When planning a mobile marketing campaign, logistics go far beyond choosing the right vehicle. One of the most critical and often misunderstood regulations in the U.S. is the Department of Transportation (DOT) Hours of Service (HOS)rules. These laws govern how long a commercial driver can operate a vehicle—and breaking them can result in serious fines and tour delays.
At Event Marketing Drivers, we prioritize safety, legal compliance, and tour efficiency. Here’s a breakdown of how DOT hours work and why they matter for your experiential campaign.
What Are DOT Hours of Service?
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) sets strict limits on how many hours CDL drivers can work in a day and week to prevent fatigue-related accidents.
Key Limits Include:
- 11-Hour Driving Limit
A driver may drive up to 11 hours after 10 consecutive hours off duty.
- 14-Hour Workday Limit
Drivers may not drive after 14 consecutive hours on duty, regardless of breaks taken during the day.
- 30-Minute Break
Drivers must take a break of at least 30 minutes after 8 hours of driving.
- 60/70 Hour Weekly Limit
Drivers cannot exceed 60 hours on duty over 7 days or 70 hours over 8 days.
These rules apply to Class A CDL drivers hauling trailers for mobile activations, including expandable trailers and enclosed event units.
Why It Matters for Your Campaign
1. Schedule Planning
DOT limits impact how far your team can travel between tour stops. For example, a driver can’t legally drive 15 hours straight to make a tight event window. Experienced logistics teams plan routes that comply with HOS while minimizing downtime.
2. Onsite Support Considerations
If your driver is also setting up equipment or managing assets onsite, that time counts as “on duty,” which may affect their ability to legally drive afterward. Our team coordinates tour staffing to ensure the right balance between driving and event execution.
3. Real-Time Tracking and Logs
Most commercial drivers now use Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs) to automatically track compliance. At Event Marketing Drivers, our fleet adheres to FMCSA guidelines and uses real-time GPS and logging tools to ensure safety and accountability.
Why You Need an Experienced Support Team
Failing to follow HOS regulations can lead to:
- Fines or out-of-service orders
- Delays at weigh stations or inspections
- Increased liability in case of an incident
Our office staff works hand-in-hand with drivers to monitor hours, plan efficient routes, and handle any issues that arise. We also collaborate with trusted partners like CGS Premier and Event Vehicle Leasing to ensure every tour element is fully compliant.
Let’s Keep Your Tour on the Road—Legally
DOT hours aren’t just a regulation—they’re a key part of a safe, successful tour. Contact us to learn how our professional CDL drivers and support team can help keep your campaign on time and in compliance.