Understanding the FMCSA 16-hour rule: A complete guide for short-haul fleets

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) 16-hour rule and the short-haul driver exemption are critical components of the Hours of Service (HOS) regulations that govern commercial motor vehicle (CMV) drivers. This Department of Transportation (DOT) 16-hour rule allows qualifying drivers to extend their workday from 14 to 16 hours once every seven days, providing flexibility for short-haul operations where the FMCSA short-haul rules apply.

However, navigating the intricacies of the 16-hour exception can be challenging for fleet managers and drivers. Non-compliance with HOS rules, including the 16-hour exception, can result in downtime and even costly fines and penalties. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll clarify the FMCSA 16-hour rule, detailing its requirements, benefits, and best practices for compliance.

What is the FMCSA 16-hour rule?

The FMCSA 16-hour rule, also known as the short-haul exception, is a special provision within the Hours of Service rules that allows eligible CDL drivers to extend their workday from 14 to 16 hours of driving time once every seven days. 

To qualify for the 16-hour exception, drivers must meet the following requirements:

1. Start and end their workday at the same location

2. Be released from on-duty time within 16 hours

3. Have at least 10-hour off-duty period separating each 16-hour shift

4. Not drive more than 11 hours during the 16-hour driving window

5. Use the 16 hour exception no more than once per seven-day period

The purpose of the 16-hour rule is to provide flexibility and rest periods for short-haul drivers who may occasionally need more time to complete their duties, such as loading and unloading cargo, while still maintaining a high level of safety. This exception is particularly beneficial for industries like construction, utilities, and oil and gas, where job sites may be spread out and require additional time to reach.

In contrast, the standard 14-hour rule requires truck drivers to complete all driving within a strict 14-hour driving window, regardless of any non-driving tasks they may need to perform. Once the 14-hour clock starts, it cannot be paused or extended, even if you take breaks or spend time on other duties.

By allowing a two hour extension to the workday, the 16-hour rule enables short-haul drivers to better manage their time and accommodate the unique demands of their operations. However, it's important to note that the 16-hour exception does not increase the maximum driving time allowed. Truckers are still limited to 11 hours of driving within the extended 16-hour window.

The 34-hour restart provision provides additional flexibility for truck drivers to manage fatigue. The 34-hour restart rule enables long-haul drivers to reset their weekly on-duty limits—60 hours in 7 consecutive days or 70 hours in 8 consecutive days—by requiring 34 consecutive hours of off duty time. This reset can be taken at any point in the driver’s schedule and may include rest breaks spent in the sleeper berth. The restart helps ensure drivers receive sufficient rest before beginning a new duty cycle, improving both safety and compliance on longer hauls.

Recent updates to FMCSA Hours of Service regulations

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) periodically updates its HOS regulations to enhance safety, provide flexibility, and adapt to the evolving needs of the trucking industry.

Remaining current with FMCSA regulations is essential to avoid penalties, maintain safety standards, and ensure smooth fleet operations. On top of regular policy reviews, accurate logbooks, and internal audits, investing in the right technology—such as electronic logging devices (ELDs) and comprehensive fleet management software—can make HOS compliance significantly easier. These tools help to reduce administrative burden and create a safer, more efficient work environment for both truck drivers and fleet operators.

Here are a few recent updates to the FMCSA 16 hour rule that fleet managers need to know:

1. Expanded short-haul air-mile radius

On September 29, 2020, the short-haul air-mile radius was expanded from 100 to 150 air miles. This update allows more drivers to qualify for the 16-hour exception, provided they start and end their workday at the same location and remain within the 150 air-mile range. The change offers greater flexibility for local and regional drivers by extending their allowable driving period. 

2. 30-minute break exemption for short-haul drivers

Drivers using the 16-hour short-haul exception are no longer required to take a 30-minute break, as long as they do not exceed the 11-hour driving limit within the 16-hour window. This rule benefits short-haul drivers who often spend more time on non-driving tasks like loading and unloading, making their workday more efficient without compromising safety.

3. Additional HOS rule changes

Other recent updates to Hours of Service regulations include revisions to the adverse driving conditions exception and the split sleeper berth provision. A new short-haul exception was also introduced for commercial drivers transporting agricultural commodities within a 150 air-mile radius, increasing flexibility for agricultural operations.

Ensure compliance with Hours of Service (HOS) regulations with Samsara

Samsara’s ELD solution is a comprehensive, FMCSA-registered and third-party certified system designed to make compliance with Hours of Service (HOS) regulations both simple and effective. By connecting the ELD directly to a vehicle’s OBD port, you can automatically capture powerful insights such as engine data and driver activity. This enables fleets of all sizes to stay compliant with complex regulation, reducing downtime and maximizing operational efficiency.

To learn more about how Samsara can help you remain compliant, explore our ELD device and compliance solution and get in touch with our team today.