Tachographs & Driver Hours (HGV + Exemptions)
A Complete Guide for UK Transport Operators
Understanding and complying with tachograph and driver hours regulations is essential, even for operators with a Restricted Operator Licence. Whether you’re running a single vehicle or managing a small fleet, non-compliance can result in serious penalties, impoundments, or even loss of your licence. This section will break down what you need to know, including when tachographs are required, the rules on driver hours, and key exemptions that may apply to your business.
What Is a Tachograph?
A tachograph is a device fitted to HGVs that records:
Driving time
Breaks and rest periods
Vehicle speed and distance
Modern vehicles use digital tachographs, while older vehicles may still have analogue units. Operators must ensure all relevant data is downloaded, stored, and analysed to identify potential infringements.
Do Restricted Operators Need to Use a Tachograph?
Yes — in many cases. If you’re using a vehicle over 3.5 tonnes GVW for hire or reward or business use, tachograph laws likely apply. Even if you’re not transporting goods commercially, if your vehicle and operations fall under EU rules, you are required to comply.
Which Tachograph Rules Apply?
Even Restricted Licence holders must ensure drivers comply with EU Drivers’ Hours (or GB Domestic Rules) and Working Time Directive limits, where applicable.
EU Rules apply if you’re operating in the UK and EU with vehicles over 3.5 tonnes.
AETR Rules apply if you’re operating in non-EU European countries.
GB Domestic Rules may apply for certain local operations under exemption.
Most UK operators follow EU Tachograph Rules.
Driver Hours Rules Under EU Law
Key limits under EU rules include:
Driving time: max 9 hours per day (10 hours twice a week)
Weekly driving: max 56 hours
Fortnightly driving: max 90 hours over two weeks
Breaks: 45 minutes break after 4.5 hours of driving
Daily rest: 11 hours (can be reduced to 9 hours up to 3 times between weekly rests)
Weekly rest: 45 hours (can be reduced to 24 hours every other week with conditions)
Common Exemptions from Tachograph Rules
Not all vehicles require a tachograph. You may be exempt if:
You’re using a vehicle under 3.5 tonnes GVW (soon changing with new rules in some sectors)
The vehicle is used for non-commercial carriage of goods
The vehicle is used within 100 km of your base (under certain conditions)
The vehicle is used for agricultural, horticultural, or forestry purposes
The vehicle is undergoing road testing or repair
You’re transporting equipment or materials for your own use in limited circumstances
Each exemption has strict conditions. Misunderstanding these is a common cause of roadside enforcement action.
Your Responsibilities as a Restricted Licence Holder
Even as a restricted licence holder, you must:
Know when tachograph use is mandatory
Ensure drivers are trained on tachograph use and driver hour rules
Regularly download and analyse tachograph data
Keep records for at least 12 months
Take corrective action if infringements are identified
Maintain driver hour compliance logs and evidence of any exemptions claimed
Failing to do so risks enforcement action, which can affect your ability to operate legally.
Linked Blog Posts :
Downloadable Resources Available Soon :
✅ Tachograph Exemption Checker [PDF]
✅ EU Driver Hours Summary Poster [PDF]
✅ Tachograph Data Retention Checklist [PDF]
✅ Sample Driver Infringement Report [Excel]
Failing to do so risks enforcement action, which can affect your ability to operate legally.
Final Thoughts
Tachograph and driver hours compliance isn’t just a concern for national fleets — Restricted Operator Licence holders must also stay compliant. Understanding your obligations and exemptions is critical to protect your licence, avoid fines, and run your operation professionally.
Need help interpreting your tachograph data or setting up a compliant system?
👉 [Book a 1:1 compliance call with JS Transport Solutions]