Are there exceptions to the hours-of-service rules?

Yes, there are both exceptions to certain portions of the rules as well as exemptions from all the rules. For example, agricultural operations are entirely exempt from 49 CFR Part 395 during the planting and harvesting season in each state, as determined by the state, and drivers of utility service vehicles are also exempt from Part 395.

As another example, vehicles used in oil-field operations, ground water well-drilling operations, and those transporting construction materials and equipment enjoy a 24-hour restart provision. However, except for drivers of vehicles that are specially constructed to service oil wells, these drivers are required to comply with the 10-hour off-duty and 11-hour driving limitations, as well as the prohibition on driving after the 14^th hour after coming on duty. Drivers of specially constructed vehicles that service oil wells are not required to log wait time as on-duty time [see 395.1(d)(2)].