FMCSA finalizes two paperwork rollbacks: in-cab ELD manual and inspection-report returns

FMCSA filed two deregulatory final rules with the Federal Register on June 18, 2026 (published June 22). Both take effect July 22, 2026. These are final rules, not proposals — each follows a proposal FMCSA put out on May 30, 2025.

ELD operator's manual. The rule removes 49 CFR 395.22(h)(1), the requirement that a copy of the ELD user's manual be kept in the truck. FMCSA's reasoning, in its own words: "there is no readily apparent benefit to continuing to require that the user's manual be in the CMV," since manuals are available through the agency's registered-ELD list. The rest of the in-cab kit stays: the data-transfer instruction sheet, the malfunction instruction sheet, and at least 8 days of blank paper logs.

Roadside inspection reports. Today 49 CFR 396.9(d) requires a carrier to sign a completed roadside inspection form and return it to the issuing state agency. The revised rule requires the return only "if requested by the issuing State agency," acting on a petition from CVSA. FMCSA noted that "not all issuing State agencies require the return of these reports." What does not change: the carrier must still correct the violations noted on the form, certify the repairs, and keep a copy at its principal place of business (or where the vehicle is housed) for 12 months from the inspection date.

A third rule filed the same day removes the CDL holder's duty to self-report convictions to their home state; that one is covered separately.