the 14th consecutive hour after coming on duty, following 10 consecutive hours off duty. Off-duty time does not extend the 14-hour period.

• Example: If a driver starts their day at 6:00 AM, they cannot drive after 8:00 PM, even if they took breaks during the day.

3. 30-Minute Rest Break Requirement

• Rule: Drivers must take a 30-minute break after 8 cumulative hours of driving time without at least a 30-minute interruption.

• Options for Break: The break can be satisfied by any non-driving period, including off-duty, sleeper berth or on-duty not driving time.

• Purpose: Helps reduce fatigue by ensuring drivers take time to rest during their shift.

4. 60/70-Hour Duty Limit

• Rule:

  • 60-Hour Limit: Drivers cannot drive after 60 hours on duty in 7 consecutive days.

  • 70-Hour Limit: Drivers cannot drive after 70 hours on duty in 8 consecutive days.

• Restart Provision: Drivers can reset their 7 or 8-day period by taking 34 or more consecutive hours off duty.

5. Sleeper Berth Provision

• Rule: Drivers using the sleeper berth provision must take at least 10 hours off duty, but this can be split into two periods:

  • One period of at least 7 consecutive hours in the sleeper berth.

  • A second period of at least 2 consecutive hours off duty, whether in the sleeper berth or not.

• Combined Effect: Neither rest period counts against the 14-hour driving window.

6. Adverse Driving Conditions Exception

• Rule: Allows drivers to extend the driving limit and on-duty limit by up to 2 hours when unexpected adverse driving conditions are encountered.

• Conditions: Applies to weather or road conditions that could not have been known before the driver started driving.

7. Short-Haul Exception

• Rule: For drivers who qualify, the short-haul exception relaxes certain HOS requirements:

  • Extends the on-duty period from 12 to 14 hours.

  • Expands the air-mile radius from 100 to 150 air miles.

• Requirements to Qualify:

  • The driver must start and return to the same location within 14 hours.

  • Must have at least 10 consecutive hours off duty between shifts.

Tips for Maintaining Compliance

1. Use Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs)

• Mandate: FMCSA requires most drivers to use ELDs to record driving hours automatically.

• Benefits:

  • Reduces paperwork.

  • Minimizes errors in logbooks.

  • Provides real-time tracking of HOS compliance.

2. Plan Routes and Schedules Carefully

• Avoid Violations:

  • Account for traffic, weather and loading/unloading times.

  • Schedule rest breaks and off-duty periods in advance.

• Use Technology:

  • GPS and route planning software can help optimize schedules.

3. Stay Informed About Regulations

• Regular Updates:

  • Regulations may change; stay informed through FMCSA announcements.

• Training:

  • Attend regular training sessions on HOS rules.

  • Encourage open communication about compliance within your organization.

4. Implement a Fatigue Management Program

• Purpose: Goes beyond compliance to ensure drivers are well-rested.

• Strategies:

  • Educate drivers about the importance of sleep.

  • Promote healthy lifestyles that support good sleep habits.

  • Monitor signs of fatigue and address them promptly.

5. Keep Accurate Records

• Documentation:

  • Maintain records of duty status (RODS) for at least six months.

• Audits:

  • Regularly audit logs for accuracy and completeness.

  • Correct any discrepancies immediately.

6. Understand and Use Exceptions Appropriately

• Adverse Conditions: Know when and how to apply the adverse driving conditions exception.

• Short-Haul Exceptions: Ensure drivers meet all criteria before using the short-haul exception.

Consequences of Non-Compliance

• Fines and Penalties:

  • Violations can result in substantial fines for both drivers and carriers.

• Out-of-Service Orders:

  • Drivers may be placed out of service, leading to delivery delays.

• Impact on Safety Rating:

  • Repeated violations can negatively affect a carrier's safety rating, impacting business opportunities.

• Legal Liability:

  • Non-compliance can increase liability in the event of an accident.

Conclusion

Staying compliant with the Hours-of-Service regulations is essential for the safety of drivers and the public, as well as for the financial health of trucking businesses. By understanding the current HOS rules and implementing effective compliance strategies, drivers and fleet owners can avoid fines and penalties, maintain good safety records, and contribute to a safer transportation industry. With the support of a trusted dispatch service like Dispatch66, you can streamline your operations and ensure your team remains compliant and efficient.

Take proactive steps today to ensure you and your team are up-to-date with HOS regulations. Safety and compliance are not just legal requirements—they're the foundation of a successful trucking operation, made easier with Dispatch66 by your side.