Guides / ELD Benefits, Providers, and FAQs / ELD FAQs / Do non-CDL drivers need an ELD?

Do non-CDL drivers need an ELD?

Non-CDL drivers who are operating under short-haul exemptions in 395.1(e) may qualify for FMCSA’s short-haul exception and aren’t required to keep record of duty status (RODS). Time cards can be used in place of ELD.

Motor carriers and drivers can only take advantage of the short-haul exemption if:

  • The driver operates within a 150 air-mile radius of their normal work reporting location.
  • The driver doesn’t exceed, and is released from work within 14 consecutive hours.
  • The driver begins and ends the workday at the same location. 
  • The driver has at least 10 consecutive hours off duty between each work shift.
  • The company keeps time records for all of its short-haul drivers for a minimum of six months that show start time, end time, and total work time for each work shift.

Who is a non-CDL driver?

A non-CDL driver is anyone with a standard driver’s license as opposed to a commercial driver’s license, or CDL. According to the FMCSA, in order to obtain a CDL, applicants must pass both skills and knowledge testing geared to higher standards than standard skills tests. 

FMCSA specifies that CDL holders are also held to a higher standard when operating any type of motor vehicle on public roads. Serious traffic violations committed by a CDL holder can affect their ability to maintain their CDL certification.