Stay Compliant: The Risks of Using Revoked ELDs

Stay Compliant: The Risks of Using Revoked ELDs

The FMCSA recently revoked ten electronic logging devices (ELDs) due to failure to meet minimum technical requirements. Included in the list were devices from OnTime Logs, Ev ELD Inc., and several others that have previously faced similar issues. This brings the total to ninety revoked devices over the past eighteen and a half months, averaging nearly five per month.

Compliance is non-negotiable in this industry, and using a revoked ELD can have serious consequences. After September 8, 2026, roadside enforcement will start citing drivers for no record of duty status if they're found using these revoked devices. This could lead to violations landing in your Safety Management System (SMS) and vetting systems — a mark that can affect your reputation and future business.

It's crucial to heed the ongoing warnings from regulators. As Administrator Derek Barrs stated, enforcement will continue to focus on compliance to protect public safety and ensure accountability within the commercial motor vehicle sector.

The lesson here is clear: don’t rely on revoked devices. Revert to compliant logging practices or software immediately if you're using one of the revoked ELDs.

Operational Takeaways for Truck Fleet Managers:

1. Audit Your Vendors: Ensure that your device provider doesn't have a history of compliance failures. A company may produce multiple devices that could potentially share the same engineering problems.
2. Documentation Practices: With the threat of citations looming, rely on documented hours-of-service records. Trucko.ai’s POD verification and odometer capture can help you avoid issues that manual tracking — which is prone to fraud and inaccuracies — can cause.
3. Stay Ahead of Changes: Subscribe to industry updates to ensure you're aware of product failings, recalls, or regulatory changes that could impact your fleet's compliance.

In short, don’t wait for the next revocation notice to act. Transition to compliant systems now to keep your operations smooth and legal.