ELD compliance guide
FMCSA Registered ELD List: How to Check if Your ELD Is Compliant
Search FMCSA’s public list by company, model or ID, and make sure your device isn’t on the revoked list.
ELD device
12 months of service included
Step by step
How to check your ELD in 3 steps
Open FMCSA’s ELD list
Go to eld.fmcsa.dot.gov and open the ELD list. It’s free and public, with no account needed.
Search for your ELD
Type the company name, device name, model number or ELD ID into the search box on the list.
Match the model and version
Check that the model and software version match your device label or your app’s “About” screen.
Also check the revoked list. A device can be removed from FMCSA’s list.
Source: FMCSA registered ELD list
Know the words
Registered vs approved vs certified vs compliant
FMCSA calls them “registered ELDs”. That’s why searching for an “approved list” brings you to the registered list.
- FMCSA’s term
Registered ELD
The device is on FMCSA’s list. The manufacturer self-certified that it meets the ELD rule, then registered it. This is FMCSA’s own term.
Search forFMCSA registered ELD list
Approved ELD
Common wording, but FMCSA doesn’t test or approve ELDs. There’s no separate “approved list”. Those searches lead to the registered list.
Search forThe registered list, not an “approved” list
Certified ELD
The manufacturer certifies the device itself. FMCSA doesn’t certify devices. Each entry on the list has the maker’s certifying statement.
Search forThe certifying statement in the device’s entry
Compliant ELD
The device meets the technical spec and is used correctly: mounted, documents in the cab, malfunctions handled.
Search forThe registered list + the checklist below
Source: FMCSA ELD FAQ · 49 CFR Part 395, Subpart B
The checklist
What makes an ELD compliant
Connects to the engine
Plugs into the engine (ECM) and records driving time automatically.
Records the right data
Duty status, date, time, location, engine hours, miles, and driver and truck IDs.
Transfers data to an officer
Telematics (web services and email) or local (USB and Bluetooth).
Detects malfunctions
Detects and shows malfunctions and data problems to the driver.
What to do when your ELD malfunctions
Keeps a record of edits
Edits keep the original record and need a note. The driver certifies each day’s log.
Documents in the cab
ELD user manual, data-transfer instruction sheet, malfunction instruction sheet, and blank paper logs for at least 8 days.
Mounted where you can see it
Mounted in a fixed position. The driver can see it from the normal driving seat.
ELD mounting requirementsNot sure you need an ELD at all?
Check who needs one, and the exemptions.
Source: 49 CFR 395.22 · 49 CFR 395.34 · 49 CFR Part 395, Subpart B
Free app: $0Plug-in deviceEngine connectionMost asked question
Can I use my phone as an ELD?
Your phone can run the ELD app, but the ELD rule needs an engine connection. A phone app + a small plug-in device is the cheapest compliant setup.
- $0Free app
- $180Device + 1 year of service
If your device was removed
Revoked ELDs: what it means and what to do
What revocation is
FMCSA removes a device from the registered list when it doesn’t meet the ELD rule and the maker doesn’t fix it.
See the revoked listWhat carriers must do
Replace it with a registered ELD. In past revocations, FMCSA gave carriers 60 days. Check FMCSA’s notice for your device.
Until you switch
Follow FMCSA’s revocation notice. It has told drivers to use paper logs or logging software in the meantime.
Switch without losing your logs
- Export your old logs
Download your records from the old ELD before you remove it.
- Install Route One
Get the free app and plug in a registered device.
- Keep the export for 6 months
Carriers must keep records of duty status for 6 months.
Source: FMCSA revoked ELD list · 49 CFR 395.8
At the inspection
What an officer checks at roadside
Officer asks for your logs
Stay calm. Have your ELD and the in-cab documents ready.
Open inspection mode
Show the screen, or hand the device over without unlocking anything else.
Transfer the data
Send the logs by telematics (web services or email) or local transfer (USB or Bluetooth).
Officer reviews
The officer checks your hours, edits and any malfunctions.
Keep in the cab
The 4 documents you need with your ELD
- ELD user manual
- Data-transfer instruction sheet
- Malfunction instruction sheet
- Blank paper logs for 8+ days
Source: 49 CFR Part 395, Subpart B
Proof, then price
A registered ELD. A clear price.
- FMCSA-registered: ES2022
- No long-term contract
- Roadside transfer built in
Quick answers
FMCSA ELD list questions
Is there an official FMCSA list of approved ELDs?
FMCSA doesn’t approve ELDs. It keeps a public list of registered ELDs at eld.fmcsa.dot.gov. Manufacturers self-certify that a device meets the ELD rule, then register it there.
How do I check if my ELD is FMCSA-registered?
Open the ELD list on eld.fmcsa.dot.gov, search by company, model or ELD ID, then match the model number and software version with your device. Also check the revoked list.
Is Route One ELD FMCSA-registered?
Yes, Route One ELD is on FMCSA’s registered ELD list. Registration ID: ES2022. You can look it up on FMCSA’s site.
What happens if my ELD is revoked?
You have to replace it with a registered ELD. In past revocations, FMCSA gave carriers 60 days. Until you switch, follow FMCSA’s notice; it has told drivers to use paper logs or logging software. Keep your old records.
Can I use my phone as an ELD?
Your phone can run the ELD app, but the ELD rule needs an engine connection. A phone app plus a small plug-in device is the cheapest compliant setup.
What documents do I need in the truck with my ELD?
Four things: the ELD user manual, the data-transfer instruction sheet, the malfunction instruction sheet, and blank paper logs for at least 8 days.
Is there an FMCSA approved ELD list PDF?
FMCSA’s list is a searchable web page, with a download option for the list of registered devices. The list changes when devices are added or revoked, so always check the live page.
Check it. Then switch with confidence.
Get an ELD that’s on FMCSA’s registered list
Free app + ELD device and 1 year of service for $180.