ELDs become mandatory in BC

Mandated use of electronic logging devices (ELDs) comes into effect throughout British Columbia on Tuesday, Aug. 1, 2023.

ELDs automatically track drivers’ time behind the wheel, reducing the likelihood of driving while tired and helping to ensure they stick to the allowable regulation driving time in a day.

Commercial motor vehicle drivers will still need to enter some of the information from their record of duty status (like on-duty time related to fueling, loading or unloading), the ELD will automatically record other information like driving time, odometer readings, and engine power-up.

The requirement for ELDs in B.C. was announced in February 2023, giving B.C. carriers six months to install ELDs throughout their fleets and to complete driver and dispatcher training. Government has partnered with carriers to introduce this tool to increase safety and reduce the risks associated with driver fatigue.

This is in step with federal ELD regulations, which Transport Canada established for the inter-provincial trucking sector in 2021, and has been committed to by all provinces and territories. Enforcement of the federal regulations began on Jan. 1, 2023.

ELDs improve the management of driver hours of service, and help the trucking industry by reducing paperwork and associated costs.