Key differences in engine data logging, edit tracking, and roadside transfer protocols.
AOBRD, or Automatic On-Board Recording Device, is an earlier version of the modern ELD that connects to a vehicle’s engine to record a commercial driver’s Hours of Service (HOS) under FMCSR 395.15. Both solutions plug into the vehicle’s ECM port to automatically record HOS data, but the main difference is that AOBRDs record and display much less data compared to ELDs and do not meet all requirements specified in the FMCSA ELD mandate.
AOBRDs were grandfathered by the ELD mandate until December 16, 2019. This allowed fleets already using compliant AOBRD systems installed prior to December 18, 2017 to continue using them during a 2-year transition window, after which 100% transition to certified ELDs became mandatory.
The two-year transition period allowed an exception for AOBRDs installed prior to December 18, 2017. As of December 16, 2019, this grandfather clause expired completely. Any motor carrier operating on public roads without an FMCSA-registered ELD is subject to Out-of-Service (OOS) driver violations and severe CSA score penalties.
The primary difference between ELDs and AOBRDs is that ELD devices track more information more accurately. For example, an ELD can identify information on a driver’s change in duty status, logging in and out, high-precision GPS location, and ECM data such as engine power status, vehicle motion (>5 mph auto-driving trigger), and system malfunctions. Additionally, ELDs readily display log edit history for review by DOT inspectors—whereas AOBRDs do not.
Beyond avoiding DOT Out-of-Service citations, switching to Wireless Links gives your fleet a complete fleet management solution. Combining DriverLog ELD with our AI-powered DashCams, engine diagnostics, and cold chain temperature monitoring transforms raw fleet data into actionable insights that cut fuel costs, eliminate violations, and improve safety scores.
Exact technical comparison as specified by FMCSA regulations.
| Technical Criteria | FMCSA Certified ELD (FMCSR 395.16) | Legacy AOBRD (FMCSR 395.15) |
|---|---|---|
| Unidentified Driving |
Mandatory Recording Records any unidentified driving and displays this data to the driver, fleet manager, and DOT officer. |
Not defined under 395.15 |
| Auto-Switch to Driving |
Automatic > 5 MPH Trigger Must automatically switch duty status to DRIVING once vehicle speed exceeds 5 mph. |
Not defined / Carrier custom threshold |
| Log Edits & Audit History |
Cryptographic Audit Log Auto-generated driving events cannot be edited. All edited entries are recorded and require driver annotation & re-certification. |
Records edits, but does not readily display original log history to DOT officers. |
| FMCSA Output File |
Web-Services / Email Transfer Standardized file output reported directly to FMCSA Web Services or encrypted email during roadside check. |
Not defined / Manual screen view / fax |
| Grandfather Clause Status | 100% Active Federal Standard | Expired Dec 16, 2019 |
Switching from legacy providers like Motive (KeepTruckin), Samsara, Omnitracs, or Geotab? Wireless Links will credit your fleet up to $500 per vehicle to cover early termination contract fees.
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