Protect Your Fleet by Understanding FMCSA Updates

Keeping up with FMCSA regulations isn’t just about ticking boxes for compliance—it’s about keeping your drivers safe, your equipment in good shape, and your business running smoothly. With the FMCSA rolling out new rules and updating old ones, it’s crucial for fleet operators to stay ahead of the curve. Being proactive is the key, not being reactive.

Let’s dive into the latest FMCSA updates and what they mean for your fleet.

Changes to the Safety Measurement System (SMS)

The FMCSA is making significant changes to the Safety Measurement System (SMS), which is the scoring method behind CSA (Compliance, Safety, Accountability).

What’s changing:
Violation categories are getting consolidated for clearer understanding. New segmentation will better account for different types of carriers and operations. Scoring for BASICs (Behavior Analysis and Safety Improvement Categories) is being simplified to improve transparency.

What this means for your fleet:
If these changes go through, they could significantly impact how carriers are prioritized for interventions. Fleets with borderline scores may face more scrutiny or receive less attention. Now’s the time to clean up any recurring violations and review your safety data closely.

Drug & Alcohol Clearinghouse Enforcement Update

Starting in 2024, the FMCSA has fully integrated the Drug & Alcohol Clearinghouse with the CDL licensing process. Now, drivers with unresolved violations will automatically have their status downgraded in state systems.

What this means for your fleet:
Drivers who test positive and fail to complete the return-to-duty steps will be disqualified from operating without warning. Fleet managers need to stay up to date with Clearinghouse records and ensure that all follow-up actions are completed.

Tip: Set up alerts or partner with a third-party provider to monitor your drivers’ eligibility status on a daily basis.

New ELD Compliance Rules

The FMCSA is continuously updating its list of revoked ELDs, which are devices that no longer meet technical standards.

What this means for your fleet:
Using a revoked ELD puts you out of compliance. If you’re still running one of these outdated devices, you could be cited or even face an out-of-service order.

What to do:
Check the FMCSA’s revoked ELD list regularly. Choose ELD providers with a strong track record and solid tech support. Ensure your devices meet all the data transfer and display requirements.

Updates to Hours of Service (HOS) Rules

FMCSA has clarified some of the finer details on the split sleeper berth rule and short-haul exemption, especially for specialized operations.

What this means for your fleet:
Misunderstanding these exemptions can result in Hours of Service (HOS) violations. Smaller carriers or those with flexible routes are especially at risk.

Best practice: Train your drivers and dispatchers on how these rules apply to your specific operations. When in doubt, document everything and play it safe.

Tighter Enforcement on Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT)

FMCSA is tightening up enforcement of Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) for new CDL applicants and those seeking upgrades. All training providers must be registered, and records need to be submitted before a driver takes their skills test.

What this means for your fleet:
Hiring a driver who hasn’t completed the proper ELDT could disqualify them and hurt your audit score. If you run an in-house training program, make sure you’re listed on the Training Provider Registry and upload completion certificates promptly.

How to Stay Ahead of FMCSA Changes

FMCSA regulations are always evolving, and enforcement trends can shift just as fast. Here’s how you can stay ahead of the game:
Use tools like the My Fleet AI S.A.F.E. platform to track compliance and set up automated alerts. Join industry groups or sign up for newsletters from organizations like CVSA, ATA, or your state-level associations. Conduct quarterly internal audits to catch any potential issues before they affect your CSA scores or show up during roadside inspections.

Wrapping It Up

As FMCSA rules continue to evolve, so should your safety strategy. Whether you manage a small fleet or a nationwide operation, staying up to date with these changes is crucial for keeping your fleet on the road and out of trouble.

Need help navigating the latest rules or improving your compliance posture? Learn how My Fleet AI’s S.A.F.E. platform can make FMCSA compliance easy for your fleet.