Electronic Logging Devices

Electronic Logging Device Information For Motor Carriers and Drivers

What is an electronic logging device?
An electronic logging device (ELD) is a tamper-resistant device that automatically records driving time by syncing with a vehicle’s engine, making it easier to maintain a driver’s record of duty status, also known as daily logs. Certified devices are listed on Transport Canada’s webpage.

What are the benefits of an electronic logging device?
Electronic logging devices help you work within permitted driving hours and promotes fairer competition among motor carriers by ensuring all carriers are following government regulations.

Who needs an electronic logging device?
You need an electronic logging device:

  • If you are required to track your hours of service by filling out a record of duty status, even occasionally.
  • If you drive 160 km outside of your home terminal or temporary worksite.

When do I need an electronic logging device?

Federal Carriers:

  • Federally regulated carriers, which are those travelling between provinces or across the Canadian border, were required to have ELDs as of January 1, 2023.

Provincial Carriers:

  • Provincially regulated carriers, which are those which travel within the province only, are required to have ELDs starting December 1, 2023.
  • All provincial carriers are encouraged to take the necessary steps now to comply with the electronic logging device mandate.

Am I exempt from using an electronic logging device?
If you are a provincial carrier operating within 160 km of your home terminal or temporary work site you will not need to use an ELD if:

  • you return to your home terminal or temporary work site each day, and
  • the motor carrier you work for maintains accurate and legible daily records, including the cycle you followed and on-duty time.

If you are a provincial carrier and drive farther than 160 km at any time, you will require an ELD.

You do not need an ELD:

  • If the vehicle is manufactured before model year 2000 (vehicles model year 2000 or newer, but with pre-2000 engines, are not exempt).
  • If you rent a truck and the rental agreement is no longer than 30 days.
  • If you operate a school bus.
  • If the vehicle is owned or operated on behalf of a public utility.
  • If the vehicle is operated under a permit issued by the Registrar of Motor Vehicles.
  • If you are a motor carrier operating with an exemption granted under section 16 of the Motor Vehicle Transport Act.

How do I get an electronic logging device?
Approved devices are listed on Transport Canada’s webpage.

What electronic logging device should I purchase?
Many devices come with functionality beyond the minimum requirements specified in the Regulations. Prepare a list of functions your operation needs, and find a certified device that matches your requirements.

Important links:

For more information on the National Safety Code:
Tel: (709) 729-0100
Toll Free: 1 (877) 636-6867
Email: NSC@gov.nl.ca