After Hours of Service laws, perhaps nothing triggers more heated debate within the trucking industry than the mention of EOBR and AOBRD devices. What are they and what is their purpose? How will they impact a trucking company’s bottom line? We attempt to separate truth from fiction.
What is an Automatic On-Board Recording Device (AOBRD)?
An Automatic On-Board Recording Device (AOBRD) features an electronic logging system application that meets the FMCSA’s §395.15 standard. Upon request by law enforcement, an AOBRD must report:
- Total driving hours
- Total on-duty hours for seven consecutive days, including the day the report is requested by law enforcement
- Total hours for the prior eight consecutive days, including the day the report is requested
- On-duty status, including status change times for each driver operating the vehicle; the data must be reported sequentially
A motor carrier may require a driver to use an AOBRD to record their hours-of-service in lieu of a paper log book. For commercial motor vehicles manufactured prior to June 4, 2012, manufacturers or motor carriers may install an electronic device to record hours-of-service, provided the device meets the requirements of either §395.15 or §395.16.
Both XataNet and Turnpike are compliant AOBRDs.
What is an electronic onboard recorder (EOBR)?
An EOBR that meets the FMCSA §395.16 standard automatically records a driver’s duty status, as well as the amount of time they are in operation of the vehicle. They must be able to immediately deliver a print or digital report to law enforcement upon request.
A compliant device will record:
- Driver’s name, login ID, and all driver records
- Total on-duty hours on the day requested
- Total on-duty hours for seven consecutive days, including the day the report is requested by law enforcement
- Total hours for the prior consecutive eight day period
- Time, date, and location for each change of duty status for each driver using the EOBR
- Comments related to fueling, waypoints, loading times, violations, etc.
A compliant device will also alert the driver via audible or visual means when they are nearing their driving limit, approaching their on-duty time limit for a 24-hour period, or are nearing their weekly on-duty or driving time limitations. The warnings must be delivered at least 30 minutes in advance.
Want to know more about EOBRs and AOBRDs?
Learn about:
- Who will be affected by EOBR mandates and what is a compliant device
- Fixed displays vs. mobile technology
- Common myths about electronic on-board recorders
Related articles:
 Electronic onboard recorders: They deliver more than just compliance |
 Ten things to think about before you purchase an electronic onboard recorder |
