FMCSA OK's Electronic Signatures

This is a very big deal, and good news for fleets running onboard computers and make extensive use of paperless processes.

This makes no difference to fleets running compliant electronic paperless logs-as this is directly addressed in 395.15/16.

This is important for fleets who use paperless Driver Vehicle Inspection Reports, which in LoadTrek are part of the driver's login process. This also means you can use electronic versions of other required documentation - other than direct correspondence with the agency where a signature is required.

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration has issued regulatory guidance that establishes parity between paper and electronic records and signatures, expanding interested parties’ ability to use electronic methods. FMCSA has received a number of requests from motor carriers and other interested parties asking permission to use electronic signatures in lieu of handwritten signatures on paper.

Any electronic document or signature is considered the legal equivalent of a paper document or signature if it is the functional equivalent with respect to integrity, accuracy and accessibility, and that anyone may use electronic methods so long as the electronic documents or signatures accurately reflect the information in the record and remain accessible in a form that can be viewed and/or reproduced accurately according to agency rules.

If the FMCSA asks for any documentation, you may use the electronic equivalent of a paper document as long as you can produce it in the timeframe requested - generally within 48 hours before an audit and immediately during an audit.

We have the Regulatory Guidance from the FMCSA contact us if you would like a copy, or have any questions on how this affects your fleet. We have DOT experts and safety/compliance consultants who can address your circumstance.