AOBRD vs. ELD: What’s the difference?

Key Takeaways

• AOBRDs are no longer compliant, and all fleets must switch to FMCSA-approved ELDs to avoid fines and penalties.
• ELDs ensure accurate HOS tracking by automating data collection, preventing log falsification, and improving compliance monitoring.
• Most commercial drivers must use ELDs, except for specific exemptions like older vehicles, short-haul drivers, and towaway operators.
• Matrack ELD simplifies compliance with a contract-free, cost-effective solution that offers real-time tracking, automated reports, and violation alerts.

Understanding AOBRDs and ELDs

What is an AOBRD?

An Automatic On-Board Recording Device (AOBRD) is an electronic system that records a driver’s Hours of Service (HOS) as required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). Established under the 1988 FMCSA regulations, AOBRDs helped motor carriers automate HOS record-keeping for compliance.

What is an ELD?

An Electronic Logging Device (ELD) is an updated system introduced by the 2017 ELD Mandate to replace AOBRDs. While both track driving hours for HOS compliance, ELDs offer stricter data collection, real-time tracking, and enhanced automation to prevent logbook manipulation and improve safety.

Key Differences Between AOBRDs and ELDs 

Key Differences	AOBRDs	ELDs
Compliance Requirements	Governed by 49 CFR 395.15, with more flexible compliance requirements.	Must comply with the 2015 FMCSA ELD Mandate under 49 CFR 395.20-38, with stricter data accuracy, connectivity, and security requirements.
Data Collection & Recording	Allowed manual entry of duty status changes with minimal automation.	Automatically record drive time and prevent manual adjustments to recorded data.
Connectivity & Integration	Required a connection to the vehicle’s engine but did not mandate synchronization with all vehicle movement data.	Must be directly synchronized with the vehicle’s engine control module (ECM) to capture movement data in real-time.
Data Retention & Transfer	Stored limited data and did not have standardized transfer protocols.	Must be capable of wireless data transfer (via telematics, Bluetooth, or USB) for roadside inspections.
Driver Edits & Annotations	Allowed drivers and carriers to modify records with fewer restrictions.	Permit annotations but restrict unauthorized data edits to prevent tampering.
Violation Alerts & Monitoring	Lacked automated violation alerts.	Provide real-time HOS violation alerts to prevent compliance breaches.
User Interface & Accessibility	Basic digital interfaces with limited driver interaction.	Feature touchscreen interfaces, mobile apps, GPS tracking, and real-time fleet management tools.
Mandatory Implementation Deadline	Grandfathered in until December 16, 2019.	Required for all commercial motor vehicles after the AOBRD phase-out deadline.

Are AOBRD Devices Still Compliant?

AOBRDs are no longer compliant as of December 16, 2019, per FMCSA regulations. All motor carriers and drivers subject to the ELD mandate must now use certified ELDs for Hours of Service (HOS) tracking.

Using AOBRDs after the deadline results in non-compliance, fines, and penalties. To operate legally, fleets must have transitioned to FMCSA-approved ELDs.

Also know more about: ELD Mandate 

Why You Should Switch from AOBRDs to ELDs

Improved Accuracy

ELDs automatically track driving hours, reducing errors in logbooks. This prevents log falsification and ensures compliance with HOS regulations.

Enhanced Safety

Real-time tracking alerts fleet managers to potential driver fatigue. This helps reduce accident risks from excessive driving hours.

Faster Compliance Inspections

Standardized electronic log transfer speeds up roadside inspections. This minimizes delays, fines, and compliance issues.

Increased Operational Efficiency

Fleet managers can track fuel usage, routes, and driver performance in real time. This helps lower costs and improve overall productivity.

Reduced Administrative Burden

ELDs eliminate paper logs and manual HOS calculations, saving time. Drivers, dispatchers, and compliance officers spend less time on paperwork.

Who Needs to Use an ELD?

As per the FMCSA ELD Mandate, most commercial motor vehicle (CMV) drivers must use an ELD, with a few exceptions.

ELD-Required Drivers:

• Interstate truck drivers operating CMVs weighing over 10,001 lbs.
• Drivers required to maintain RODS (Records of Duty Status) for more than 8 days in a 30-day period.
• Hazmat (Hazardous Materials) transport drivers.

ELD-Exempt Drivers:

• Drivers operating vehicles older than 2000 (ELDs require an ECM, which older vehicles lack).
• Short-haul drivers who operate within a 150-air-mile radius and return to the starting location within 14 hours.
• Driveaway-towaway operators, transporting a vehicle as a commodity.

Read More: ELD Exemptions 

Matrack ELD Solution For All Your Trucking Need

Matrack ELD Device ensures ELD compliance with real-time HOS tracking, DOT inspection mode, and fleet monitoring. It works with all vehicle types and provides accurate data transfer for inspections and audits.

With a free device and no contracts, businesses can stay compliant at a low monthly cost. Features like automated IFTA reporting, violation alerts, and fleet tracking help prevent fines and improve efficiency.

Conclusion 

Switching from AOBRDs to ELDs is mandatory for compliance with FMCSA regulations and ensures accurate HOS tracking, safety, and efficiency. Businesses using non-compliant AOBRDs risk fines, penalties, and operational disruptions.

The Matrack ELD Device offers a cost-effective, contract-free solution for full ELD compliance. With real-time tracking, automated reports, and violation alerts, it helps fleets operate legally while reducing administrative burden.