What is the maximum number of on-duty hours allowed for driving a commercial motor vehicle within a seven-day cycle?

The maximum number of on-duty hours allowed for driving a commercial motor vehicle within a seven-day cycle is indeed 70 hours. This regulation is part of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) hours of service regulations, which are designed to prevent fatigue and enhance safety on the roads.

Under these regulations, drivers are permitted to be on duty for up to 70 hours within any rolling eight-day period, which includes all time spent working, such as driving, loading, and maintaining the vehicle. Once a driver reaches this limit, they must take a break of at least 34 consecutive hours before they can start a new seven-day cycle.

Choosing 70 hours aligns with the standard practices and legal requirements governing commercial trucking, reflecting the necessity for proper rest and work limits to ensure the safety of both the drivers and the public.