Preventing Hours of Service Violations

Hours of Service violations are a critical concern in the trucking industry, impacting driver safety, legal compliance, and overall road safety. These violations occur when commercial drivers fail to adhere to the federally mandated Hours of Service (HOS) regulations set by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). Understanding these violations, their consequences, and prevention strategies is essential for drivers, fleet managers, and anyone involved in the transportation sector.

Why do HOS violations matter?

First, they can lead to serious consequences, including hefty fines and penalties. For example, if a driver works too many hours without taking the required breaks, they risk getting tired. Tired drivers are more likely to have accidents, which is dangerous not just for them, but for everyone on the road.

Moreover, trucking companies can also face penalties if their drivers violate HOS rules. This can affect their reputation, increase their key DOT compliance scores (CSA BASICs and the ISS Score DOT ) and lead to increased insurance costs. So, it’s not just about the drivers; it’s about the entire business.

By following the Hours of Service regulations, drivers can help ensure their safety and the safety of others. It also helps companies avoid costly fines and legal issues. Judging by the 2025 CVSA International Roadcheck results, HOS compliance still causes headaches with many fleets. In the upcoming sections, we will dive deeper into the specific rules, common violations, and ways to prevent these issues.

For more information, you can check out the the FMCSA’s guide to Hours of Service for detailed guidelines on HOS regulations. Understanding these rules is the first step toward safer driving practices in the trucking industry.

Understanding Hours of Service Regulations

To keep our roads safe, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has set important rules called Hours of Service (HOS) regulations. These rules are designed to help truck drivers manage their time on the road and ensure they get enough rest. Let’s take a closer look at these regulations.

Key HOS Rules

Here are the main Hours of Service regulations that all commercial drivers must follow:

• 14-Hour Duty Limit: Drivers cannot be on duty for more than 14 consecutive hours. This means that once they start working, they need to be mindful of how long they are active.
  11-Hour Driving Limit: After taking 10 consecutive hours off duty, drivers can drive a maximum of 11 hours. This rule helps ensure that drivers are rested before driving again.
• 30-Minute Break Rule: Drivers must take a 30-minute break after 8 hours of driving. This break is crucial for preventing fatigue and keeping drivers alert.
• 60/70-Hour Limit: Drivers cannot drive more than 60 hours in a 7-day period or 70 hours in an 8-day period. This rule helps limit the total driving time over a week, ensuring drivers get enough rest.
• Sleeper Berth Rule: Drivers must spend at least 7 hours in a sleeper berth and 3 hours off duty. This ensures that drivers have sufficient time to rest and recover.

These rules are not just suggestions; they are essential for safety and legal compliance.

Importance of Compliance

Following HOS regulations is crucial for several reasons. First, it helps keep drivers safe. When drivers are well-rested, they are less likely to experience fatigue-related accidents. Second, compliance with these regulations protects trucking companies from facing hefty fines and legal issues. If a company is found to have encouraged or ignored HOS violations, they could face serious consequences. So, preventing hours of service violations should be a critical part of your trucking company safety program.

In addition to safety and legal reasons, adhering to HOS regulations also promotes a positive work environment. When drivers know their company values their well-being by encouraging compliance, it can lead to higher job satisfaction and lower turnover rates.

For a quick summary of the HOS regulations, you can visit the FMCSA’s HOS Violations chart here. Understanding these rules is the first step toward ensuring safer roads for everyone.

Common Hours of Service Violations

Understanding common Hours of Service (HOS) violations and preventing them is essential for both drivers and fleet managers. These violations can lead to serious consequences, including fines, being placed out of service and safety risks. Here are some of the most frequent HOS violations that everyone should be aware of:

Operating Past 14 Hours on Duty

One of the most common violations is operating past the 14-hour duty limit. Drivers must not be on duty for more than 14 consecutive hours. If a driver exceeds this limit, they risk becoming fatigued, which can lead to dangerous driving conditions. The consequences can include hefty fines and potential accidents, putting everyone on the road at risk. The 14-hour duty limit violation is covered under 49 CFR 395.3(a)(2).

If you’re a short haul driver, you can consider using the DOT 16-hour rule to extend your duty day once each duty week.

