What does 49 CFR 395.5 (Maximum driving time for passenger-carrying vehicles) require?

Short answer

49 CFR 395.5 requires that drivers of passenger-carrying commercial motor vehicles not drive more than 10 hours following 8 consecutive hours off duty, or for any period after having been on duty 15 hours following 8 consecutive hours off duty.

The rule says

"No motor carrier shall permit or require any driver used by it to drive a passenger-carrying commercial motor vehicle, nor shall any such driver drive a passenger-carrying commercial motor vehicle: (1) More than 10 hours following 8 consecutive hours off duty; or (2) For any period after having been on duty 15 hours following 8 consecutive hours off duty." (49 CFR 395.5(a))

In plain English

The 10-hour driving limit and 15-hour on-duty limit are intended to ensure that drivers get enough rest and are not pushing themselves too hard. In practice, this means that motor carriers need to carefully manage their drivers' schedules and ensure that they are getting enough time off duty to rest.

What to do

• Monitor driver hours and ensure compliance with the 10-hour driving limit and 15-hour on-duty limit
• Require drivers to take regular breaks and get enough rest
• Implement a system for tracking driver hours and scheduling to prevent fatigue
• Train drivers and dispatchers on the importance of managing driver fatigue and complying with the regulations