Sleep and fatigue: staying sharp behind the wheel

Updated October 2026

Fatigue is a major safety risk. Hours-of-service rules help, but quality sleep is up to you.

Better sleep in the cab

Keep a regular sleep schedule when you can, block light and noise, and limit caffeine late in your shift.

Yawning, heavy eyelids, drifting and missing exits mean it's time to stop and rest. Coffee doesn't replace sleep.

General information, not medical advice. Your certified medical examiner decides whether you qualify and for how long.