What Is A Driver's Daily Log?

A driver’s daily log, also known as a driver’s logbook or a trucker’s log, is a record that truck drivers must keep to track their hours of service (HOS) and ensure compliance with regulations set by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). It is a crucial document that helps both drivers and trucking companies maintain safety on the roads and prevent driver fatigue.

Why is a Driver’s Daily Log Important?

A driver’s daily log is important for several reasons:

1. Compliance with Regulations

The FMCSA has established strict regulations regarding the number of hours a commercial driver can drive and work in a given period. By keeping a driver’s daily log, truck drivers can ensure they are complying with these regulations and avoid penalties and fines.

2. Safety on the Roads

Driver fatigue is a significant risk factor in truck accidents. By tracking their hours of service, drivers can ensure they are getting adequate rest and prevent fatigue-related accidents on the roads.

3. Accountability

A driver’s daily log serves as a record of a driver’s activities and whereabouts. It provides accountability for drivers and trucking companies and can be used as evidence in case of accidents, disputes, or audits.

What Information is Included in a Driver’s Daily Log?

A driver’s daily log typically includes the following information:

1. Date and Time

Each log entry should include the date and time the driver starts and finishes their shift.

2. Driver’s Name and License Number

The log should include the driver’s full name and commercial driver’s license (CDL) number.

3. Vehicle Information

The log should include details about the vehicle being driven, including the make, model, and license plate number.

4. Trip Details

Drivers should record the starting and ending locations of each trip, as well as the total miles driven.

5. Hours of Service

The log should include the driver’s hours of service, including the start and end times of each driving period, as well as any breaks or rest periods taken.

6. Duty Status

Drivers should record their duty status throughout the day, including whether they are on-duty, off-duty, or in a sleeper berth.

Sample Driver’s Daily Logs

Here are five sample driver’s daily logs:

1. Sample Log #1

Date: January 1, 2022

Time: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Driver: John Smith (CDL# 123456789)

Vehicle: Freightliner Cascadia (License Plate: ABC123)

Trip: Start – Chicago, IL / End – Milwaukee, WI

Total Miles: 100

Hours of Service: 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM (Driving), 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM (Break), 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM (Driving)

Duty Status: On-Duty

2. Sample Log #2

Date: January 2, 2022

Time: 6:00 AM – 2:00 PM

Driver: Jane Doe (CDL# 987654321)

Vehicle: Volvo VNL (License Plate: XYZ789)

Trip: Start – Los Angeles, CA / End – San Francisco, CA

Total Miles: 400

Hours of Service: 6:00 AM – 10:00 AM (Driving), 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM (Break), 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM (Driving)

Duty Status: On-Duty

3. Sample Log #3

Date: January 3, 2022

Time: 10:00 PM – 6:00 AM

Driver: Mike Johnson (CDL# 456789123)

Vehicle: Peterbilt 579 (License Plate: DEF456)

Trip: Start – Dallas, TX / End – Houston, TX

Total Miles: 250

Hours of Service: 10:00 PM – 2:00 AM (Driving), 2:00 AM – 3:00 AM (Break), 3:00 AM – 6:00 AM (Driving)

Duty Status: On-Duty

4. Sample Log #4

Date: January 4, 2022

Time: 12:00 PM – 8:00 PM

Driver: Sarah Brown (CDL# 789123456)

Vehicle: Kenworth T680 (License Plate: GHI789)

Trip: Start – Miami, FL / End – Orlando, FL

Total Miles: 200

Hours of Service: 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM (Driving), 4:00 PM – 5:00 PM (Break), 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM (Driving)

Duty Status: On-Duty

5. Sample Log #5

Date: January 5, 2022

Time: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Driver: Mark Davis (CDL# 321654987)

Vehicle: International LT (License Plate: JKL012)

Trip: Start – New York, NY / End – Boston, MA

Total Miles: 300

Hours of Service: 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM (Driving), 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM (Break), 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM (Driving)

Duty Status: On-Duty

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About a Driver’s Daily Log

Here are some frequently asked questions about a driver’s daily log:

1. Do all truck drivers need to keep a driver’s daily log?

No, not all truck drivers are required to keep a driver’s daily log. The FMCSA regulations state that drivers who operate commercial motor vehicles (CMVs) are required to keep a log if they are involved in interstate commerce and meet certain criteria regarding the distance traveled, the nature of the cargo, and the type of vehicle.

2. How long do drivers need to keep their daily logs?

Drivers are required to keep their daily logs for a minimum of six months. However, it is recommended to keep them for a longer period, as they may be needed for audits or legal purposes.

3. Can drivers use electronic logbooks instead of paper logs?

Yes, drivers can use electronic logbooks, also known as electronic logging devices (ELDs), to track their hours of service. ELDs are becoming increasingly popular as they offer more accurate and convenient logging options.

4. What are the consequences of not keeping a driver’s daily log?

Failure to keep a driver’s daily log or falsifying logbook entries can result in severe penalties and fines. It can also lead to the suspension or revocation of a driver’s commercial driver’s license.

5. Can drivers edit their daily logs?

Drivers are allowed to make edits to their daily logs, but any edits or corrections should be clearly documented and explained. It is important to maintain the integrity of the logbook and ensure accuracy.

6. Are there any exemptions to the hours of service regulations?

Yes, there are certain exemptions to the hours of service regulations, such as the short-haul exemption, which allows drivers to operate within a 150 air-mile radius and be exempt from keeping a daily log. However, even if exempt, drivers are still required to comply with other HOS regulations.

7. Can drivers use their cell phones to record their daily logs?

Yes, drivers can use mobile applications or software on their cell phones to record their daily logs. However, the FMCSA has specific requirements for electronic logging devices, including the use of certified and compliant devices.

8. Are there any exceptions to the hours of service regulations during emergencies?

Yes, during declared emergencies or natural disasters, the FMCSA may grant temporary exemptions or waivers to the hours of service regulations to ensure the efficient movement of goods and supplies.

9. Can drivers request their daily logs from their trucking companies?

Yes, drivers have the right to request and access their daily logs from their trucking companies. It is important for drivers