Canadian ELD mandate: A guide to rules and requirements
You must understand the Canadian ELD mandate if your fleet operates in Canada. This rule is part of the electronic logging device mandate Canada created to improve road safety and reduce fatigue. This rule applies to truck drivers using electronic logging devices to track their daily logs and off-duty hours.
For a deeper look at ELD basics, see our post on What is an ELD?
What is the Canadian ELD mandate?
The Canadian ELD mandate is a federal motor carrier safety rule that requires federally regulated carriers to use electronic logging devices Canada-wide. Canada HOS rules ensure drivers stay within safe drive time limits and maintain accurate records of duty status (RODS).
- Implementation: Managed by Transport Canada.
- Scope: Applies to carriers that cross provincial or international borders.
- Provincial differences: Each province can add its own rules. If you operate within one province, confirm local requirements.
Are electronic logging devices (ELD) mandatory in Canada?
You must follow the Canada ELD mandate if you fall under federal regulations. Although this rule took effect in June 2021, enforcement was gradual. Fleets operating in one province may also face these requirements if the province uses the Canadian ELD mandate.
To compare U.S. rules, refer to our DOT Hours of Service blog.
Why do Canadian HOS regulations matter?
Canadian HOS regulations define drive time limits and hours of off duty for truck drivers:
- Daily limit: Up to 13 hours of driving in a 14-hour workday
- Off-duty: 10 hours of rest each day, with at least 8 of those hours in one block
- Duty status RODS: ELDs record on-duty, off-duty and sleeper berth periods
Fleet managers can prevent violations by keeping daily logs. Drivers north of the border must follow Canadian HOS regulations. For more on inspection processes, see DVIR.
Key Canada ELD regulations and rules
Under the Canadian ELD mandate, devices must meet several criteria:
- Technical standards: Each ELD must pass data accuracy tests
- Third-party certification: A Canada-certified ELD must appear on Transport Canada’s official list
- Roadside inspection: Drivers should know how to share logs with officers.
- RODS retention: Carriers must store ELD data for audits, often up to six months
Explore our Radius ELD solutions that align with these standards.
Comparing the Canadian mandate to U.S. rules
Both Canada and the U.S. aim for FMCSA compliance, but differences exist:
| Canada | USA | |
| Certification | Canada-certified ELD devices undergo third-party testing | Vendors self-certify their ELDs |
| Hours of service | Up to 13 hours of driving in 14 hours | Up to 11 hours of driving in a 14-hour on-duty window |
| Enforcement | Phased enforcement with some provincial variations | Strict rollout and fewer grace periods |
Cross-border operations If you operate in both countries, choose an ELD following federal motor carrier safety rules. See FMCSA ELD Exemptions for U.S.-specific scenarios.
How to find a Canada-certified ELD
Transport Canada lists all Canada-approved ELDs. Follow these steps:
- Check official listings: Make sure the ELD is on Transport Canada’s registry
- Look for frequent updates: Software patches fix issues and follow new federal regulations
- Real-time support: Some ELDs offer messaging and navigation to help fleet managers
- Cross-border fit: If you run in both Canada and the U.S., confirm the device can work in both places
ELD Canada law: Non-compliance consequences
Violating ELD Canada law can lead to:
- Fines: Monetary penalties for not complying
- Safety ratings: Frequent violations lower your safety score
- Border delays: Longer inspections if you are not compliant
- Reduced data insights: Poor logs make it harder to track risks or manage costs
Steps to achieve ELD compliance in Canada
Stay in line with Canada ELD regulations:
- Select a certified ELD: Confirm it appears on Transport Canada’s list
- Train drivers: Show them how to handle daily logs, RODS and inspections
- Keep records: Retain logs for at least six months. If the ELD breaks, use paper logs until you repair it
- Stay informed: Watch for updates to Canadian HOS regulations
- Review data: Use ELD info to spot unsafe habits or excessive driving time
The Radius ELD system provides access to essential features that allow seamless integration with your fleet management system. Find out more about our ELD software and devices.
Are there U.S. ELD mandate exemptions for Canadian drivers?
Yes. If your truck drivers cross into the U.S., they must comply with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration regulations. Some exemptions include:
Short-haul drivers
Those within a 150 air-mile radius (non-CDL) under 395.1(e)(1) and (e)(2)
Drive-away or tow-away
If the commercial vehicle is part of the shipment, no ELD is required
Older vehicles
Engines from model year 1999 or older may be exempt
Limited logs
Drivers who keep logs for 8 or fewer days in 30 days may be exempt
Agricultural operations
Certain farm and livestock carriers qualify for exemptions
These exemptions do not apply in Canada. You must still follow Canadian HOS regulations when you drive north of the border.
Frequently asked questions
Can’t find an answer to your question? Talk to the Radius customer support team at 888-278-9781. We’re here to help you with any questions or concerns.
Are U.S. ELD devices automatically acceptable in Canada?
What if a driver crosses into Canada without a certified device?
Do Canada’s ELD rules apply to single-province carriers?
Are older vehicles exempt from Canada’s ELD requirements?
Disclaimer: This post is for general information and does not constitute legal advice. Always check official Transport Canada sources or consult legal counsel for compliance details.