Global position systems (GPS)

Scope

All electronic logging devices must provide GPS location updates at specified intervals and within specified distances.

Regulatory citations

• 49 CFR 395.26 — ELD data automatically recorded
• 49 CFR 395 Subpart B, Appendix A — Functional Specifications for All Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs)

Key definitions

• Global positioning system (GPS): A satellite-based navigation system used to provide the exact location, time, and velocity of a vehicle.

Summary of requirements

Global positioning systems (GPS) use a “constellation,” or group, of satellites to determine a precise location on earth. The GPS unit receives radio signals from three or more satellites that are reporting their exact position. The GPS unit then uses this information to calculate its exact location.

Once the location is calculated the GPS unit will either display the position to the user or send the information to a specified receiver. The location can be displayed as either a longitude and latitude, or a location within a city/state (or distance and direction from the nearest city/state).

Typical systems used to communicate the location data in civilian applications are satellite and cell-based data communication systems. In cab routing and electronic logging solutions rely heavily on the provided accurate location data.

Per 395.26, electronic logging devices must record the unit location updates at least once per hour when in motion. Also, the accuracy of the GPS unit must be within 1 mile when the driver is on-duty and within 10 miles when the driver is using personal conveyance. The ELD technical specifications are found in Appendix A to Subpart B of Part 395.