The use of electronic on-board recorders (EOBRs) and the implementation of electronic logs (E-Logs) is gaining wider acceptance as more companies see the benefits of in-cab technology. E-Logs in particular eliminate the hassles of paper logs and can provide comprehensive auditing capabilities.

EOBR devices are attached to commercial vehicles' engines to capture speed, distance and driver location (GPS) data. EOBR systems also typically require driver interaction — to provide duty status details (produce electronic logbook) or vehicle inspection information (produce electronic DVIR), for example. The data captured by an EOBR can provide critical assessments of fleet and driver performance, helping companies make decisions to improve operations.

On July 6, 2012, Congress enacted a new law requiring the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to write an EOBR rule within one year. The rule will require all commercial motor vehicles operating in interstate commerce and subject to the federal logging rules in Part 395 to be equipped with EOBR technology. The law requires affected drivers to start using EOBRs within 2 years after the rule is issued.

Not ready to implement EOBR or E-Log technology yet? Visit our Hours of Service page for driver’s daily log books, training, and much more.