Since the ELD mandate went into full effect in 2019, commercial drivers are required to use electronic logging devices to automatically record driving time. ELDs help eliminate paper logs and reduce the risk of falsified records, making HOS tracking more accurate and easier to enforce.

Recent Updates in ELD Regulations

• United States: The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has recently expanded guidance on ELD exemptions and usage, particularly for short-haul drivers and personal conveyance rules. New updates clarify logging requirements during off-duty time and improve flexibility for agricultural and construction haulers while maintaining core HOS compliance standards.
  
  

• Canada: Transport Canada is continuing to update its certification and compliance framework for ELDs. Recently, there’s been a focus on expanding the list of certified devices, clarifying enforcement protocols, and aligning certain requirements with U.S. standards to facilitate cross-border operations. Fleet operators are advised to ensure their devices are on the official approved list and regularly updated.
  
  

• Cross-Border Harmonization
  For fleets operating in both Canada and the U.S., understanding cross-border compliance is essential. While both countries mandate ELD use, there are slight differences in logging rules, exemptions, and reporting formats. Recent efforts aim to harmonize these requirements to reduce administrative burden and simplify compliance for drivers and carriers traveling between the two countries. Fleets should:

  
  

• Ensure ELDs are certified in both Canada and the U.S.
  
  

• Train drivers on the differences in HOS rules and exemptions across borders
  
  

• Maintain accurate records that meet the requirements of both jurisdictions
  
  

Why HOS Compliance Matters

• Safety First: Fatigue is a leading cause of crashes involving CMVs. HOS compliance helps ensure drivers are well-rested and alert on the road.
  
  

• Avoiding Penalties: Non-compliance with HOS regulations can result in heavy fines (both for the driver and the carriers), out-of-service orders, and increased insurance costs.
  
  

• Operational Efficiency: Proper planning around HOS limits helps fleets optimize routes, minimize downtime, streamline the logging process, and reduce administrative burden.
  
  

• Reputation Management: A carrier's safety record is a major consideration for customers and partners. Consistent compliance builds trust and protects brand reputation.
  
  

Best Practices for HOS Compliance

• Implement Fleet Management Software: Use platforms that integrate with ELDs to monitor compliance in real-time.
  
  

• Train Drivers Thoroughly: Ensure drivers are educated on HOS rules and understand how to log their hours correctly.
  
  

• Schedule Smart: Dispatchers should plan loads with HOS limits in mind to avoid violations.
  
  

• Conduct Regular Audits: Review logs periodically to identify and correct patterns of non-compliance.
  
  

• Encourage Open Communication: Drivers should feel comfortable reporting fatigue or issues that may affect their ability to comply.

Helpful tip! Here is a link for the list of electronic logging devices that have been certified by accredited certification bodies to be used in Canada: Transport Canada Certified ELDs

Who Needs to Comply?

The Canadian ELD mandate applies to federally regulated carriers operating in extra-provincial transport. This includes:

• Commercial motor vehicles crossing provincial or territorial boundaries
  
  

• Vehicles that weigh more than 4,500 kg (approximately 9,921 pounds)
  
  

• Vehicles carrying dangerous goods requiring safety marks (placards)
  
  

• Buses and other passenger-carrying commercial vehicles

If you’re a commercial driver who crosses provincial boundaries as part of your operation, you likely need to comply with the ELD mandate, regardless of whether you’re an owner-operator or driving for a fleet.

Bringing It Home
Staying compliant with HOS regulations is not just a legal obligation—it’s a commitment to safety, professionalism, and accountability. With technology evolving and transportation networks becoming more complex, companies that stay on top of ELD updates, including cross-border harmonization, will be better positioned to lead in safety, efficiency, and operational excellence.