Truck drivers who want the option to return to paper logbooks may soon have a chance to weigh in.
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration is taking public comments on an exemption request that would allow drivers and carriers to choose manual paper logs instead of electronic logging devices.
The request comes from the Federation of Professional Truckers, which is asking FMCSA to grant a broad industry-wide exemption from current ELD requirements.
If approved, the change would allow any driver or motor carrier to use paper logs to meet records of duty status requirements. Under current federal rules, manual logs are limited to drivers who use them for eight days or fewer in 30 days or those operating engines manufactured before 2000.
Why the Exemption Was Requested
In its petition, FOPT argues that electronic logging devices create financial strain, particularly for small carriers and owner-operators.
“Paper logbooks remain enforceable and understood by enforcement officers nationwide,” wrote Michael Cobb, CEO of FOPT, a non-profit advocacy group based in Ohio, in their petition to FMCSA.
“Small carriers face disproportionate financial burdens from ELD requirements, as compliance costs exceed $500 annually per truck according to FMCSA’s Regulatory Impact Analysis. Technical limitations and frequent malfunctions highlight the continued necessity of paper alternatives.”
The group also referenced Executive Order 12866, which directs federal agencies to avoid unnecessary regulations when reasonable alternatives exist. According to FOPT, giving drivers the option to choose between digital and paper logs would maintain compliance without weakening safety standards.
“Allowing drivers to use either method ensures compliance without undermining safety,” they asserted.
Safety Plan Included in Petition
To address concerns about hours of service compliance, FOPT included a safety assurance plan with its request. The proposal outlines:
- Education for members on proper paper log completion
- Random internal audits conducted by carriers
- Removal from the exemption program for drivers who violate hours of service rules
The group’s argument centers on proving that a structured paper log program can provide an equivalent level of safety compared to electronic logging systems.
What Could Impact FMCSA’s Decision
The outcome may depend on whether FMCSA believes manual logs can deliver the same level of oversight as ELD systems.
Recent federal actions have focused on enforcement transparency and technology oversight. The agency has been tightening its review of approved ELD devices, removing non-compliant units from the market and addressing fraud concerns. That approach suggests regulators may prefer improving the existing system rather than expanding exemptions.
At the same time, the current administration has supported several initiatives seen as favorable to owner-operators, including backing away from speed limiter proposals and certain restrictions affecting foreign drivers.
How those priorities balance against data-driven enforcement goals could shape FMCSA’s response.
How Drivers Can Comment
FMCSA is accepting public comments on the exemption request through March 11.
Drivers, owner-operators, and motor carriers who have strong views on ELD requirements or paper log options can submit feedback directly to the agency before the deadline.
For drivers who believe ELD costs and technical issues affect day-to-day operations, this comment period represents an opportunity to be heard.
Source: Freightwaves
