Exemption Of Electronic Logging Devices For RV Transportation In Canada Approved By Transport Canada

The Canadian Recreational Vehicle Association (CRVA) has announced that the their electronic logging device exemption request was approved by Transport Canada. This regulation took effect October 19th, 2023.

This exemption applies to a 2019 regulation mandating electronic logging devices for commercial carriers in Canada, including companies engaged in the “Drive-Away/Tow-Away” industry for motorhome and towable RV deliveries from US and Canadian manufacturers to RV retailers located in Canada. After hearing the concerns of industry stakeholders, the Canadian Recreational Vehicle Association, with the support of the RVDA of Canada and the RV Industry Association, submitted an exemption request in January 2022.

The RV Industry Association’s Government Affairs team secured a similar exemption for US towaway drivers in 2015.  

The approved exemption will immediately have a positive impact on the Canadian RV Industry. It will be easier for US manufacturers and Canadian RV retailers to source commercial vehicle drivers, who had demonstrated reluctance to enter Canada under the Electronic Logging Device (ELD) Mandate that took effect January 1st.

This critical decision by Transport Canada means that the Canadian Recreational Vehicle Association’s members and stakeholders again have much needed flexibility and efficiency essential for the unique demands of the RV transportation industry.

The Canadian Recreational Vehicle Association will continue to work closely with Transport Canada to ensure that operators align with federal regulations while making the most of this electronic logging device exemption.

Please note there are some pre-conditions that RV delivery companies must undertake in order to be compliant. Prior to the commencement of operations under this exemption, the motor carrier shall:

• Notify in writing the federal director of its intention to operate under this exemption and the name of the province(s) or territory(ies) where it intends to operate;
• Provide to the federal director the names of drivers who will operate the commercial vehicles and their corresponding driver license numbers and province or territory of issuance; and
• Obtain and review a driver's abstract or if the motor carrier is U.S.-based, a Motor Vehicle Record (MVR) for each driver that is expected to operate under this exemption.

The official release and list of requirements are below: 

• English: Exemptions under section 16. of the Motor Vehicle Transport Act (canada.ca)
• French: Exemptions sous la section 16. de la Loi sur les Transports Routiers (canada.ca)