Driving Over 60/70 Hours in 7/8 Days

Another significant violation is driving more than 60 hours in a 7-day period or 70 hours in an 8-day period. This rule is in place to ensure drivers have enough rest. If a driver is found to be in violation, they may face penalties that can range from fines to being placed out of service. It’s crucial for drivers to keep track of their hours to avoid this violation. The 60/70-hour limit rule is outlines in 49 CFR 395.3(b).

No Record of Duty Status

Failing to maintain proper logs is another serious violation. Drivers must keep a record of their duty status, showing when they were on or off duty. If a driver does not have this record, they can face fines and other penalties. Proper documentation helps ensure compliance with HOS regulations and keeps everyone accountable.

The requirement for maintaining a record of duty status is outlined in 49 CFR 395.8. This regulation mandates that every driver must prepare a record of duty status (RODS) for each 24-hour period. Failing to maintain these records is a serious violation that can lead to significant penalties.

Missed 30 Minute Break

The 30-minute break rule, outlined in 49 CFR 395.3(a)(3)(ii), requires that driving is not permitted if more than 8 hours have passed since the end of the driver’s last off-duty or sleeper-berth period of at least 30 minutes. This regulation is designed to ensure drivers take necessary breaks to combat fatigue. Check out our short video about this regulation here:

False Logs

One of the most severe violations is submitting false logs. This is considered a critical violation and can lead to significant fines, sometimes reaching thousands of dollars during a DOT audit. Not only does this violate HOS regulations, but it also puts the safety of the driver and others at risk. It’s important for drivers to be honest and accurate in their logging practices.

Log falsification falls under 49 CFR 395.8(e). This regulation states that making false reports in records required to be maintained or making false reports in connection with duty status is prohibited. With ELDs, false log violations are often given when a driver improperly uses the personal conveyance or FMCSA yard move duty status. 

Being aware of these common HOS violations is the first step in preventing them. By following the rules and maintaining accurate records, drivers can help ensure their safety and the safety of others on the road. For further information on HOS regulations, check out the FMCSA Hours of Service regulations here for more resources and guidance.

Penalties for HOS Violations

Understanding the penalties associated with Hours of Service (HOS) violations is important for drivers and fleet managers alike. These penalties can have serious consequences, not just for a trucking fleet but also for a driver’s career. Proper HOS management should be one of the cornerstone’s of your DOT compliance program. Let’s take a closer look at the issues that can arise from hours of service violations.

Consequences for Fleets

When drivers fail to follow Hours of Service (HOS) regulations, the costs to a fleet go far beyond a single violation. Each infraction adds points to your CSA scores, which directly raise your ISS score and increase the likelihood of being pulled into inspections at weigh stations.

Higher CSA scores also drive up insurance premiums, expose you to steeper fines during a DOT audit, and can even push your company toward a conditional or unsatisfactory safety fitness rating—threatening your ability to operate.

Beyond compliance, the legal risks are substantial: in the event of a crash, a poor HOS record or history of mismanagement can be used against your company in court, leading to higher jury verdicts and crippling settlements. Simply put, HOS non-compliance drains profitability, increases risk, and jeopardizes the long-term health of your fleet.

Consequences for Drivers

In addition to stiff fines at the roadside, HOS violations can have lasting impacts on a driver’s record and employment. Receiving multiple violations can especially lead to serious issues for a CMV driver.

Accumulating violations can make it difficult to find new jobs or could lead to termination from their current position. Employers often look for drivers with clean records, and a history of HOS violations on a driver’s PSP report can raise red flags.

Furthermore, serious violations can result in a driver being placed out of service, meaning they cannot drive until the issue is resolved. This not only affects their income but can also lead to job loss if the situation is not handled promptly.

It’s clear that the consequences of HOS violations extend well beyond just fines. They can impact a driver’s livelihood and the reputation of the trucking company. For more information on HOS regulations and penalties, the FMCSA’s Interstate Truck Driver’s Guide to HOS is a valuable resource. Understanding these penalties is the first step in preventing violations and ensuring a safer driving environment for everyone.

