Start by identifying which rules and recordkeeping methods apply to each vehicle, driver, and trip. In a mixed fleet, those requirements can change when a driver switches vehicles or operations.
What this means for your fleet
Build a matrix for vehicle type, weight or passenger status, commerce, route, driver, exemption evidence, and assigned device. Configure only rules that have an accountable owner and documented basis.
Example to try with your fleet
A fleet reviews heavy interstate tractors, light service vans, and occasional rentals separately. For each group, it determines whether records of duty status (RODS) and ELDs are required, then assigns devices and training. When a driver changes vehicles or trips, confirm which recordkeeping method applies that day.
What to check
Use these checks before buying or setting up an ELD. Record the results and resolve any problems before rollout.
| Check | How to verify |
|---|---|
| 1. Segment vehicles and operations | Keep each vehicle/VIN, rating, use, driver type, route, jurisdiction, record method, device/cable, and unresolved segment. |
| 2. Map rule and exception evidence | For each segment, cite the current provision, list every exception condition, retain supporting evidence, reviewer, dated result, and change trigger. |
| 3. Control vehicle assignment | Save driver and vehicle account assignments, device serial, cable, reassignment workflow, unassigned-driving review, defect, and retest. |
| 4. Train for workflow changes | Retain role-specific training on the old and new record methods, completed tasks, scenario, version, coaching, and competency retest. |
| 5. Review cross-segment exceptions | Keep a cross-segment review of drivers, vehicles, trips, state/federal rules, exceptions, conflicts, qualified decision, and dispatch change. |
Limits and exceptions
Use this guide to plan your checks; it does not determine whether a legal exception applies, certify a record, or guarantee compliance, safety, savings, or audit results. Preserve original ELD records and edit history. Use the current rules to determine applicability and the manual for your installed device for operating instructions.
Sources and review date
Reviewed August 10, 2026. Check the latest rules and product information before changing your procedures or signing a contract.
- Official ELD exceptions and exemptions FAQ — Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration.
- FMCSA ELD resources for carriers and drivers — Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration.
- Factor ELD products, plans, and support — Factor ELD.
Try the ELD on a typical route
Tell us about your truck, phone, route, and a task you want to test. Request a Factor ELD demo to see how the product works. Your fleet remains responsible for deciding which rules apply.