USA: CVSA Calls for Maximum Time Limit on Truck Drivers’ Use of Personal Conveyance

Source: CVSA

Washington, August 5, 2025 — The Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA) has urged U.S. lawmakers to impose stricter limits on the use of “personal conveyance” by commercial drivers, citing a significant increase in abuse of the exemption.

In public comments submitted to the U.S. Senate on July 29, 2025, during the hearing “Shifting Gears: Issues Impacting the Trucking and Commercial Bus Industries in the U.S.”, the CVSA raised several regulatory concerns, including the need for universal electronic vehicle identifiers, certified ELD standards, and proper oversight of automated trucks.

A key recommendation from CVSA: impose a maximum time limit on the personal conveyance exemption to reduce driver fatigue. Currently, drivers can operate a loaded or unloaded commercial motor vehicle (CMV) under the “off-duty” designation if the purpose is personal.

“Drivers are able to drive hundreds of miles over several hours under personal conveyance, increasing the risk of fatigue,” the CVSA warned.

Roadside inspectors have reported a rise in misuse, such as:

• Driving up to 10 hours between deliveries;

• Using personal conveyance for over two hours to “look for parking” despite available spots;

• Making up for loading dock delays;

• Switching to personal conveyance just before violating 11- or 14-hour rules.

CVSA data from 2023 showed nearly 40% of personal conveyance use was improper. False log violations have also surged in ranking — from the 7th most common driver violation in 2019 to 3rd place in 2021–2023. Specific violations for “false logs – personal conveyance” jumped from 60th in 2021 to 27th in 2024.

“Using personal conveyance to extend driving time increases fatigue and endangers others. A time limit is a necessary step toward mitigating fatigue-related risks on the road,” concluded the CVSA.