Get ready California drivers: Intrastate ELD use is required on January 1

In a few short weeks, intrastate drivers in California will be required to use electronic logging devices (ELDs). The California Highway Patrol (CHP) has issued a final rule, requiring ELD use by intrastate drivers on and after January 1, 2024.

The final rule requires the use of devices that meet the requirements in Part 395, Subpart B of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSRs) by drivers who currently use paper records of duty status to record their hours of service. It also requires that drivers be trained in the proper operation of these devices.

Drivers using an ELD must have a unique user account, assigned by the motor carrier. All entries related to the record of duty status must be entered and certified by the driver.

Exceptions

There are exceptions to the ELD requirement for:

• A driver operating a commercial motor vehicle in a manner requiring completion of a record of duty status on not more than 8 days within any 30-day period;
• A driver involved in a driveaway-towaway operation in which the vehicle being driven is part of the shipment being delivered;
• A vehicle manufactured before model year 2000, as reflected in the vehicle identification number (VIN) and as shown on the vehicle’s registration; and
• A motor carrier, driver, or vehicle subject to federal regulatory guidance, a waiver, or an exemption issued by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) which specifically exempts the use of an ELD.

Drivers who fall under one of the above exceptions must manually record their hours of service, using a paper logbook, automatic on-board recording device, or electronic logging software.

No changes to limits

While the final rule requires the use of ELDs for most intrastate drivers in California, CHP did not make any changes to the intrastate hours-of-service limits (on-duty, driving, and off-duty time) or applicability (who must comply).