Impact of HOS Violations on Safety

Hours of Service (HOS) violations do not just lead to fines and penalties; they can have serious effects on safety. When drivers do not follow HOS regulations, it can lead to dangerous driving conditions and even accidents. Let’s explore how these violations impact safety on the road.

Driver Fatigue

One of the biggest risks associated with HOS violations is driver fatigue. When drivers exceed their allowed hours, they often do not get enough rest. Fatigue can severely affect a driver’s performance. Tired drivers may have slower reaction times, difficulty concentrating, and impaired judgment. This can lead to drifting in and out of lanes, missing traffic signals, or even falling asleep at the wheel.

It’s important to recognize the signs of fatigue. If a driver is yawning frequently or struggling to keep their eyes open, it’s a clear indication that they need to take a break. By adhering to HOS regulations, drivers can help ensure they are well-rested and alert behind the wheel.

Statistics on Accidents Related to HOS Violations

The statistics surrounding accidents related to HOS violations are alarming. According to data from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, a significant percentage of truck accidents are linked to driver fatigue and violations of HOS rules. For instance, studies show that fatigue contributes to a large number of commercial vehicle crashes each year.

Specifically, the latest Large Truck Crash Causation Study (LTCCS) estimated that about 13% of commercial motor vehicle drivers in the sample were considered fatigued at the time of a crash. That’s a little over 1 out of every 10 crashes!

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration also reports that drowsy driving is a factor in approximately 100,000 crashes of all vehicles annually. So, fatigued driving isn’t just a trucking issue. I just wish that law enforcement would treat tired 4 wheel drivers the same as they treat truck drivers when they’re driving tired.

How to Prevent Hours of Service Violations

Preventing Hours of Service (HOS) violations is essential for keeping drivers safe and ensuring compliance with regulations. Here are some effective strategies and best practices that can help avoid these violations.

Use of Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs)

One of the most effective tools for preventing HOS violations is the use of Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs). These devices automatically track driving time and help ensure that drivers adhere to HOS regulations. If you would like to learn more about ELDs and the ELD mandate, check out the FMCSA’s ELD webpage here.

Benefits of ELDs

Even if you can take advantage of an FMCSA ELD exemption, ELDs offer numerous advantages in fleet management. They provide real-time data on a driver’s hours, making it easier to track compliance. This helps prevent unintentional violations. Additionally, ELDs can alert drivers when they are approaching their limits, allowing them to take necessary breaks. This not only helps avoid fines but also promotes safer driving by reducing fatigue. As an added bonus, most leading ELD providers also offer camera systems.  

Driver Training and Education

Another crucial aspect of preventing HOS violations is proper driver training and education. It’s important for drivers to understand the HOS regulations thoroughly. Training sessions should cover the specifics of the rules, the importance of compliance, and how to use tools like ELDs effectively. Regular training can keep safety at the forefront of drivers’ minds and help them make informed decisions on the road.

Watch our free driver safety training videos here!

Regular HOS Monitoring and Auditing

Regular monitoring and auditing of driving logs can also help ensure compliance with HOS regulations. Fleet managers should routinely review drivers’ logs and ELD data to identify any patterns of violations.

At minimum, you should be reviewing the reports from your ELD system once a week to identify:

Hours of Service Violations

These are actual violations of the driving time limits, like 11/14 hour violations or 30 minute break violations.

Unidentified Driving Time (Ghost Miles)

These violations occur when a driver operates their truck without logging into their ELD first. The truck should never move unless a driver has logged in and selected a driving status in their ELD.

Personal Conveyance and Yard Move Status Use

As mentioned before, the improper use of personal conveyance and/or yard move status is a critical log falsification violation and these should be monitored carefully. Repeated violations can lead to significant fines during a DOT audit and can increase the chances of your fleet receiving a Conditional Safety Rating at the end of your compliance review.

ELD Disconnect activity

Like improper personal conveyance use, a driver unplugging their ELD or obscuring the device’s signal in an attempt to skirt the hours of service regulations is a critical false log violation. Sometimes technical glitches happen and that’s okay. In reviewing this activity, we suggest that you only take action if a driver has an ELD disconnect of 20 minutes or longer. Generally, this will help weed out any potential cell tower glitches and help you focus on the more likely falsification attempts.

