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.