Driver Training

Complete ELD & HOS compliance training for FMCSA regulations using the Matrack ELD system

Estimated completion time: 2-3 hours
Section 1: Definitions
Understanding ELD and Hours of Service (HOS) regulations for FMCSA compliance

What is an ELD and HOS?

ELD & HOS Compliance Training Manual

This training manual provides comprehensive guidance on Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs) and Hours of Service (HOS) regulations, ensuring compliance with FMCSA standards.

Electronic Logging Device (ELD)

  • Records driving time automatically
  • Connected to the vehicle's ECM (Engine Control Module)
  • Ensures accurate tracking of Hours of Service (HOS)

Hours of Service (HOS)

  • Federal regulations for commercial drivers
  • Enforced by FMCSA to reduce fatigue
  • Improves road safety for all drivers

Key HOS Rules

Key HOS Rules and Regulations

11-hour driving limit

Within 14-hour window after 10 hours off duty

  • • Driver can only drive for up to 11 hours after taking 10 consecutive hours off duty
  • • These 11 hours must fall within a 14-hour window
  • • After 14-hour window closes, no more driving allowed

30-minute break

After 8 hours of driving

  • • Must take a 30-minute break after 8 consecutive hours of driving
  • • Break can be: Off-duty, Sleeper berth, On-duty not driving, or Waiting time
  • • Must be at least 30 minutes uninterrupted

60/70-hour rule (Cycle Rule)

Max duty hours over 7/8 days

  • • 60-hour/7-day rule: No more than 60 hours on-duty in 7 consecutive days
  • • 70-hour/8-day rule: No more than 70 hours on-duty in 8 consecutive days
  • • Once limit reached, driver must take 34+ hours off to reset

34-hour reset

Resets weekly limit

  • • Taking 34 consecutive hours off duty resets 60- or 70-hour clock
  • • After reset, driver starts a new 7- or 8-day cycle

Why ELD Compliance is Required

Why ELD Compliance is Required

FMCSA Expectations - Drivers must:

  • Log in and out of the app
  • Accurately track duty status
  • Certify logs daily
  • Submit logs during inspections

Non-compliance can result in:

  • Out-of-service orders
  • Fines ($7,000+ per violation)
  • CSA score impact (Compliance, Safety, Accountability score)
  • Legal penalties for both drivers and carriers

Sleeper Berth Rules & Exceptions

Sleeper Berth Rules and Exceptions

Sleeper Berth Rules:
  • Must take 10 consecutive hours off duty.
  • Can split into two periods:
    • • One period must be at least 7 consecutive hours in the sleeper berth.
    • • The other period must be at least 2 consecutive hours, either off-duty or in the sleeper berth.
  • The two periods must add up to at least 10 hours.
  • Neither period counts against the 14-hour driving window.
  • The 11-hour driving limit and 14-hour driving window are reset after the combined 10 hours.
  • Example: 7 hours in sleeper + 3 hours off-duty = 10 hours.
Important Notes:
  • Driver must be relieved of all duty and responsibility for the vehicle during both periods.
  • The sleeper berth must be a comfortable and safe place to rest.
  • The driver must not perform any work during the sleeper berth periods.
  • The driver must have access to food, water, and restroom facilities.

Violations to Avoid

Common Violations to Avoid

  • Driving over 11 hours: Exceeding the maximum driving time.
  • Driving after 14 hours: Driving after the 14-hour duty window has closed.
  • No 30-minute break: Failing to take a 30-minute break after 8 hours of driving.
  • Exceeding 60/70-hour limit: Driving more than 60 hours in 7 days or 70 hours in 8 days without a 34-hour reset.
  • False logs: Intentionally falsifying logbook entries.
  • Not certifying logs: Failing to certify daily logs.
  • Operating without ELD: Driving a commercial motor vehicle without a compliant ELD (unless exempt).
  • ELD malfunction: Not reporting or repairing ELD malfunctions promptly.
  • No supporting documents: Failing to retain or provide supporting documents for logs.

Important Reminders

  • Monitor hours daily
  • Document every exception clearly in notes
  • Maintain accurate logs at all times
  • Plan routes to allow breaks and rest periods
  • Keep documentation for anything unusual (weather delays, traffic, etc.)
Section 2: How to Use the ELD (Matrack ELD)
Comprehensive training videos and documentation for using the Matrack ELD system

Driver Guide - ELD Manual

Complete PDF guide for using the Matrack ELD system. Scroll to view.

Training Videos

Basic ELD Training

HOS Rules Guide

Learn the fundamental Hours of Service rules and regulations

How to Connect ELD Device

Step-by-step guide to connecting your ELD device

Matrack ELD App Training

Dashboard Overview

Complete walkthrough of the Matrack ELD driver app dashboard

Change Duty Status

Learn how to properly change your duty status in the app

Enable Split Sleeper

Set up split sleeper functionality for extended rest periods

Enable/Disable Exceptions

Manage HOS exceptions in the Matrack driver app

Add Co-driver

Add and manage co-drivers in team driving situations

Sync with Highway

Synchronize your ELD data with highway systems

Send Logs to FMCSA

Submit your driving logs to FMCSA using the data transfer feature

Certify Daily Logs

Daily log certification process and requirements

Certify Multiple Days Logs

Efficiently certify logs for multiple days at once

Add Trailer

Add and manage trailer information in your logs

Add DVIR

Create and submit Driver Vehicle Inspection Reports (DVIR)

Training Completion

After completing all training modules and videos, drivers should be able to:

  • • Understand and comply with all HOS regulations
  • • Properly operate the Matrack ELD system
  • • Accurately log duty status changes
  • • Handle inspections and data transfers
  • • Maintain FMCSA compliance at all times

Practice Test

Test your knowledge of ELD and HOS regulations. You must score at least 90% to pass. Answer each question to proceed to the next.