Do You Need an ELD for IFTA? (The Exemption Loophole)
Driving a pre-2000 truck? You might be exempt from ELDs, but you are NOT exempt from IFTA. Here is how to handle taxes without a computer in your engine.
The Glider Kit Confusion
Many drivers of older trucks (pre-2000 engines) or Glider Kits enjoy the freedom of being exempt from the ELD (Electronic Logging Device) mandate. However, this creates confusion about fuel taxes.
ELD vs. IFTA
These are two separate government requirements:
- FMCSA (Safety): Requires ELDs for Hours of Service. You might be exempt.
- IFTA (Tax): Requires fuel tax reporting for qualified vehicles. You are NEVER exempt if you cross state lines in a commercial vehicle.
The Challenge for Exempt Drivers
If you don't have an ELD, you don't have an automated GPS track of your miles. This means you must keep a manual mileage log (odometer readings at state lines). Failing to do so is an automatic audit failure.
The "Spy in the Cab" Alternative
You want digital records, but you don't want a hardwired device reading your engine data. You need a solution that runs on your phone, on your terms.
Digital Logs, No Hardware: FastIFTA is the perfect solution for the ELD-exempt driver. Use our app to log your miles manually or via GPS on your phone. Get the accuracy of a digital log without installing a "spy" in your dashboard.