An official website of the United States government
Official websites use .gov
A .gov website belongs to an official government organization in the United States.
Secure .gov websites use HTTPS
A lock ( ) or https:// means you’ve safely connected to the .gov website. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites.
How do the hours a driver worked under an emergency exemption impact the 60/70-hour rule when the driver goes back to normal operations?
The hours worked providing direct assistance under the emergency relief exemption do not count toward the 60/70- hour rule.
Is a driver required to take a 30-minute break while providing direct assistance under an emergency declaration?
No, none of the hours of service regulations apply while the driver is engaged with providing direct assistance under the emergency relief exemption.
Are loads that include supplies related to direct assistance under the emergency declaration mixed with other, un-related materials covered under an emergency declaration?
Generally, yes, however, mixed loads with only a nominal quantity of qualifying emergency...
Can an emergency declaration be extended?
Yes, under 49 CFR § 390.25 FMCSA may extend the 30-day time period of a regional emergency declaration issued under 49 CFR § 390.23(a)(1) taking into account the severity of the ongoing emergency and the nature of the relief services to be...
How do I log my time when operating under an emergency exemption?
Since the hours-of-service rules do not apply when operating under declaration of emergency issued under 49 CFR 390.23, you do not have to maintain a record of duty status (log). However, it is recommended that,...
How do I need to identify my vehicle when providing direct assistance? What paperwork must I carry?
There are no specific requirements to identify a vehicle operating under an emergency declaration or for paperwork that must be carried on the vehicle. However, drivers should be...
Am I still exempt while returning empty from delivering an exempt load?
49 CFR 390.23 provides, in part, “…A driver may return empty to the motor carrier's terminal or the driver's normal work reporting location without complying with parts 390 through 399 of this chapter. However, a...
Is the time spent driving to pick up a truck regulated as on duty time?
No. Time spent travelling to work in a personal vehicle does not meet the definition of on duty time in 49 CFR 395.2.
I have a truck that is not normally used commercially and a local charitable group wants me to take donated clothing and supplies to the impacted area. What do I need to know?
Be certain to read all of the FAQs for 49 CFR 390.23 to ensure compliance, and consult your State’s...
Are motor carriers required to obtain approval from the FMCSA prior to participating in the emergency relief effort?
No. With one exception, any motor carrier providing direct assistance, as defined in the regulations, to the emergency relief effort may participate. ...