Why It’s Illegal to Operate Student Transportation Without Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs)
When it comes to student transportation, safety isn’t optional—it’s the law. Yet many small and midsize transportation providers don't realize that operating vehicles without Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs) could put them out of compliance—and expose schools to major legal and financial risks.
At Shuttlebee, we’re committed to helping schools and transportation providers navigate regulations, stay compliant, and ultimately keep students safer. Here’s what you need to know about ELDs and why they matter.
What is an Electronic Logging Device (ELD)?
An Electronic Logging Device (or ELD) is hardware that connects to a vehicle’s engine to automatically record driving time, vehicle movement, engine hours, miles driven, and driver duty status.
The goal: to increase accountability for anyone operating commercial vehicles, provide transportation providers insights into the quality of their driver's service and to prevent driver fatigue.
ELDs Are Required Under Federal Law
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) mandates that most commercial motor vehicles must be equipped with ELDs to track Hours of Service (HOS).
This requirement applies broadly—including student transportation providers operating certain types of vehicles.
If your transportation providers are operating vehicles:
Weighing over 10,001 pounds, or Designed to transport more than 8 passengers for compensation, then they must comply with ELD rules unless they qualify for specific exemptions (which are rare).
Operating without ELDs can result in serious penalties: citations, fines, disqualification from service, and potential legal liability if an accident occurs.
Why Schools Should Care
When a school contracts with a transportation provider that ignores ELD compliance, it isn’t just the provider at risk—it’s the school’s reputation, liability exposure, and duty of care that are also on the line.
Without ELD data:
You can’t verify driver hours or detect fatigue risks.
You can't defend your decision-making if incidents occur.
You could face lawsuits for negligence if the provider is found noncompliant.
At Shuttlebee, we require the transportation providers in our network to use safety-compliant technology, including ELDs paired with vehicle telematics.
It’s not just about checking a regulatory box—it’s about ensuring every student’s ride is as safe as possible.
How Shuttlebee Helps Schools Stay Protected
✅ Vetted Providers: We verify that every transportation provider we work with meets FMCSA standards, including ELD compliance.
✅ Real-Time Monitoring: Our Dispatch Program uses integrated telematics to monitor driving behavior, incidents, and compliance—so you have a complete safety profile for every provider.
✅ Insurance Alignment: We connect safe providers to affordable commercial auto insurance, further reinforcing incentives for strong operational practices.
Final Thought
Safety and compliance aren't optional—they're essential.
At Shuttlebee, we help schools navigate these complexities with vetted partners, smart oversight, and compliance-first solutions.
If you're evaluating transportation options for the next school year, make sure ELD compliance is at the top of your checklist—and know that with Shuttlebee, it already is.
