Guides / ELD Benefits, Providers, and FAQs / ELD FAQs / What are the benefits of an ELD vs. AOBRD?

What are the benefits of an ELD vs. AOBRD?

The rules surrounding ELDs are more detailed than automatic on-board recording devices (AOBRDs) when it comes to how the device needs to comply with various driving events and situations.

To illustrate a big difference, ELDs automatically switch a driver’s duty status to “On-Duty, Not Driving” when the vehicle isn’t in motion for more than six consecutive minutes. AOBRDs, on the other hand, don’t do this and aren’t required to change a driver’s duty status when the vehicle isn’t moving. AOBRDs can: 

  • Record any unidentified trips
  • Display the data to the driver, fleet manager, and DOT officer

ELDs are a lot more detailed and accurate in terms of how much data can be recorded and relayed back to the driver and fleet manager.

As of December, 2019, AOBRDS have been deemed non-compliant and the ELD mandate requires all non-exempt drivers to install compliant FMCSA-registered ELDs.