How Many Hours Can a Trucker Legally Drive?
If you’re wondering, “How many hours can a trucker legally drive?”, the answer lies in the Hours of Service (HOS) regulations established by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). These rules are designed to prevent driver fatigue, reduce accidents, and ensure the safety of drivers and other road users.
For CDL companies, understanding these regulations is crucial to avoid costly fines, prevent driver disqualifications, and maintain a safe and compliant fleet. This guide will break down the key aspects of HOS regulations and explain how Driver Files Online can support your business in staying compliant.
What are Hours of Service (HOS) Regulations?
The FMCSA created Hours of Service (HOS) rules to limit the number of hours commercial truck drivers can drive without taking a break. The goal is to reduce driver fatigue, which is one of the leading causes of accidents involving commercial motor vehicles (CMVs).
HOS rules apply to drivers operating vehicles that meet one or more of the following criteria:
- Vehicles weighing 10,001 pounds or more
- Vehicles transporting hazardous materials
- Vehicles transporting 16 or more passengers
These regulations are enforced through electronic logging devices (ELDs) that track a driver’s on-duty and driving hours. Non-compliance can result in fines, penalties, or a reduction in the company’s safety rating.
How Many Hours Can a Trucker Legally Drive?
The FMCSA sets specific limits on how many hours can a trucker legally drive within a day or week. The key rules are as follows:
11-Hour Driving Limit
Under the HOS regulations, truckers can legally drive for up to 11 hours within a 14-hour workday. However, this driving period must be preceded by at least 10 consecutive off-duty hours. The 11-hour driving limit ensures that drivers do not operate a vehicle for an excessive amount of time without adequate rest.
14-Hour Workday Limit
The 14-hour rule restricts how many total hours a driver can work each day. Once a driver starts their shift, they have a 14-hour window to complete both their driving and non-driving tasks, such as loading and unloading. Even if the driver has off-duty breaks during this window, the 14-hour clock does not stop.
30-Minute Break Requirement
After driving for 8 consecutive hours, truck drivers must take a 30-minute off-duty break. This break is intended to reduce fatigue and allow drivers to rest before continuing their trip.
60/70-Hour Weekly Limit
HOS regulations also limit the number of hours a truck driver can work over a seven- or eight-day period:
- 60-hour/7-day limit: Drivers cannot drive after 60 on-duty hours in a 7-day period.
- 70-hour/8-day limit: Drivers cannot drive after 70 on-duty hours in an 8-day period.
Once this limit is reached, the driver must take a 34-hour restart, which resets the weekly clock and allows them to resume driving.
How Do HOS Rules Impact CDL Companies?
HOS regulations play a critical role in how CDL companies operate. Companies must ensure that their drivers follow these rules and avoid violations that could result in penalties, fines, or a lowered CSA (Compliance, Safety, Accountability) score. Here’s how these rules impact CDL businesses:
Driver Safety and Fatigue Management
Driver fatigue is one of the leading causes of accidents in the trucking industry. HOS rules aim to reduce fatigue by mandating breaks and rest periods. CDL companies that prioritize HOS compliance reduce the likelihood of accidents, protect their drivers, and maintain a good reputation in the industry.
Compliance Costs and Penalties
HOS violations can be costly. Fines for non-compliance can range from hundreds to thousands of dollars, and frequent violations can lower a company’s CSA score. A poor CSA score can affect business partnerships and result in increased insurance premiums.
Operational Efficiency
HOS rules can impact scheduling and route planning. Companies must account for driving limits when assigning routes to drivers. While these regulations may seem restrictive, efficient route planning can help maximize productivity while staying compliant.
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How Driver Files Online Can Help CDL Companies Stay Compliant
Managing driver compliance with HOS rules can be a time-consuming task for CDL companies. That’s where Driver Files Online comes in. Our software provides CDL companies with the tools they need to track compliance, reduce administrative burdens, and maintain a clean safety record.
