Understanding Hours of Service (HOS) Regulations in Trucking

Understanding Hours of Service (HOS) Regulations in Trucking

FMCSA HOS rules exist to prevent fatigue, protect lives, and keep freight moving safely. This guide breaks down the 14-hour window, 11-hour drive limit, 30-minute break, 60/70-hour limits, and the sleeper-berth split—with dispatcher tips to stay compliant.

Truck driver reviewing HOS logbook and ELD on tablet HOS helps prevent fatigue-related crashes and improves carrier safety metrics.

🕒 Introduction to Hours of Service (HOS)

Hours of Service (HOS) regulations set how long a commercial driver may drive or be on duty. Whether you’re an owner-operator or fleet dispatcher, mastering HOS is essential for safety, RPMs, and your CSA profile.

📋 Key HOS Regulations Explained

  1. 14-Hour Window: Up to 11 hours driving within a 14-hour on-duty window after 10 consecutive hours off-duty.
  2. 30-Minute Break: Take a 30-minute off-duty/sleeper break after 8 hours of driving without a break.
  3. 60/70-Hour Rule: No driving after 60 hours on duty in 7 days or 70 hours in 8 days—until you take a 34-hour restart.
  4. Sleeper-Berth Split: You may split the 10 hours off into 8/2 or 7/3 if used correctly to pause the 14-hour clock.
Tip: Use your ELD’s yard move and personal conveyance settings correctly; misuse can trigger violations and audit risk.

✅ Best Practices for Staying Compliant

  • Plan smart: Build in buffers for traffic, docks, and weather. Align pickup → break → delivery.
  • Use ELDs well: Review drive/on-duty trends daily; lock logs; annotate exceptions clearly.
  • Stay informed: Review FMCSA updates and exemptions periodically.
  • Rest well: Consistent sleep routines enhance alertness and lane control.
  • Train the team: Dispatch + drivers should rehearse sleeper-split scenarios and trip plans.
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🚨 Avoiding HOS Violations

Violations create fines, out-of-service orders, detention, and score damage. Keep precise logs, follow break schedules, and never trade compliance for speed. Dispatch should spot risky plans early and adjust before wheels roll.

Compliance note: HOS is codified under 49 CFR Part 395. Keep RODS current and retain supporting documents per the rule.

⏱️ Quick Reference: Core Limits

Rule Limit Reset / Notes
Driving within duty window 11 hours Inside the 14-hour window after 10 off
On-duty window 14 hours Starts after 10 consecutive hours off-duty
Break 30 minutes After 8 hours of driving without a break
Weekly limit 60/70 hours 7/8 days; 34-hour restart resets
Sleeper-berth split 8/2 or 7/3 Used correctly, pauses the 14-hour clock

This quick sheet is for general awareness—always follow your ELD prompts and carrier policy.

❓ HOS FAQ

Does a 34-hour restart have to include two nights?

No. A compliant, continuous 34 hours off-duty resets your 60/70-hour cycle. Follow your carrier policy if stricter.

Can personal conveyance pause my 14-hour window?

No. Personal conveyance is off-duty movement for personal reasons and does not extend or pause the 14-hour window.

How does the 7/3 or 8/2 split actually help?

The qualifying split pauses the 14-hour clock between the paired periods. The two parts must add to 10 and meet the minimum lengths.

What if a shipper delays me past my available hours?

Communicate proactively with dispatch, annotate the ELD, and reschedule. Consider safe parking and HOS-compliant delivery windows.

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