What are the California hours-of-service rules?

Guides A Deep Dive into Hours-of-Service Rules Frequently Asked Questions – HOS What are the California hours-of-service rules?

In California, CDL drivers have to follow two sets of rules, one for intrastate and one for interstate.

California intrastate HOS rules

For intrastate trips (according to California hours-of-service guidelines): 

  • Drivers can’t exceed 12 hours of driving after being off duty for at least 10 consecutive hours. 
  • Drivers must stop driving for at least 10 hours after 16 hours of work (driving or not). 
  • Drivers aren’t permitted to drive after being on duty for 80 hours in any given consecutive eight-day period.

California interstate FMCSA guidelines

For interstate trips (according to FMCSA guidelines):

  • As long as they’ve been off duty for at least 10 consecutive hours, drivers can be on duty for up to 14 consecutive hours. This 14-hour work window begins as soon as the driver begins their shift, whether they’re driving or not. 
  • Drivers can only be behind the wheel for up to 11 hours during the 14-hour work window.
  • If it’s been eight or more hours since their last break, truckers must take a break of at least 30 minutes. 
  • Drivers may not drive after having accumulated 60 hours in a seven day period (for motor carriers that do not operate every day of the week) or 60 hours in eight days (for carriers that operate every day of the week).