Free Mileage Log Template
Mileage log templates
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For tax mileage records — check local rules before claiming deductions.
Written by Muneeb Rana · Last updated 21 October 2026
Quick answer: A mileage log template records each business trip: date, destination, business purpose, starting and ending odometer, and miles driven, plus yearly totals. IRS Publication 463 says you need adequate records made at or near the time of the trip. Download the free template below, or log trips manually in CarO and export them.
TL;DR
- Log date, destination, purpose and miles for each business trip.
- Record odometer readings at the start and end of the year.
- Keep records made at or near the time, not reconstructed later.
This free mileage log template helps you keep the records the IRS (and HMRC in the UK) expects if you claim car expenses for business, gig work, charity or medical travel. It comes as a printable PDF, a CSV and a Google Sheets copy.
How to use the mileage log template
- Download the format you prefer.
- Write the odometer reading on 1 January (or the day you start using the car for business).
- For each business trip, record the date, destination, business purpose, start and end odometer and miles.
- Total business miles each month.
- At year end, record the final odometer so you can show total vs business miles.
How the mileage log template works
Columns:
| Date | Destination | Business purpose | Start odometer | End odometer | Miles | Tolls/parking |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 03 Feb 2026 | Client office, Dayton | Quarterly review | 31,240 | 31,302 | 62 | $6.00 |
miles = end_odometer - start_odometer
business_share = business_miles / total_miles_for_year
Worked example
In 2026 you drive 14,000 miles in total, 5,200 for business, all in the first half. At the IRS business rate for that period (72.5 cents), the standard mileage deduction would be 5,200 × $0.725 = $3,770. Use the mileage reimbursement calculator for split-period rates.
What the IRS asks for
IRS Publication 463 explains that you should keep adequate records, such as a log, showing the amount (mileage), time (date), place (destination) and business purpose of each use, made at or near the time. Commuting between home and a regular workplace generally isn't deductible. Read the mileage log for taxes guide and the IRS mileage rate guide.
GPS apps vs manual logs
Apps that log trips automatically by GPS, like MileIQ, Everlance or Stride, can save time for heavy business drivers. CarO lets you log trips and routes manually, with frequent places for quick entry; it doesn't track trips automatically. See our honest mileage tracker apps comparison.
For rideshare and delivery drivers
Platform mileage reports may not include miles driven between trips. See Uber driver expenses and apps for rideshare drivers.
Download CarO free on the App Store or Google Play. Free with ads; optional in-app purchases.
Sources
- IRS Publication 463: Travel, Gift, and Car Expenses: www.irs.gov (accessed 21 October 2026)
- IRS Topic 510: Business use of car: www.irs.gov (accessed 21 October 2026)
- IRS: Standard mileage rates: www.irs.gov (accessed 21 October 2026)
- GOV.UK: Travel, mileage and fuel rates and allowances: www.gov.uk (accessed 21 October 2026)
Disclaimer: CarO and this website give general car-care information, not professional advice. Maintenance intervals and specifications vary by vehicle, so always follow your owner's manual and a qualified mechanic. Mileage and cost figures are estimates; check local tax rules before using any log for deductions.
FAQ
What should a mileage log include for the IRS?
For each business trip: the date, destination, business purpose and miles. Also keep total miles for the year, from odometer readings at the start and end.
Does a mileage log have to be written at the time?
The IRS expects records made at or near the time of the trip. Reconstructed logs carry less weight.
Can I use a spreadsheet for my mileage log?
Yes, a spreadsheet or app is fine as long as it captures the required details and is kept up to date.
Is commuting mileage deductible?
Generally no. Driving between home and your regular workplace is commuting. See IRS Publication 463 for exceptions.
Can CarO track my mileage automatically?
No. CarO logs trips and routes you enter manually. If you need automatic GPS logging, a dedicated mileage tracker app is better.