Canada Hours of Service Rules

If you drive a commercial vehicle in Canada, you must follow the federal Hours of Service (HOS) rules under the Commercial Vehicle Drivers Hours of Service Regulations. These rules set maximum driving times and minimum rest periods to prevent fatigue. This guide covers the key limits, how they differ from US rules, and practical steps to stay compliant.

Daily Driving and On-Duty Limits

In Canada, you cannot drive more than 13 hours in a day, and you cannot be on duty for more than 14 hours in a day. After 13 hours of driving, you must take at least 8 consecutive hours of off-duty time. After 14 hours on duty, you must also take 8 consecutive hours off.

Your day starts when you begin work, even if you are not driving. For example, if you load for 2 hours, you have 12 hours of driving left, but your on-duty clock continues to run.

Cycle Limits: 7-Day and 14-Day Options

You must also track your hours over a longer period, called a cycle. Canada offers two cycle options:

• Cycle 1 (7-day cycle): You can drive a maximum of 70 hours in 7 consecutive days. After reaching 70 hours, you must take at least 36 consecutive hours off.
• Cycle 2 (14-day cycle): You can drive a maximum of 120 hours in 14 consecutive days. After reaching 120 hours, you must take at least 72 consecutive hours off.

You must choose one cycle and stick with it. You cannot switch mid-cycle. Most drivers use Cycle 1 because it offers more rest, but Cycle 2 can be useful for long-haul operations.

Rest Breaks and Off-Duty Time

In addition to the 8-hour daily rest, you must take a 30-minute rest break before driving if you have been on duty for more than 8 hours. This break can be taken as off-duty time, not just sitting in the truck. For example, you can take a 30-minute break after 8 hours of on-duty time, then continue driving.

You also cannot drive after being on duty for 14 hours without taking 8 consecutive hours off. The 8-hour rest must be continuous and off-duty. You cannot split it into two 4-hour breaks.

Differences from US HOS Rules

If you also drive in the US, note these key differences:

• Daily driving limit: Canada allows 13 hours; US allows 11 hours.
• On-duty limit: Canada allows 14 hours; US allows 14 hours (same).
• Rest break: Canada requires a 30-minute break after 8 hours on duty; US requires a 30-minute break after 8 hours driving (not on-duty).
• Cycle limits: Canada has 70/7 or 120/14; US has 60/7 or 70/8.
• Sleeper berth: Canada allows splitting the 8-hour rest into two periods, but one must be at least 2 hours and the other at least 2 hours, totaling 8 hours. US allows 7/3 split.

Always check the rules for the province you are in, as some provinces have additional rules, but the federal regulations apply to most cross-border and interprovincial carriers.

Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs) in Canada

As of 2026, Canada requires ELDs for most commercial vehicles that are required to keep logs. The mandate applies to carriers operating in Canada, including US carriers. ELDs must meet Canadian technical standards (CSA C22.2 No. 273). If you use an ELD, ensure it is certified for Canada. If you are a small fleet, you may still use paper logs if you operate under the oilfield exemption, but most drivers must use ELDs.

Exemptions and Special Rules

Some drivers are exempt from parts of the HOS rules, including:

• Oilfield services: Drivers in oilfield operations may use a special 24-hour restart and have different cycle limits.
• Commercial vehicle dealers: Drivers delivering new vehicles may be exempt.
• Farm vehicles: Farm trucks used for primary agricultural work are exempt in some provinces.
• Emergency response: Drivers responding to emergencies are exempt.

Check with your province’s transportation ministry for specific exemptions that apply to your operation.

Practical Steps to Stay Compliant

1. Know your cycle: Decide whether you are on Cycle 1 or Cycle 2 and track your hours accordingly.
2. Use an ELD: If you don’t have one, invest in a certified ELD. Prices range from $20 to $50 per month per truck.
3. Plan your day: Before you start, estimate your driving and on-duty time. Build in the 30-minute break after 8 hours.
4. Take your rest: Never skip the 8-hour off-duty period. Fatigue is a leading cause of accidents.
5. Keep records: If you use paper logs, keep them for 6 months. ELDs automatically store data, but you must know how to transfer it during an inspection.

FAQ

Can I drive 13 hours straight without a break? No. You must take a 30-minute rest break before driving if you have been on duty for more than 8 hours. So, if you start at 6 AM, you must take a break by 2 PM, even if you haven’t driven 13 hours.

What happens if I exceed my hours? You can be fined and placed out of service. Fines vary by province, but can range from $200 to $2,000. Carriers can face higher fines and even criminal charges for causing a crash while fatigued.

Can I switch between Cycle 1 and Cycle 2? No, you must choose a cycle and stick with it for the entire cycle period. You can change cycles only after taking the required reset rest.

Do US ELDs work in Canada? Yes, if they meet Canadian standards. Most major ELD providers offer devices that are certified for both countries. Check with your provider to confirm.

The Bottom Line

Canada’s HOS rules are strict, but they are designed to keep you safe. Know your daily limits: 13 hours driving, 14 hours on duty, and 8 hours off. Choose your cycle, track your hours, and use an ELD to simplify compliance. If you cross the border, remember the differences from US rules. Stay compliant, stay safe, and keep your record clean.