Is Your ELD Revoked? The 60-Day Countdown for January 20th

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Is Your ELD Revoked? The 60-Day Countdown for January 20th

What drivers must do right now to stay legal

✅ The Direct Answer: If your electronic logging device (ELD) has been revoked by the FMCSA, you have a 60-day transition period to replace it with a compliant unit. During that window, paper logs are the only legal way to record hours of service until a new ELD is installed and functioning.

The FMCSA has recently removed several ELD providers — including Ontime Logs and Green Light — from the approved registry. If you’re still running one of these systems, the clock is already ticking.

What Does “ELD Revoked” Actually Mean?

So basically… when an ELD is revoked, it means the device no longer meets FMCSA technical or compliance requirements and has been removed from the official registry.

Once that happens, the device is treated as non-compliant. Enforcement officers can see revoked ELDs during roadside inspections, even if the unit still powers on or appears to be working.

Official FMCSA reference: FMCSA Electronic Logging Device Program

The 60-Day Countdown Explained (Plain English)

Think about it like this… the FMCSA gives you time to replace equipment, not time to ignore the problem.

  • The 60-day transition period begins on the date the ELD is officially revoked.
  • You must stop using the revoked ELD and switch to paper logs.
  • You are allowed to use paper logs only during this replacement window.
  • By the end of the 60 days, a compliant ELD must be installed and operational.

If you miss the deadline, you risk:

  • Out-of-service orders
  • Hours-of-service violations
  • CSA score damage
  • Load delays or shutdowns

Important Clarification: 7–8 Days vs. 60 Days (This Confuses Drivers)

Okay now… this is where a lot of drivers get mixed up, so let’s clear it up once and for all.

ELD Malfunction (7–8 Day Rule)

  • Applies when a compliant ELD temporarily fails or malfunctions.
  • You may use paper logs for a short period while the unit is repaired or replaced.
  • This is where drivers hear about the 7–8 day window.

ELD Revocation (60-Day Rule)

  • Applies when the FMCSA removes an ELD from the approved registry.
  • The device is considered non-compliant immediately.
  • You must switch to paper logs right away.
  • The FMCSA allows up to 60 days to install a compliant replacement.

Bottom line: The 7–8 day malfunction rule does not apply to revoked ELDs. Revocation is a separate enforcement action with its own timeline.

Why Paper Logs Are Your Only Legal Backup Right Now

When an ELD is revoked, it’s treated as if it doesn’t exist for compliance purposes. That means:

  • You cannot continue logging electronically on that system.
  • You must maintain current and previous 7 days of logs on paper.
  • Your paper logs must be complete, accurate, and inspection-ready.

If you don’t already have compliant paper logs in your truck, you should get them immediately. Drivers can find backup paper logbooks and related compliance tools here:

Backup Paper Logs & Compliance Tools

Step-by-Step: What Drivers Should Do Right Now

Let me show you the cleanest way to handle this without getting sidelined.

Step 1: Confirm Your ELD Status

  • Check the FMCSA registry to see if your ELD provider is still approved.

Step 2: Switch to Paper Logs Immediately

  • Do not wait until inspection day.
  • Log all duty status changes clearly and accurately.

Step 3: Order a Compliant Replacement ELD

  • Choose an ELD listed on the FMCSA approved registry.
  • Confirm compatibility with your operation.

Step 4: Learn the New System Before You Roll

  • Know how to transfer logs during an inspection.
  • Understand malfunction vs. revocation rules.

Common Mistakes That Get Drivers Put Out of Service

  • Assuming a revoked ELD is okay because it still powers on.
  • Not carrying paper logs during the transition.
  • Waiting too long to order a replacement.
  • Trying to show inspectors screenshots instead of proper logs.

Helpful Compliance Resources

The Bottom Line

So basically… if your ELD has been revoked, paper logs are your legal bridge — but only temporarily.

You have a limited window to replace the device. Drivers who understand the difference between a malfunction and a revocation are the ones who stay rolling while others get parked.

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