Do I need an ELD for local loads?

Drivers and companies working on local routes often ask: do I need an electronic logging device (ELD) if I only haul within a city or state?
The answer depends on whether you fall under FMCSA requirements and qualify for the short-haul exemption.

This article explains how the rules work, when an ELD is mandatory, and when you can operate without one.

 

Understanding local loads & Short-haul operations

 

The term local loads in the industry usually refers to short-distance deliveries — often within a single region or radius of just a few dozen miles.
FMCSA uses the term short-haul operations, which has specific criteria:

  • operations within a 150 air-mile radius (about 241 km),
  • the driver returns to the same location where the shift began,
  • the shift does not exceed 14 hours.

If these conditions are met, the driver may be exempt from using an ELD.

 

ELD requirements for local drivers

 

An ELD becomes mandatory when a driver is required to keep a Record of Duty Status (RODS). This happens if:

  • the trip goes beyond the 150 air-mile radius,
  • the shift exceeds the allowed hours,
  • the driver does not return to the same reporting location,
  • the company or driver is otherwise required to comply with Hours of Service (HOS) rules.

Important: if even one short-haul condition is violated, the driver must use an ELD.

 

Short-haul ELD exemptions

 

FMCSA outlines several situations when drivers are exempt from using an ELD:

  • Short-haul exemption (150 air-mile radius, return to the same reporting point, no more than 14 hours).
  • Driveaway-towaway operations (when the vehicle itself is the product being transported).
  • Commercial vehicles with engine model year 2000 or older.
  • Drivers who must keep RODS for no more than 8 days within a 30-day period may use paper logs temporarily.

These exemptions allow many local drivers to operate without an ELD. However, during inspections, it is important to provide documents confirming the right to exemption.

 

Conclusion

 

The question of whether you need an ELD for local loads has no one-size-fits-all answer. It depends on your exact working conditions. If you strictly meet the short-haul exemption, you may not need an ELD. But any deviation from those rules makes the device mandatory.

Many fleets still choose to equip ELDs even for local operations. This helps avoid mistakes, simplifies compliance checks, and makes recordkeeping easier. Unity ELD recommends viewing ELD adoption as a long-term investment in safety and transparency.

 

FAQ

 

Do local truck drivers have to use an ELD?

Not always. If they qualify for the short-haul exemption, an ELD is not required. Otherwise, it is mandatory.

What’s the difference between local loads and short-haul in FMCSA terms?

Local loads is a general industry term for short-distance hauls. Short-haul is FMCSA’s legal definition with specific criteria (150 air-mile radius, hour limits, return to same point).

Can I still use paper logs for local deliveries?

Yes, if you qualify for the short-haul exemption. But if you break any of its conditions, you must use an ELD.

Is it worth getting an ELD if I’m exempt?

In many cases, yes. ELDs reduce mistakes and simplify compliance, even when they’re not strictly required.