How many hours can a CDL driver work. I was under the impression that a local driver could work 60 hours in 7 day period with a refresh after 34 hours off duty. Now we are being told we can legally work 70 hours in an eight day period and refresh after 34 hours off. Can we legally work five consective 14 hour days? I realize the company doesn't make the laws, I need some clarification to stay legal. What dictates the use of the 60/7 or 70/8 rules? At other companies I've worked for you worked 60 hours max. We are very busy and understaffed in every job catagory, I enjoy working for NEMF but I want to be safe and legal.