The ELD mandate is fully in effect, and FMCSA enforcement is stricter than ever. Here's everything Louisiana commercial drivers and fleet operators need to know about ELD compliance in 2025.

What is the ELD Mandate?

The Electronic Logging Device (ELD) mandate requires most commercial motor vehicle (CMV) drivers to use electronic devices to record their hours of service (HOS). The mandate replaced paper logbooks to improve road safety and prevent fatigued driving.

Key Dates:

December 2017: ELD mandate went into effect
December 2019: Full enforcement began
2025: Stricter enforcement and penalties

Who Must Use an ELD?

You must use an ELD if you:

Operate a commercial motor vehicle (CMV) in interstate commerce
Are required to keep Records of Duty Status (RODS)
Drive vehicles over 10,001 lbs GVWR or transport hazmat

Exemptions

Some drivers are exempt from the ELD mandate:

• Short-haul drivers — Operating within 150 air-mile radius
• Driveaway-towaway operators — Delivering vehicles
• Vehicles manufactured before 2000 — No engine ECM
• Drivers who log 8 days or fewer per 30-day period

Important:

Even if you're exempt, you may still benefit from an ELD for record-keeping and liability protection. Consult with a transportation compliance expert if you're unsure about your status.

Penalties for Non-Compliance

The consequences of ELD violations are severe:

Up to $16,000

Per violation fine

Out of Service

Vehicle placed OOS until compliant

CSA Score Impact

Affects your safety rating

Lost Revenue

Downtime while resolving issues

Choosing an ELD Device

All ELD devices must be registered with FMCSA. Popular options include:

Motive (formerly KeepTruckin) — AI-powered platform with dash cam integration
Samsara — Complete fleet operations platform
Vyncs — Affordable ELD with GPS tracking

ELD Installation Requirements

ELD devices must be properly installed and connected to your vehicle's engine to function correctly. This includes:

Connection to the diagnostic port (J1939 or J1708)
Proper mounting for driver visibility
Configuration for your specific vehicle
Testing to ensure accurate data recording

Benefits Beyond Compliance

ELDs aren't just about compliance — they offer real business benefits:

Reduced paperwork — No more manual logbooks
Better fleet visibility — Know where your trucks are
Fuel savings — Identify inefficient driving
Easier audits — Digital records are easier to manage
Insurance benefits — Some insurers offer discounts

Getting Your Fleet Compliant

If you're managing a fleet in Louisiana, here's how to get started:

1 Audit your fleet — Identify which vehicles need ELDs
2 Choose a provider — Select an FMCSA-registered ELD
3 Schedule installation — Professional installation recommended
4 Train your drivers — Ensure proper device usage

The ELD Mandate: What Louisiana Truckers Need to Know