If you’re a commercial truck driver or operate a fleet in Canada, understanding the trucking hours of service (HOS) is not just important—it’s the law. These regulations are designed to ensure safety on the road for everyone, including you. Whether you’re new to the industry or need a refresher, this guide will walk you through all aspects of hours of service rules in Canada.
Understanding the Basics
What Are Trucking Hours of Service?
Trucking Hours of Service (HOS) are federal rules that regulate how long a commercial driver can be on duty and behind the wheel. These laws aim to reduce driver fatigue, which is a major contributor to accidents involving heavy vehicles.For a full breakdown of Canada’s federal HOS rules, visit the official Transport Canada Hours of Service page.
Why Are They Important?
HOS rules are crucial for protecting driver health, public safety, and freight reliability. Staying within these legal limits helps avoid fines, out-of-service orders, and potential liabilities in case of accidents.
Driving Time
Maximum Driving Limits
In Canada, a truck driver can drive a maximum of 13 hours in a day. Additionally, driving is only permitted within a 14-hour window after coming on duty. Once you hit your driving limit, you’re required to take sufficient off-duty time before driving again.
Exceptions and Special Circumstances
Under adverse weather conditions or emergencies, drivers may exceed these limits slightly, but such exceptions must be properly documented in a logbook or ELD (Electronic Logging Device).
On-Duty Time
Defining On-Duty Activities
On-duty time includes more than just driving. It also includes:
- Loading and unloading
- Vehicle inspections
- Fueling
- Waiting (if required by carrier)
- Paperwork and reporting
Calculating Your On-Duty Time
A driver may not be on duty for more than 14 hours in a single shift. This includes all activities related to work, even if the vehicle isn’t moving.
Off-Duty Time
Requirements for Off-Duty Hours
Drivers must have at least 10 hours off duty in a 24-hour period. Of those 10 hours, 8 hours must be consecutive, while the remaining 2 hours can be taken in smaller segments.
How to Make the Most of Your Off-Duty Time
Use off-duty time to rest, eat properly, stretch, or sleep. Taking full advantage of rest periods helps reduce fatigue and increases long-term productivity and alertness.
Shift/Workday Limit
Understanding Shift Lengths
A driver’s workday (also called a shift) is limited to 14 consecutive hours from the time they start working. Within this period, they can only drive for a maximum of 13 hours.
Planning Your Workday Effectively
Strategic trip planning is key. Factor in fuel stops, inspections, and rest breaks. Using route planning tools or fleet management apps can help avoid going over your limits.
Cycle Limits
Daily and Weekly Cycle Regulations
There are two primary driving cycles in Canada:
- Cycle 1: Maximum 70 hours of on-duty time in 7 days
- Cycle 2: Maximum 120 hours of on-duty time in 14 days
You must take at least 36 consecutive hours off before restarting Cycle 1 or 72 hours off before restarting Cycle 2.
Managing Your Driving Schedule
Stick to one cycle at a time, and reset as required. Many drivers use apps to monitor cumulative hours to avoid violations.
Split Sleeper Berth
What is Split Sleeper Berth?
Canada allows split sleeper berth time in two periods, such as 8+2 or 7+3 hours. This flexibility can help drivers take rest breaks without using up their total shift.
How to Utilize Split Sleeper Berth
To use this option legally, both off-duty periods must add up to at least 10 hours and neither period can be less than 2 hours. All breaks must be properly recorded.
Tips for Compliance
Staying Informed
Regulations may change, especially for cross-border drivers. Stay updated through Transport Canada or your provincial ministry of transportation.
Using Technology to Track Your Hours
Staying compliant doesn’t stop with tracking your hours—daily vehicle inspections are also a legal requirement in Canada. Don’t miss our complete Daily Truck Inspection Checklist for CDL Drivers to stay road-ready and avoid fines.
Use Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs) or mobile apps like BigRoad or KeepTruckin to simplify HOS tracking, avoid human error, and stay compliant.
Conclusion
Recap of Key Points
- Drive a maximum of 13 hours within a 14-hour window
- Take at least 10 hours off-duty per day
- Stick to either Cycle 1 or Cycle 2 and reset accordingly
- Use ELDs to accurately log time and avoid violations
Final Thoughts on Trucking Hours of Service in Canada
Understanding and complying with Canada’s trucking hours of service isn’t just about following the law—it’s about safety, well-being, and maintaining a professional standard in the industry. Make compliance a daily habit, not a last-minute task.
