HOS / Hours of Service
Hours of Service rules limit how long commercial drivers can drive and work before required breaks and rest periods.
What you actually need to know
HOS rules are about fatigue management. They affect driving windows, duty time, breaks, resets, and what your logs must show during a roadside inspection.
Most interstate drivers track HOS with an ELD. If your ELD is malfunctioning or you qualify for an exemption, you still need a compliant way to show records.
New owner-operators should understand HOS before accepting a load. A load that pays well can still be a bad business decision if it cannot be run legally.
Common mistakes / confusions
- Off duty, sleeper berth, driving, and on duty are different statuses.
- A broker deadline does not override HOS rules.
- Personal conveyance is not a magic reset.
Related terms
Where to go next
TruckStart is an educational tool, not a law firm, accounting firm, insurance agency, freight broker, or filing service. Always verify current requirements directly with FMCSA, your state, the IRS, and qualified professionals before making business decisions.