In an effort to create consistency between state and federal regulations while simultaneously enhancing commercial vehicle safety across California, the California Highway Patrol (CHP) has amended the California Code of Regulations (CCR) to require intrastate motor carriers and drivers to use an electronic logging device (ELD) to record a driver’s record of duty status (RODS) when operating commercial motor vehicles subject to hours-of-service regulations.

Since Dec. 18, 2017, Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations have required interstate motor carriers and drivers to use an ELD to record a driver’s RODS in accordance with Title 49, Code of Federal Regulations (CFR), Part 395, Subpart B, unless otherwise exempted. Since then, the CHP has worked to align state regulations with federal ELD regulations and has engaged with a variety of interested parties, including motor carriers, commercial motor vehicle drivers, media, and public interest groups. The CHP received significant input during three separate public comment periods and conducted numerous presentations, which included the 2019, 2021, and 2023 Commercial Vehicle Safety Summits, to advise the affected industry of the upcoming changes.

The regulations, which will be effective Jan. 1, 2024, outline the applicability, requirements, and exceptions to the use of ELDs for intrastate motor carriers and drivers. Affected parties are encouraged to review the applicable sections, specifically Title 13, CCR, Division 2, Chapter 6.5, Sections 1213 and 1213.3, by visiting the official CCR website.

Additional information is available on the CHP’s website under Regulatory Actions and an Intrastate Electronic Logging Devices webpage under Programs and Services. Questions regarding the ELD regulations may be directed to the California Highway Patrol, Commercial Vehicle Section, at (916) 843-3400.