HOS Record Gap Checker

A gap checker for finding missing HOS logs, ELD exports, support documents, and annotations before an audit.

Who this is for
Safety managers, ELD admins, Drivers
Written by
Dale Whitfield
Reviewed by
DOT Audit Prep Editorial Team
Last reviewed
2026-05-12
Source confidence
High

Quick checklist

  • Run driver logs for the requested date range.
  • Look for missing certifications.
  • Review unassigned driving.
  • Check edits and annotations.
  • Collect support documents for sampled dates.

Why this matters

HOS gaps are easier to fix while the trip is still fresh. Before an audit, the goal is to identify what is missing and what explanation is already documented in the system.

What to prepare

Area Records to gather
Gap checks
  • Missing log day
  • Uncertified log
  • Unassigned driving not reviewed
  • Edit without clear note
  • Missing support document
Review notes
  • Driver contacted
  • Annotation added when appropriate
  • Support document found
  • Exception documented
  • Manager review complete

Common gaps

  • Unassigned driving remains in the admin queue.
  • Drivers forget to certify days with no driving.
  • Edits have vague notes like fixed log.
  • Short-haul exceptions are assumed but not documented.

Before / During / After audit

Before

  • Run exception reports.
  • Review the most recent month first.
  • Pull support documents for problem dates.

During

  • Use ELD records as the primary source.
  • Keep support documents available by date.

After

  • Schedule weekly HOS reviews.
  • Train drivers on certifications and annotations.
  • Document recurring coaching.

Download

Use the print button to create a paper or PDF copy from your browser. No account or upload is needed.

Sources