Does Google Have a Mileage Tracker?

Google does not have a dedicated milage tracker specifically built to create mileage reports. However, due to Google's flexibility, you can always create your own or download a template from the internet and use them as free mileage logs. You can also make specific changes to fit the spreadsheet to your needs.

How Do I Keep Track of Business Miles?

The way the IRS recommends tracking your traveled miles involves using a mileage tracker log where you have to keep track of every mile you drive daily. You could use a business diary, a dedicated app, or a free spreadsheet tool like Google Sheets.

Do You Have to Provide Proof of Mileage on Taxes?

It is a misconception that you must record your odometer at the start and end of your trips of a business-only vehicle. However, you do have to record it as proof at the beginning and end of the year or when you start using a new vehicle for your business travels. If your car is for private and business use, it’s a good idea to track when you use it for your company.

Free Mileage Log Template for Google Sheets

Keeping track of your miles can save you a fortune when tax time rolls around. Whether you need to request reimbursement from an employer or claim a deduction on your tax return, accuracy is key.

Below, you can download our ready-to-go templates immediately, or read on to learn how to build your own mileage log from scratch.

Free Mileage Log Templates

Choose the version that fits your needs. Both are compatible with Google Sheets.

Download Template 1 (Simple)Download Template 2 (Advanced)

Note: Clicking these links will prompt you to save a copy to your Google Drive.

What Is a Mileage Log?

A mileage log is a record that tracks driving distances for work-related activities. It is the definitive proof used to validate tax deductions or employer reimbursements. Without a log, the IRS (or your boss) can deny your claim.

Why Use a Google Sheets Mileage Log?

The days of keeping a pen-and-paper notebook in your glovebox are over. Here is why switching to a digital spreadsheet is superior:

Cloud Backup: You can never lose your log. Even if you lose your phone, your data is safe in the cloud.
Instant Accessibility: You can update your log from your phone immediately after a trip, ensuring you don’t forget details.
Audit Protection: Handwritten logs are often illegible or incomplete. A clean, printed spreadsheet provides the concrete evidence the IRS requires during an audit.

IRS Requirements: What to Track

To ensure your log is “Audit-Proof,” the IRS requires specific data points for every single trip. If you leave these out, your deduction could be disqualified.

Requirement	Description
Date	The specific day the trip occurred.
Mileage	Total miles driven (Start/End odometer readings are recommended).
Destination	Where you went (City, Client Office, Job Site).
Business Purpose	Why you went there (e.g., “Client Meeting,” “Supply Run”).

What Driving is Deductible?

Not every mile counts. Here is the general rule of thumb:

Deductible: Driving from your office to a client, driving between job sites, or driving to buy supplies.
Not Deductible: Your commute. Driving from your home to your regular place of work is never deductible.

How to Create a Mileage Tracking Spreadsheet (DIY Guide)

If you prefer to build your own tracker to customize it fully, follow these steps.

Step 1: Set Up Your Columns

Open a new Google Sheet and create the following headers in Row 1:

Date
Trip Purpose
Start Odometer
End Odometer
Total Miles (Formula)
Reimbursement Rate (Optional)
Total Value (Optional)

Step 2: Add Visual Formatting

To make the sheet easier to read:

Highlight your header row.
Click the Bold icon (B).
Add a bottom border to separate headers from data.
(Optional) Use “Alternating Colors” in the Format menu to make rows easier to scan.

Step 3: The Formulas

Automation is the best part of a digital log. Here are the three formulas you need to make the sheet calculate itself.

1. Calculate Miles Per Trip

In your “Total Miles” column, you want to subtract the starting odometer from the ending odometer.

=F8-E8

(Assuming E8 is your Start Odometer and F8 is your End Odometer).

2. Calculate Total Miles Traveled (Year-to-Date)

To see how many miles you have driven all year, use the SUM function at the bottom or top of your sheet.

=SUM(G8:G100)

3. Calculate Reimbursement Value

If you are being paid a specific rate (e.g., $0.67 per mile), use this multiplication formula:

=G8*0.67

Replace 0.67 with your specific reimbursement rate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Google Sheets have a built-in mileage tracker?

No, Google Sheets does not come with a native mileage tracking template. You must either build one from scratch or download a third-party template like the ones provided above.

Do I need to record odometer readings?

While you can just record “15 miles,” the IRS strongly prefers odometer readings (Start: 10,000 / End: 10,015). This provides a continuous chain of evidence that proves the car was actually driven those distances.

How do I use this on my phone?

Simply download the Google Sheets app (iOS or Android). Log into your Google account, and you can open this template directly on your phone. Many users add a shortcut to the specific sheet on their home screen for quick access.

Conclusion

Consistent tracking is the only way to ensure you get the money you deserve. Whether you use our free template or build your own, start logging your trips today.

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