By catching issues early, companies can address them before they become serious problems. This proactive approach can save time, money, and improve overall safety. You can even use the FMCSA’s ELD Violation tool to see if a log has a violation.

Creating a Culture of Safety

Finally, creating a culture of safety within the workplace is vital. When safety becomes a core value of a company, everyone from management to drivers is more likely to prioritize compliance with the HOS regulations. This can be achieved through open communication, setting clear expectations, and recognizing safe driving practices. Encouraging drivers to speak up about their concerns can also foster a safer environment.

By implementing these strategies, trucking companies can significantly reduce the risk of HOS violations. Together, we can ensure safer roads for everyone by preventing HOS violations.

Hours of Service Violations Frequently Asked Questions

How much is an hours of service violation?

The cost of an hours of service violation can vary significantly depending on the severity of the offense. Drivers can be fined up to $500 at the roadside. Fines for fleets can range from a few hundred dollars for minor violations to over $10,000 for severe infractions. For example, a first-time violation might result in a fine of $1,000 to $3,000, while repeated or willful violations can lead to much higher penalties.

What happens if you violate hours of service?

Violating hours of service regulations can have several consequences beyond just financial penalties. These may include: 1. Fines: As mentioned earlier, monetary penalties can be substantial. 2. Out-of-service orders: Drivers may be required to stop operating their vehicle for a set period. 3. Negative impact on safety scores: Violations can affect a carrier’s Compliance, Safety, Accountability (CSA) score. 4. Increased insurance premiums: A history of violations can lead to higher insurance costs. 5. Potential job loss: Repeated violations may result in termination of employment and hurt their chances of being hired elsewhere. 6. Legal liability: In case of accidents, HOS violations can lead to increased legal exposure. It’s crucial for both drivers and companies to take these regulations seriously to avoid these consequences.

What are the most common hours of service violations?

The most common hours of service violations include:

• 1. Driving more than 11 hours after 10 consecutive hours off duty.
• 2. Being on duty beyond the 14-hour window after coming on duty.
• 3. Not taking the required 10 consecutive hours off duty before starting a new shift.
• 4. Not taking a 30-minute break after 8 cumulative hours of driving.
• 5. Form and manner violations: Errors or omissions in logging duty status.
• 6. False logs: Deliberately misrepresenting hours worked or miles driven.
• 7. 60/70-hour rule violation: Exceeding the maximum on-duty hours in a 7 or 8-day period.

Understanding these common violations can help drivers and companies focus their efforts on compliance in these key areas. Click here if you want to check out some other specific HOS questions and answers from the FMCSA.

Conclusion

Preventing Hours of Service (HOS) violations is vital for the safety of truck drivers and everyone else on the road. Throughout this article, we have explored the importance of understanding HOS regulations, the common violations that drivers face, and the serious penalties that can result from non-compliance.

By using strategies such as Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs), providing thorough driver training, and regularly monitoring compliance, trucking companies can significantly reduce the risk of HOS violations. Creating a culture of safety within the workplace is equally important. When safety is prioritized, everyone benefits.

The consequences of HOS violations extend beyond fines; they can lead to dangerous driving conditions and accidents caused by driver fatigue. Statistics show that fatigue plays a significant role in many truck accidents each year. By adhering to HOS regulations, drivers can help ensure their safety and the safety of others.

Together, we can promote safe driving practices and work towards a safer environment for all road users. Remember, staying informed and compliant is the key to preventing HOS violations and ensuring the well-being of everyone on the road.

About The Author

Sam Tucker is the founder of My Safety Manager, a DOT compliance and fleet safety consulting firm that helps trucking companies stay audit-ready and reduce risk. With over 20 years of experience guiding fleets through FMCSA regulations, CSA score improvement, and trucking risk management, Sam has worked with carriers of all sizes — from small family operations to over 900-unit fleets. He regularly publishes practical fleet safety tips, compliance checklists, and training resources to help carriers avoid costly DOT audit violations and operate more safely.

When he’s not helping fleets improve safety and compliance, Sam enjoys spending time with his family, cooking, and reading.