Dot 16 Hour Rule & Short-Haul Exception Benefits

Benefits Come with the 16 Hour Rule & Short-Haul Exception
The Hours of Service (HOS) 16-hour short-haul exception actually brings some advantages to commercial motor vehicle (CMV) drivers. Due to this rule, some CMV drivers can extend their 14-hour window by 2 hours every week. However, some conditions need to be met.

A brief recap of HOS rules
As per the DOT hours of service rules, CMV drivers who are carrying US property have 14-hour windows to complete all driving-related work. Drivers are allowed to drive a maximum of 11 hours in that 14-hour window while they must take a half an hour break after 8 hours of driving. The 16-hour short haul exception rule comes handy in a way that it extends the 14-hour window by 2 hours. So, drivers can have a 16-hour window instead of 14 hours.

If drivers want to enjoy a valid 16-hour short-haul exception, the following conditions are to be fulfilled:

  • The driver must be released from work after coming On Duty within 16 hours.
  • The driver returns to their work reporting location for that day as well as their last 5 workdays.
  • The driver has not used the 16-hour exception in the previous 6 consecutive days.
  • Drivers who already qualify for non-CDL short-haul exceptions may not use the 16-hour short-haul exception.

Safety Compliance Managers and Drivers, are you looking for an ELD solution to keep track of your Hours of Service? Visit our website and sign up for an online demo!

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