With the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s (FMCSA) electronic logging device (ELD) mandate rapidly approaching, drivers need to be sure their ELD is compliant with the ruling. Not all ELDs available on the market meet the FMCSA’s requirements so drivers need to familiarize themselves with the specifications. Further, some older ELDs have been grandfathered in temporarily, but will have to be replaced before long.

ELD Requirements

An ELD must possess and be able to perform the following features and functions:

  • ELDs must provide separate accounts for drivers and administrators
  • ELDs must synchronize with the engine control module as well as record the status of the engine’s power, vehicle motion, and more by design
  • ELDs must be able to correctly record the vehicle’s location within a one-mile radius while on duty
  • When a driver is using the vehicle for authorized personal use, the ELD location precision decreases to a 10-mile radius
  • ELDs must retain information relating to the past 24 hours as well as the preceding seven successive days
  • ELDs must be tamper-proof so individuals cannot modify or expunge data gathered for ELD records
  • Drivers must be able to assess unknown driver records to either confirm or deny that the records belong to them
  • ELDs must be able to supply a driver’s record on request via printout or electronic file
  • ELDs must be able to perform electronic transfers via one of two routes: a wireless web service/email or via a USB/Bluetooth device
  • ELDs must display all necessary information via printout or screen display when approved safety officials request it
  • Drivers must keep written details for any edits made to their records by themselves or an administrator
  • ELDs must certify records after each 24-hour period
  • ELDs must come with a user manual to learn how to use the device as well as rectify errors and glitches
  • ELDs should provide options to change the volume including a mute selection

Using Your ELD

Once a driver has an ELD installed, he or she will need to learn how to use the device. There will be a learning curve, but fleets can reduce the amount of time it takes by ensuring drivers familiarize themselves with how to:

  • Log in
  • Manage unassigned hours the ELD registers
  • Record changes in duty status
  • Edit records and add notes explaining the changes
  • Certify records as complete and precise
  • Access RODs information
  • Review the ELD printout or display data
  • Transfer ELD data to authorized officials
  • Fix diagnostic issues and report malfunctions

To learn more about ELD solutions that work, contact Driver Check today.