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Tachograph Guide for HGV Drivers (UK & EU) – Stay Legal, Stay Safe

Whether you’re new to the industry or just need a refresher, here’s a straightforward guide to using your tachograph properly and staying within the law.

📟 What is a Tachograph?

A tachograph records your driving time, breaks, rest periods, and other work. Most HGVs use digital tachographs with a driver card.

🪪 Driver Card Basics

  • Insert your card before you start driving
  • Never use someone else’s card
  • Renew every 5 years
  • Report loss or theft immediately

⚙️ Tachograph Modes (Know These!)

  • 🚗 Driving – recorded automatically
  • 🔨 Other Work – loading, unloading, paperwork
  • ⏳Period of Availability – waiting time
  • 🛏️ Rest/Break – breaks and rest periods

👉 Always select the correct mode when not driving.

⏱️ Drivers’ Hours Rules (Quick Overview)

Daily Driving

  • 9 hours (can extend to 10 hours twice a week)

Weekly Driving

  • 56 hours max
  • 90 hours over 2 weeks

Breaks

  • 45 minutes after 4.5 hours driving
  • Can split into 15 + 30 minutes

Daily Rest

  • 11 hours (can reduce to 9 hours, max 3 times)

Weekly Rest

  • 45 hours (can reduce to 24 with compensation)

🧾 Manual Entries (Don’t Forget!)

You must add manual entries if:

  • You worked without your card inserted
  • You used another vehicle
  • You had rest away from the vehicle

👉 Always complete these at the start of your shift.

🖨️ Printouts & Records

  • Carry your driver card at all times
  • Be ready to produce printouts at roadside checks
  • Keep records for the current day + previous 28 days
  • Sign printouts if required

⚠️ Common Mistakes

  • Forgetting to insert your card
  • Incorrect mode selection
  • Missing manual entries
  • Skipping breaks
  • Exceeding driving limits

🚛 Top Tips

  • Keep an eye on your 4.5-hour driving limit
  • Check your mode after every stop
  • Carry spare printer rolls
  • Plan parking and breaks in advance

📌 Final Word

Tachographs aren’t just about avoiding fines—they’re about keeping you and everyone else on the road safe. Stay sharp, stay compliant, and keep it between the lines.