Hours of Service

Understanding Hours of Service (HOS) Regulations in Trucking

ELD Display inside a semi

ELD Display inside a semi

What Are Hours of Service (HOS) Regulations?

Hours of Service (HOS) regulations are rules established by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to limit the number of hours commercial drivers can operate. These rules aim to prevent fatigue-related accidents and ensure both public safety and driver health. Understanding and complying with HOS is critical for owner-operators and fleet managers.

Key HOS Rules Every Driver Should Know

  1. 14-Hour Driving Window: Drivers can operate for up to 11 hours within a 14-hour window after taking 10 consecutive hours off duty.
  2. 30-Minute Break: A 30-minute rest is mandatory after 8 hours of continuous driving without a break.
  3. 60/70-Hour Limit: A driver cannot exceed 60 hours in 7 days or 70 hours in 8 days. A 34-hour reset is allowed to restart the cycle.
  4. Sleeper Berth Provision: Drivers may split their required 10-hour off-duty time into two periods (e.g., 8+2). Neither period counts against the 14-hour window when used correctly.

Best Practices to Stay HOS Compliant

  • Plan Routes Wisely: Consider traffic, delivery times, and rest areas to avoid running out of hours unexpectedly.
  • Use ELD Technology: Electronic Logging Devices ensure accurate, real-time tracking of duty status and help avoid manual logging errors.
  • Stay Informed: HOS rules may evolve. Always stay current with FMCSA updates and state regulations.
  • Prioritize Rest: Maintain healthy sleep habits and rest when needed to avoid fatigue.
  • Educate Your Team: Ongoing training ensures all drivers understand HOS and operate in full compliance.

Avoiding HOS Violations

Monitoring your driving hours with precision is essential. Violations can lead to fines, inspections, or even being placed out of service. Prioritize safety and follow proper logging procedures to maintain both compliance and operational efficiency.

Conclusion

Adhering to Hours of Service regulations isn’t just about compliance—it’s about safety. By understanding FMCSA rules and using tools like ELDs, truck drivers can manage fatigue, reduce risks, and ensure successful long-hauls. At Freight Girlz, we support drivers with real-time load planning and dispatch strategies to keep you compliant and profitable.