Streamlined Driver Applications
Our online driver application portal helps CDL companies collect and organize DOT-compliant applications. With Driver Files Online, all driver details are complete, accurate, and ready for review, making it easy to stay compliant.
Access to PSP Reports
Driver Files Online provides access to Pre-Employment Screening Program (PSP) reports, which include a driver’s five-year crash and three-year inspection history. These insights help employers hire drivers with a strong safety record, reducing the risk of future violations.
Managed Services for Background Checks
Our managed services handle the process of verifying a driver’s previous employment, a task that is both time-sensitive and labor-intensive. This ensures that CDL companies meet DOT requirements without the administrative burden.
File MVR Reports
Driver Files Online delivers State Motor Vehicle Reports (MVRs) directly to your driver’s file. This allows employers to review a driver’s record before hiring and stay ahead of any potential issues with their qualifications.
Automated Compliance Reminders
Driver Files Online sends automated reminders for important deadlines, such as license renewals and medical certifications. These reminders ensure that CDL companies meet regulatory deadlines and avoid costly fines or penalties.
By signing up for Driver Files Online, CDL companies can focus on growing their operations while we help them stay compliant with federal regulations.
How Can Drivers Stay Compliant With HOS Rules?
Staying compliant with HOS rules requires consistent effort from both CDL drivers and their employers. Here are some best practices for ensuring compliance:
1. Use Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs)
Since ELDs are mandatory for most drivers, it’s essential to ensure that all drivers are properly trained on how to use them. ELDs automatically track driving and rest periods, making it easier to avoid unintentional violations.
2. Take Breaks as Required
To avoid violations, drivers must remember to take 30-minute breaks after 8 hours of driving. Drivers should plan routes with this break in mind to ensure it doesn’t disrupt the delivery schedule.
3. Monitor Weekly Driving Limits
Drivers should keep track of how many hours they’ve worked each week to avoid exceeding the 60/70-hour limits. Companies can assist by using automated reminders or software like Driver Files Online to ensure drivers stay on track.
LEARN MORE TIPS: How to Calculate MCS 150 Mileage for CDL Businesses
Sign Up and Stay Compliant With HOS Rules
Understanding how many hours can a trucker legally drive is essential for CDL drivers and companies alike. HOS rules ensure driver safety, reduce fatigue-related accidents, and protect CDL businesses from costly fines. For companies managing multiple drivers and vehicles, tracking compliance can be overwhelming. That’s where Driver Files Online comes in.
Our platform simplifies driver qualification, background checks, and compliance tracking, so CDL businesses can focus on their operations. From collecting driver applications to delivering MVR and PSP reports, Driver Files Online helps you stay on top of regulatory requirements.
Ready to streamline compliance for your CDL business? Driver Files Online can make compliance simple and stress-free.
Disclaimer:
This article is for informational purposes only. Always consult FMCSA regulations for the most up-to-date HOS requirements.
FAQS: How Many Hours Can a Trucker Legally Drive
How many hours a day can a trucker legally drive?
Truckers can legally drive for up to 11 hours within a 14-hour workday, but they must first take 10 consecutive off-duty hours.
How many hours can a truck driver drive legally?
Truckers are limited to 60 hours in 7 days or 70 hours in 8 days. After reaching this limit, they must take a 34-hour restart.
How many hours can a truck driver legally drive per week?
Truckers are limited to 60 hours in 7 days or 70 hours in 8 days. After reaching this limit, they must take a 34-hour restart.
What happens if a driver violates HOS rules?
HOS violations can result in fines, penalties, and a lower CSA score for the company. Repeat violations may result in disqualification for drivers or other enforcement actions.
How many hours can a truck driver have their partner join them?
This isn’t determined by hours. There are various authorities you need to check with before allowing anyone inside your company vehicle. Learn more about this from our guide: Can a Partner Stay With an Over the Road Trucker?
View our general FAQs if you have more questions.
