The ELD packet, and what to do the minute it fails
Three documents have to be in the cab, and the rule for a failed device is specific: notify in writing within 24 hours and reconstruct on paper.
- Author
- Relay Dispatch Desk
- Published
- 18 Aug 2026
- Verified
- 15 Aug 2026
- Re-checked
- quarterly
Key takeaways
- Three items make up the in-cab ELD packet, and the third is eight days of blank paper grids.
- A malfunction is reported to the carrier in writing within 24 hours.
- You reconstruct the current day and the previous seven on paper, and keep logging on paper until the device is fixed.
- The carrier has eight days to repair, replace or service the device.
What the regulation requires in the cab
An information packet containing … a user's guide for the driver describing how to transfer hours-of-service records, an instruction sheet describing ELD malfunction reporting requirements, and a supply of blank driver's records of duty status graph-grids sufficient … for a minimum of 8 days.
49 CFR § 395.22(h)
The moment it fails
Notify the motor carrier in writing within 24 hours of the malfunction. That notice is the thing that shifts the clock onto the carrier, so send it even if you have already phoned somebody.
Reconstruct the record of duty status for the current 24-hour period and the previous seven consecutive days, and continue to record your status manually until the device is working again.
The carrier then has eight days to repair, replace or service the device — measured from the notification, which is another reason to put it in writing.
Sources
- eCFR (GPO/OFR) · 49 CFR § 395.22 — Motor carrier responsibilities: in general · 49 CFR § 395.22 · accessed 15 Aug 2026
- eCFR (GPO/OFR) · 49 CFR § 395.34 — ELD malfunctions and data diagnostic events · 49 CFR § 395.34 · accessed 15 Aug 2026
- FMCSA · Registered and revoked ELD lists · accessed 15 Aug 2026
Re-verified quarterly. Educational summary — the regulation controls. Not legal advice.
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