Log Books For Beginners

Log Books For Beginners

Paper

Electronic

Start

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What is a log book?

A trucker’s log book tracks how many hours a driver spends driving, resting, or on duty. It helps make sure drivers follow safety rules and avoid driving while tired.

Paper Log vs Electronic Log

For the next page, you will need to flip the device that you are on

sideways.

Filling Out a Logbook

Why is this one not correct?

1. The off-duty time is correct because the driver officially began their workday at 7:00 AM. That's when they went "on the clock" and started their job-related activities.
2. But at 7:00 AM, the driver did not begin driving right away—they started with a pre-trip inspection. This activity should be logged as "On Duty, Not Driving," not under the "Driving".

Why is this one not correct?

1. The driver began their shift at 7:00 AM but failed to record the required "Off Duty" hours prior to starting, which are necessary for a complete and accurate log.
2. The driver only completed a pre-trip inspection, so the recorded driving hours are inaccurate and should not be logged as drive time.

What is wrong with this log?

1. The driver never documented the off duty hours.
2. The driver did not sum up the total hours for off-duty, sleeper berth, driving, or on-duty.
3. Driver did not document any breaks.

What is wrong with this log?

1. The driver did not properly document their "lunch" as "off duty". Instead, the driver marked their lunch as "on duty, not driving" which is not correct.

Electronic Logs (ELD)

How ELDs Work?

When are log books needed?

If you drive locally, you may not need to keep a log book, but it depends on whether you qualify for the short-haul exemption under FMCSA rules. You do NOT need a log book if all of the following are true:

• You return to the same work reporting location each day.

• You drive within a 150-mile radius of that location.
• You do not drive more than 14 hours in a single day.

• Your employer keeps accurate time records of your hours.

If any of these conditions are not met, then you must use an ELD or paper log to track your hours.

What happens if I do not keep a log book?

• Fines and Penalties – Law enforcement may issue citations or fines for Hours of Service (HOS) violations.

• Out-of-Service Order – The driver may be placed out of service for up to 10 hours, meaning they cannot drive until they are compliant.

• Impact on CDL – Repeated violations can lead to points on their CDL and possible suspension.

• Company Penalties – The trucking company can also be fined or penalized for not ensuring compliance.

Play

You have successfully completed the log book course for beginners. Knowing how to manage a log book will put you in a better position than most newly licensed CDL Holders. Click this link to get your certificate emailed to you for completing this course.