Everything You Need To Know About ELD Exemptions

Key Takeaways

• Drivers of older trucks, short-haul drivers, and agricultural haulers can qualify for ELD exemptions.
• ELD exemptions exist for situations where using ELDs is unnecessary or impractical.
• Drivers must check their operations and driving limits and keep proper documentation to qualify.
• Staying organized and using tools like Matrack ELD helps manage exemptions easily.

What are ELD Exemptions?

ELD exemptions are special rules that let some truck drivers operate without using an Electronic Logging Device (ELD). These rules are designed for certain situations, like short trips, old trucks, or specific types of hauling.

If a driver qualifies for an exemption, they can use paper logs or time cards instead of an ELD to track their work hours. Knowing these exemptions helps drivers stay legal and avoid fines. 

Common ELD Exemptions

Vehicles Manufactured Before 2000

Vehicles manufactured before 2000 are exempt from using ELDs because they don’t have the engine control module (ECM) required to run ELDs. The exemption no longer applies if the truck’s engine has been replaced with one from 2000 or later.

This exemption is based on the engine’s manufacturing date, not the vehicle’s year. Drivers don’t need proof of the vehicle’s age, but carriers must keep records of engine changes.

The 100 Air-Mile Exemption

The 100 air-mile exemption applies to drivers who operate within 100 air miles (115 road miles) of their starting location. To qualify, drivers must return to the exact location each day and finish their work within 12 hours.

Drivers cannot drive more than 11 hours daily and must take a 10-hour break before starting a new shift. If these conditions aren’t met, drivers must log their hours using paper logs or an ELD.

The 150 Air-Mile Exemption

The 150 air-mile exemption is for non-CDL drivers operating within 150 air miles (172.5 road miles) of their reporting location. Drivers must return to the exact starting location at the end of their shift to qualify.

Non-CDL drivers can work up to 14 hours a day for five days or 16 hours a day for two days in 7 days. If they exceed these limits, they must log hours with paper or electronic logs for those trips.

Driveaway-Towaway Operations

Driveaway-towaway operations involve transporting vehicles as part of the shipment, such as delivering trucks or trailers. If the car is empty and part of the delivery, it doesn’t need an ELD.

This exemption also applies to vehicles being transported for repairs. For all other types of trips, drivers must use an ELD to log their hours.

Drivers Maintaining Records for eight or Fewer Days

Drivers who operate outside exemption limits for eight or fewer days in 30 days don’t need an ELD. They can log their hours using paper logs during these trips.

If drivers exceed 8 days of non-exempt trips, they must install and use an ELD for 30 days. This exemption is helpful for drivers who rarely exceed their short-haul limits.

Farm Vehicles

Farm vehicles transporting agricultural goods like livestock, machinery, or supplies are exempt from ELD rules. This exemption applies to privately owned cars used for farm-related operations.

Farm vehicles operating within 150 air miles of their starting location are exempt from using ELDs. If they go beyond this range, drivers must log hours using paper or electronic logs.

Agricultural and Livestock Transporters

Agricultural and livestock transporters are exempt when operating within a 150-mile radius of their starting location. This exemption is beneficial for seasonal hauls and short-distance agrarian trips. 

If drivers exceed the 150-air-mile radius, they must log hours using paper or electronic logs. Proper records are required for trips that go beyond the exemption limits.  

Related: Who is Eligible for ELD Exemption On Agricultural Sector?

Why Do ELD Exemptions Exist?

ELD exemptions exist to address specific challenges that make ELDs unnecessary or impractical.

• Short-haul drivers have predictable schedules, so using timecards is easier and sufficient.
• Older trucks don’t have the technology needed for ELDs, and retrofitting them is too expensive.
• Agricultural haulers work seasonally and cover short distances, so they need more flexibility.

How to Determine if You Qualify for an ELD Exemption

Figuring out if you qualify for an ELD exemption is simple if you follow these steps:

Check Your Operation

Ask yourself:

• Are you a short-haul driver staying within a specific distance?
• Do you drive a vehicle made before 2000?
• Is your vehicle used in a driveaway-towaway operation?

These questions help identify if you meet essential exemption criteria.

Check Your Driving Radius and Hours

Measure how far you drive daily in air miles (100 or 150 air miles, depending on your exemption). Look at your hours worked over the past 30 days to ensure they fit short-haul or occasional driving limits.

Keep Proof of Your Exemption

Save timecards, vehicle registrations, or documents related to agricultural hauls. These records can be helpful during inspections to confirm your exemption status.

Get Help if Needed

Visit the FMCSA website or ask a compliance expert to clarify any questions. This ensures you understand the rules and avoid mistakes.

These steps will help you know if you qualify for an ELD exemption and stay within the regulations. 

Tips for Managing ELD Exemptions

Stay Organized

Stay organized by keeping timecards, proof of exemption, or any required documents in your truck. This will make inspections quicker and help avoid fines.

Educate Yourself

Educate yourself by regularly checking FMCSA rules and updates. Knowing the regulations ensures you stay compliant and avoid mistakes. 

Track Your Status

Track your status if you switch between exempt and non-exempt trips. Keep separate records to make managing your hours easier.

Use Telematics Solutions

Use telematics solutions to plan routes and track performance, even if you don’t need an ELD. These tools save fuel, improve efficiency, and make your job easier. Read more about telematics.

Leverage Matrack ELD

Matrack ELD Solution helps drivers follow FMCSA rules and works for those who qualify for exemptions like the 150-air-mile radius. It tracks HOS easily and keeps you compliant with no extra steps.

This system supports exempt drivers by offering flexible tracking and instant alerts to avoid mistakes. It ensures you meet requirements without added costs or complications.

Key Highlights

• Handles Short-Haul Exemptions: Works for 150-air-mile radius and other exemptions.
• Easy DOT Inspections: Shares logs directly with DOT or FMCSA.
• Flexible Rules: Adjusts for different HOS exemption needs.
• No Extra Costs: Free device, no fees for co-drivers, and no contracts. 

Also See: Understanding DOT Hours of Service (HOS) Rules

Conclusion

ELD exemptions offer flexibility for drivers like short-haul operators, agricultural haulers, and those with older trucks. These rules ensure drivers can meet compliance requirements without unnecessary burdens.

Understanding exemption conditions and keeping proper records is essential to avoid fines. Using tools like telematics helps drivers stay organized and operate efficiently.