Hours of Service Rules Every Driver Should Know

Hours of Service (HOS) regulations might not be the most exciting aspect of your day-to-day, but they’re necessary for making sure you—and everyone around you—stay safe on the road. Enforced by the FMCSA, these rules help minimize fatigue-related accidents, keeping you sharp and preventing the dangerous effects of driving while drowsy. Following HOS regulations isn’t just about staying compliant; it’s about protecting yourself and others out there.

Let’s go over the latest HOS regulation updates and provide some practical tips to help you stay compliant and safe on the road.

Breaking Down the Latest HOS Rules

In 2020, HOS rules were updated with the goal of improving both safety and flexibility for drivers. Here’s what you need to know:

• 14-Hour Window: You have 14 hours from the time you begin your shift to finish driving. However, you can only spend 11 hours of that time driving, and the rest of the time is for breaks and non-driving activities.
• 11-Hour Limit: Within that 14-hour window, you can drive for a maximum of 11 hours. Once you reach that, you’ll need a 10-hour break before you can drive again.
• 30-Minute Break: After 8 hours of driving, take a 30-minute break. It can happen at any point within the 8-hour period, but you must take it before the 8-hour driving mark.
• 60/70-Hour Limit: You can’t drive for more than 60 hours in 7 days or 70 hours in 8 days. You’ll need at least 34 consecutive hours off, including two full nights of sleep between 1 a.m. and 5 a.m.
• Short Haul Exemption: If you’re within a 150-mile radius of your home terminal, you can skip the 14-hour window and don’t have to log your hours. However, the 11-hour limit and 30-minute break still apply.

How to Stay Safe and Compliant

Staying compliant with HOS doesn’t have to be complicated. Here are some simple tips to help you stay on top of the regulations:

1. Use Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs): These devices are required for most drivers and automatically log your driving hours, so you don’t have to manually keep track. They also alert you when you’re nearing your limits.
2. Plan Your Routes and Breaks: Take the time to map out your route and plan where you’ll take breaks. Factor in potential delays like traffic, weather, and rest stops so you’re always prepared.
3. Keep Your Records in Order: Keeping your logs accurate and up to date will save you time and stress. It’s not just about being compliant—it’s also about staying organized and prepared for any inspection or audit.
4. Communicate with Your Dispatcher: Keeping your dispatcher in the loop helps prevent scheduling conflicts and violations. If delays or changes come up, let them know immediately to avoid surprises.
5. Focus on Rest and Health: The rules are there to keep you safe, but so is your overall well-being. Getting enough sleep and staying in good health helps you remain alert and responsive on the road.
6. Educate Yourself and Your Team: Stay informed about the latest regulations and make sure everyone on your team is up to date. Ongoing training is vital to avoiding mistakes and building a culture of safety.

Final Thoughts

HOS rules are more than just a set of regulations—they’re designed to help you stay safe on the road. By following these rules, you’re not only staying compliant but also protecting yourself, your cargo, and everyone else you share the road with. With resources like the S.A.F.E. program, you have support to help you stay informed and within legal limits. Safety is more than a requirement—it’s a promise to get everyone home safe. Reach out to us today to learn more!