Question:
Is it legally allowed to be used in everyday trucking now to replace your standard DOT "paper" logs? I seen this topic in the Trucking 101 section heres the link DDL in Trucking 101 last I ever heard it wasn't legal to use or replace the log books? Any insight or is anyone using it?
Hey, if life throws you a curve ball, try and take a swing at it. Who knows what might happen

Answer:
Did you read the last reply to the thread pointed out in the URL posted?
trkrhelp
Senior Member posted September 07, 2003 08:16 Approved Log Programs
Just as a point of interest the DOT has not "approved" any log checking program. There are a number of them available, all of which meet the DOT rules concerning what is required for a log.
What has been approved is the concept of keeping your logs in your computer. This was recently approved - be sure to follow the rules. You must have a printer in your truck and be able to print out the current day if asked to do so and you must have a printed and signed copy of the the previous 7 days available for inspection.
John Ewing
The Truckers Helper
As of now, I'm just beginning to use the "Trucker's Helper" program. Once I am completely familiar with it, I'll use it to keep track of my daily logs instead of using loose leaf logs as I do now.
(b)(4) The driver shall have in his/her possession records of duty status for the previous 7 consecutive days available for inspection while on duty. These records shall consist of information stored in and retrievable from the automatic on-board recording device, handwitten records, computer generated records, or any combination thereof.
(b)(5) All hard copies of the driver's record of duty status must be signed by the driver. The driver's signature certifies that the information contained thereon is true and correct.
This can be found at.....
FMCSA- § 395.15 Automatic on-board recording devices.
I also found this while searching for something else.
Question 28: May a driver use a computer to generate his or her record of duty status (log book) and then manually sign the computer printouts in lieu of handwritten logs?
Guidance: A driver may use a computer to generate the graph grid and entries for the record of duty status or log book, provided the computer-generated output includes the minimum information required by §395.8 and is formatted in accordance with the rules. In addition, the driver must:
1. Be capable of printing the record of duty status for the current 24-hour period at the request of an enforcement officer.
2. Print the record of duty status at the end of each 24-hour period, and sign it in his or her handwriting to certify that all entries required by this section are true and correct.
3. Maintain a copy of printed and signed records of duty status for the previous 7 consecutive days and make it available for inspection at the request of an enforcement officer.
http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/rulesregs/fmcsr/regs/interp395.8.htm
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[This message was edited by Hoss on October 25, 2003 at 4:37.]