Taking Time Off as a CDL Driver
Taking Time Off as a CDL Driver
An important part of being a CDL driver is maintaing a work-life balance. Long hours on the road can take a toll. That is why many experienced drivers will tell you that taking time to recharge is one of the keys to staying safe, healthy, and successful over a long trucking career. Here is what you can expect and steps you can take when taking time off during the year as a CDL driver.
Understand Hours-of-Service Rules
Driving a commercial motor vehicle requires constant focus which can lead to fatigue. Therefore, taking your required rest isn't just about following the law—it's about protecting yourself, your CDL, and everyone sharing the road with you. For most property-carrying CDL drivers, FMCSA regulations generally include:
* Up to 11 hours of driving after 10 consecutive hours off duty
* A 14-hour on-duty window
* A 30-minute break after 8 cumulative hours of driving
* A 60/70-hour limit over 7 or 8 consecutive days, depending on carrier operations
* An optional 34-hour restart to reset the 60/70-hour calculation
These rules establish minimum legal rest periods, however, it’s important to also take additional rest when needed. A good rule of thumb: Don't Wait Until You're Exhausted. FMCSA regulations prohibit operating a commercial vehicle while ill or fatigued. If you're too tired to drive safely, stop and rest—even if you still have available hours. Some signs to look out for are: frequent yawning, difficulty focusing, missing road signs, drifting within your lane, and trouble remembering the last few miles driven.
The 34-Hour Restart Can Be Your Friend
Many long-haul drivers use the FMCSA's optional 34-hour restart provision. This provision allows you to take 34 consecutive hours completely off duty once every 7 days. If you choose to do so, you can restart your weekly 60/70-hour calculation for the next week. These 34 hours can give you a chance to recharge and have better schedule management.
For a good work-life balance, during your restart, make it a priority to exercise for your physical and mental health, take care of medical appointments, engage in hobbies and recreation, catch up on quality sleep, and spend time with family and friends. Many drivers find that maintaining relationships and interests outside of trucking helps them stay happier and more focused behind the wheel. Treat this down time as recovery time and time to boost energy levels with physical activity.
How Much Time Off Can CDL Drivers Take?
One advantage of trucking is that there is no single nationwide limit on vacation time. Time off is generally determined by your employer. The key is to give your carrier company as much notice as possible. Many carriers request several weeks' notice for vacations. Working as a team with your carrier and good planning increases the likelihood of getting the time off you want.
Company Drivers - Most company drivers receive vacation benefits based on seniority. Typical examples include: 1 week after the first year, 2 weeks after several years, and 3 or more weeks for long-term employees. Some carriers also offer personal days, unpaid leave, and flexible home-time schedules.
Regional and Local Drivers - Local and regional drivers often have more predictable schedules and may be home daily or weekly. Because they are easier to replace temporarily, these drivers may find it simpler to schedule family vacations, medical procedures, and extended weekends. Policies vary by carrier.
Long-Haul (OTR) Drivers - Many over-the-road drivers stay out for: 2-4 weeks at a time, 4-8 weeks at a time, or longer periods if desired. A common home-time policy is: one day off for every week worked or one week off after several weeks on the road. However, many companies offer more flexible arrangements today because driver retention is a major concern.
Owner-operators - While they may have complete control over their schedule, they will still need to pay insurance, truck payments, permits, registrations, and business expenses while gone. Therefore, even owner-operators often budget for planned downtime throughout the year.
Seasonal Drivers - Some experienced CDL drivers intentionally work part of the year and take extended periods off. This is much easier to accomplish when you own your equipment outright and have minimal debt.
Extended Periods of Time Off
Some carriers may allow a 30-day leave of absence, seasonal time off, or extended unpaid leave. Others may require drivers to resign and reapply later. If you're planning to take several months off, discuss it with your carrier before making plans. Questions to ask include: Will my position still be available? Will I keep my seniority? Will benefits continue? Will I need refresher training before returning?
Regardless of your driving position, while away, still schedule any CDL medical examinations that may come due, keep your CDL valid and current, maintain any required endorsements, complete required company training before returning, and verify that insurance and benefits won't be affected. This will help you have a smooth transition once you've returned to work.
At CDL Direct, we don’t just prepare you to pass the exam. Our course is designed to prepare you for real-world situations—inspections, roadside stops, accidents, and the decisions and driving techniques that protect your livelihood.