A driver’s daily log is a paper record commercial drivers use to track their hours-of-service and trip details. It typically includes spaces for:

• Date, driver, and carrier info
• Vehicle and trailer numbers
• Start/end locations and odometer
• Duty status times (off-duty, sleeper, driving, on-duty)
• Miles driven and shipment/manifest numbers
• Vehicle inspection (DVIR) sections, if included
• 7- and 8-day recap to help track rolling totals
• Driver signature

These logs can support roadside inspections, internal recordkeeping, and compliance with applicable hours-of-service rules. Even drivers using electronic logging devices sometimes carry paper log books as an ELD backup. Specific layouts vary by book, so it’s helpful to follow the printed instructions on the form you’re using.

Most paper log books follow a similar flow. This general approach can help:

1. Complete the header: date, driver and carrier, vehicle/trailer numbers, and locations.
2. Log start details: start time and odometer reading.
3. Record duty status changes: mark times for off-duty, sleeper, driving, and on-duty not driving as your day progresses.
4. Add trip details: miles driven and shipping/manifest numbers if your form includes them.
5. Do the DVIR: complete the inspection section when required by your operation.
6. Recap and sign: total hours by status, use the 7/8-day recap if provided, and sign the form.
7. Handle copies: with 2‑ply carbonless logs, submit/store the copy as your policy requires.

Formats vary, so follow the instructions printed on your book and your company’s procedures.

Generally, a CDL driver completes a daily log for each day they operate a commercial motor vehicle that’s subject to hours‑of‑service tracking. Depending on your operation, that can mean one of the following:

• Standard daily logs: used to record duty statuses and trip details.
• Exemption logs: some short‑haul operations use simplified “exemption” log books designed for those routes.
• ELD backup logs: drivers using electronic logging devices often keep paper logs as a contingency during outages or special situations.

Regulatory requirements can change, and company policies vary. It’s a good idea to follow current hours‑of‑service rules and the procedures your fleet provides when deciding which log to complete on a given day.

Many drivers find it helpful to update the log as the day unfolds, so times and activities stay accurate. A common approach is to record entries:

• At the start of shift: complete the header and mark on‑duty time.
• When you begin driving: note the change to driving status and time.
• During stops: fuel, loading/unloading, inspections, or breaks (on‑duty or off‑duty).
• For longer breaks/rest: off‑duty or sleeper berth entries.
• End of day: total hours, use the recap if provided, complete DVIR if required by your operation, and sign.

Keeping entries legible and timely can make reviews and inspections smoother, but the exact timing should follow your company’s procedures and applicable regulations.

Pick a log book that matches your route type and recordkeeping needs. Consider:

• Use case: standard daily logs, short‑haul exemption logs, or ELD backup logs.
• Inspection needs: books with detailed or simplified DVIR sections.
• Recap format: 7‑day and/or 8‑day recap, or no recap versions.
• Size and layout: compact (around 5.5" x 8.5") vs. larger formats for extra writing space.
• Copies: 2‑ply carbonless sets help you retain and submit copies.
• Quantity and sets: how many forms per book and how many books per pack.
• Extras: tear‑out pages, trip or shipment record sections, and storage solutions to keep forms protected.

Align features with your fleet’s policies and the rules that apply to your operation.