The “California ELD mandate” refers to the state-specific regulations and requirements in California related to the use of Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs) by commercial motor vehicle operators. In California, intrastate commercial drivers currently have the obligation to log their hours of service (HoS). However, they have the option to utilize traditional paper logs rather than the electronic logging devices (ELDs) mandated by the FMCSA for interstate commercial drivers.
California is aligning itself with the FMCSA’s ELD mandate and is set to require intrastate commercial drivers to make the switch from paper logs to ELDs. The enforcement of this requirement is slated to commence on January 1, 2024.
The rationale behind California’s decision to implement this shift is multifaceted. Firstly, it’s noteworthy that California is the final state to adopt an ELD mandate for its intrastate commercial drivers. The primary motivations for this transition, as stated in the California Highway Patrol’s (CHP) Notice of Proposed Regulation, are to improve the safe operation of motor vehicles, enhance the competitiveness of California carriers, and harmonize the state’s regulations with the updated federal regulations. This rulemaking is intended to mitigate conflicts between state and federal regulations, minimize adverse impacts on businesses, and ensure consistency with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSR) established by the United States Department of Transportation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is exempt from ELD in California?
Some of the exemptions include drivers engaged in CMV driveway towaway operations, those transporting motor vehicles or empty/unladen vehicles, operators of CMVs manufactured prior to model year 2000, or CMVs manufactured in model year 2000 (or later) with an engine replacement predating model year 2000, as well as drivers who do not operate a CMV for more than 8 days within a 30-day period. You can find a full list of the exemptions in this document.
What is the ELD mandate in California 2024?
Starting from January 1, 2024, any motor carrier operating commercial motor vehicles must implement and mandate the use of Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs) for recording the driver’s Records of Duty Status (RODS).