Tachographs track driving time, speed, and distance. There are two types—analogue and digital—with digital tachographs mandatory for all commercial vehicles registered after 1 May 2006 (unless exempt). These devices ensure drivers and employers comply with regulations on driving hours.
Digital tachographs store data securely in the vehicle unit (VU) and the driver’s smart card, with advanced security features to prevent tampering.
Exemptions
Certain vehicles are exempt, including:
- Vehicles limited to speeds under 40 km/h
- Emergency and breakdown services within 100 km of base
- Non-commercial vehicles under 7.5 tonnes
For more details, visit the gov.uk website.
Digital Tachographs
The VU has a display, printer, controls, and two card slots. It stores data for around 365 days, displaying information in real-time. Since April 2015, the legal limit for downloading vehicle data has increased to 90 days. The system warns drivers when 4¼ hours of driving without a break has occurred and again at 4½ hours.
Driver Responsibilities
Drivers must use the tachograph every day to record driving time, work periods, availability, and breaks. Records for the current day and the last 28 days must be carried and presented to enforcement officers if requested. Tachograph records should be submitted to your Quicktemp office or client within 30 days.
Using Digital Tachographs
- Ensure the tachograph is calibrated
- Carry enough print rolls and check the mode switch is correctly set
- Report faults to the operator and make manual entries if the card is lost, damaged, or malfunctioning
- Keep printouts of driving activities and hand them to the operator
Driver Cards
Drivers need a valid driver card, issued by the DVLA, to operate digital tachographs. Cards are valid for five years and store up to 28 days of data, including vehicle usage, duty periods, and roadside checks.
Lost, Damaged, or Stolen Cards
If a card is lost, stolen, or malfunctioning, notify the DVLA immediately and apply for a replacement within seven days. You can continue driving for up to 15 days using manual entries, but must submit printouts at the start and end of each journey. The printouts must include the driver’s name and driving licence number.
Log On/Off Procedures
Log On
- Insert the driver card with the chip facing up.
- Follow on-screen instructions for manual entries if required.
- Select your country, and the card pictogram will confirm the logon.
Log Off
- Press the eject button and select your country.
- The system will ask if you need a printout.
- The driver card is then released.
Analogue Tachographs
For analogue tachographs, drivers must ensure the clock is set to the correct UK local time before driving. Fill out the chart completely with start/finish locations, dates, and odometer readings. Carry charts for the current day and the previous 28 days.
What Drivers Must Carry
Drivers must always carry
- Tachograph Driver Card
- Driver Qualification Card (CPC)
- 28 days of work and rest history
- Driving Licence
- Sufficient print rolls for the tachograph
- Defect reports for the vehicle
If the tachograph is faulty or records are inaccurate, drivers must make handwritten entries on the printout.
Disclaimer
This information has been compiled using resources from GOV.UK and RoSPA. While every effort has been made to ensure its accuracy, Quicktemp and its associated entities accept no responsibility for any errors or omissions.
