Expert Insights on DOT Compliance
In-depth analysis, regulatory updates, and practical compliance guidance from transportation attorneys and industry experts.
Do Short-Haul Drivers Need an ELD? Every ELD Exemption Explained
Short-haul drivers who qualify under 49 CFR 395.1(e) do not need an ELD, but every exemption has strict conditions. This guide covers every ELD exemption in effect today, from the 150 air-mile short-haul exceptions to driveaway-towaway, pre-2000 vehicles, agricultural operations, rental trucks, and industry-specific exemptions.
Brandon Wiseman
FMCSA Signals New Round of SMS Proposals: Where the CSA Overhaul Stands Today
FMCSA Chief Safety Officer Steve Dowling said on October 28, 2026 that SMS proposals are coming for industry comment. As of today, carriers are still scored under the existing seven-BASIC SMS methodology. The enhanced system FMCSA approved in November 2024 has not launched.
Brandon Wiseman
DataQs Updates & Best Practices: What Every Carrier Needs to Know After FMCSA's Nationwide Rollout
FMCSA has finalized a sweeping DataQs overhaul now live in all 50 states — including a mandatory three-stage review process, strict timelines, and new independence requirements. Here's what changed and what it means for your fleet's appeal strategy.
Brandon Wiseman
FMCSA Clearinghouse September 2026 Report: Key Data Trends Fleet Owners Need to Know
The FMCSA has released its September 2026 Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse Monthly Report. Here's a breakdown of the key data — including prohibited driver counts, violation trends, and what it means for your fleet's compliance program.
Brandon Wiseman
NRII Waiver Has Ended: What Carriers Need to Know as the Paper Med Card Era Closes for CDL Drivers
FMCSA's NRII waiver allowing paper medical certificates has officially expired — but Alaska remains unable to support the electronic process. Here's what carriers need to know.
Brandon Wiseman
FMCSA Denies FOPT Exemption Request to Allow Paper Logs in Place of ELDs
FMCSA has officially denied the Federation of Professional Truckers' application to allow drivers to use paper logs instead of ELDs, citing a congressional mandate under MAP-21 and the applicant's failure to demonstrate safety equivalency.
Brandon Wiseman
FMCSA Suspends USDOT Inactivations for Missed Biennial Updates During MOTUS Rollout
FMCSA has temporarily suspended USDOT number inactivations for missed biennial updates as carriers transition to the new MOTUS registration system. Here's what carriers need to know and do right now.
Brandon Wiseman
Federal Government Launches Historic Interagency Crackdown on CDL Fraud in Trucking
The U.S. Departments of Transportation, Homeland Security, and Justice have launched a historic interagency crackdown on CDL fraud, including emergency removal of 110+ training providers, a 40-state investigation, and formation of the Joint Task Force Crossroads of America. Here's what it means for compliant carriers.
Brandon Wiseman
States Sue FMCSA Over CDLIS Data Demand
Twenty-two states and D.C. have sued FMCSA over a demand for 17 million CDLIS driver records, threatening to shut down CDL issuance nationwide. Here's what the lawsuit means for your fleet and what to watch next.
Brandon WisemanNever Miss an Update
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