How should a driver record their hours of duty?

Recording hours of duty is a critical task for drivers, especially those operating commercial vehicles. The requirement to maintain a record in duplicate for inspection is vital for compliance with federal and state regulations. This ensures that the records can be easily accessed for review by regulatory authorities, such as the Department of Transportation, or for internal audits by the driver's employer.

Having accurate, well-maintained, and readily available documentation helps demonstrate adherence to hours-of-service regulations designed to prevent fatigue-related accidents. By keeping records in duplicate, one copy can be kept by the driver while another can be submitted or made available for inspection, ensuring transparency and accountability.

Other methods of recording hours, such as relying solely on personal documents or verbal reports, lack the formal structure needed for legal compliance and can lead to miscommunication or inaccuracies. Digital platforms may be effective, but they are not the only acceptable method, as the requirement focuses on the ability to provide clear and official documentation when needed.