What is a driver’s record of duty status?
The FMCSA requires that drivers report a record of duty status (RODS) for each 24-hour period. This record of duty status is also known as the driver log which contains information such as miles driven, hours of service (HOS), and the driver’s status throughout the day. It is typically recorded in an electronic logging device (ELD) when drivers change status, such as taking their required 30-minute break (paper logs are acceptable in certain scenarios). Failure to record, retain, or complete a RODS or falsify a log could result in the driver or carrier being fined.
What are the different duty statuses?
There are four types of record of duty statuses. These include:
Off Duty: Time spent completely free from work responsibilities. The CMV is parked and the driver is not performing any work-related activities like filling out paperwork or inspections.
Sleeper Berth: Time spent resting or sleeping in the truck's sleeper berth compartment.
Driving: Time spent actively operating the commercial vehicle on the road.
On Duty (Not Driving): Time spent performing tasks related to work, such as loading/unloading, fueling, vehicle inspections, and administrative duties.
What information is logged?
When logging a record of duty status, the driver must also record the following information:
Date and time of each change in duty status
Total miles driven each day
Total hours
The 24-hour period starting time
Name of the carrier
Truck and trailer number
Driver's name and signature
Remarks for any deviations from the standard duty status transitions
Main office address
Shipping document number(s), or name of shipper and commodity
How should it be logged?
As mentioned, the RODS is typically logged within the ELD. Please refer to the FMCSA website to learn more about RODS and HOS exemptions. The RODS should be recorded in the time standard of the driver’s home terminal. For example, a driver who takes a 30-minute break in Chicago, Illinois (CST), but whose home terminal is based in Detroit, Michigan (EST) should continue to use the time standard in Detroit (EST).
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Soshaul Logistics LLC and its affiliates do not provide tax, legal or accounting advice. This material has been prepared for informational purposes only, and is not intended to provide, and should not be relied on for, tax, legal or accounting advice. It is meant to serve as a guide and information only and Soshaul Logistics, LLC does not assume responsibility for any omissions, errors, or ambiguity contained herein. Contents may not be relied upon as a substitute for the FMCSA's published regulations. You should consult your own tax, legal and accounting advisors before engaging in any transaction or operation.
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