The FMCSA recently clarified that the age of the engine, not the age of the truck, is what counts when looking for an exemption from the Electronic Logging Device (ELD) requirement.
In a change from what the agency had previously indicated, the FMCSA says that engines–not truck chassis–built before 2000 are exempt from having an ELD. On its ELD Frequently Asked Questions webpage, FMCSA writes:
There may be instances where the model year reflected on the vehicle registration is not the same as the engine model year, most commonly when a vehicle is rebuilt using a “glider kit.” If the engine model year is older than 2000, the driver is not subject to the ELD rule. In instances in which the engine model year is 2000 or newer, and the vehicle registration reflects a model year older than 2000, the driver is subject to the ELD rule.
The agency goes on to say that documentation confirming the engine year does not have to be carried in the truck, but must be maintained at the “principal place of business.”
ELD Resources
The FMCSA maintains a web page with ELD resources. From this page, you can:
- Download a list of ELD Frequently Asked Questions
- Read tips for choosing a compliant ELD
- View past ELD webinars and trainings
- Sign up for ELD email updates
If you have a specific ELD question, you can email ELD@dot.gov or call 1-800-832-5660.
Photo: Frank Deanrdo, Flickr Creative Commons
