What are the legal requirements for keeping a logbook?

Drivers subject to HOS rules must maintain accurate logbooks to document their daily activities. Legal requirements include:

• Who Must Log: Any driver required to keep a Record of Duty Status (RODS) must maintain a logbook.

• Retention Period: Motor carriers must retain logbook records for at least six months.

• Content: Logs must include date, total miles driven, vehicle ID, carrier name, and duty status changes.

• Driver Certification: Drivers must certify each day’s log as accurate.

• Backup Logs: Drivers using ELDs must carry paper log templates in case of device malfunctions.

Failure to meet these requirements can result in penalties during inspections or audits.