Explore the sections in this guide
The short answer
Installing the device is one step. Section 395.22 covers registered devices, individual accounts, proper logins, onboard information, record security, and electronic record production.
The onboard packet includes transfer instructions, malfunction instructions, and blank graph grids for at least eight days. Keep a backup of ELD records for six months on a separate device.
A practical example
The driver can open today's log, but cannot explain how to transfer records. Practice the transfer procedure using the actual instructions, without sending records to an unintended recipient.
Next steps
- Verify accounts belong to the people using them.
- Check each vehicle's information packet.
- Test authorized retrieval and confirm how the backup is maintained.
An ELD review includes more than the dashboard
| Record or decision | What it addresses | What to check |
|---|---|---|
| Device and accounts | Registered device and identified users | Check the actual configuration and role access. |
| Driver instructions | Transfer and malfunction procedures | The driver should locate and use the correct instructions. |
| Record production | Correct driver and date range | Test the authorized retrieval method. |
| Backup | Separate retained copy | Identify the owner, location, and recovery process. |
A screen that shows today’s log does not establish historical retrieval
A records review can find that drivers use the device correctly while office staff cannot retrieve an older period or connect records with supporting documents. Test the actual request you expect staff to handle. Use authorized accounts and confirm the driver, date range, time basis, and export method. Record functions that were not tested rather than describing the entire system as verified.
Example: the employee who manages exports leaves
The company still pays for the subscription, but the account owner and export instructions belonged to a former employee. Identify the authorized administrative contact, update access through the proper process, and document the retrieval task for another responsible employee. Do not solve the problem by sharing the former employee’s password.
Keep supporting documents tied to the log period
Bills of lading, dispatch records, expense records, fleet communications, and payroll or settlement records can fall under §395.11. The rule addresses identifying data, retention limits and exceptions, and matching records to duty status. An ELD archive alone does not answer whether the applicable supporting records can be found.
Driver certification and carrier edits need a controlled process
A carrier may propose authorized changes or annotations through the ELD process. The driver’s required review and acceptance remain separate from an office employee identifying a discrepancy. Preserve the original record and the edit history. Explain the facts supporting a proposed correction. Avoid an office practice that changes statuses just to make available hours appear larger.
Review unidentified driving before it accumulates
For each unidentified event, determine which driver operated the vehicle or why the event should remain unassigned. Check unit, time, dispatch information and available movement records. Document the disposition through the applicable ELD process. An internal review interval should fit the operation and prevent an unresolved queue from becoming the ordinary condition. Equipment movement and an employee’s job title do not automatically establish an HOS exemption.
49 CFR §395.30 — ELD edits, certification and retention
Official source
A focused federal summary. Check applicability, exceptions, and current requirements for your operation.
