Road Transport Regulation

Drivers’ Hours Rules in the UK

Drivers’ hours rules are designed to prevent fatigue and improve road safety. For most HGV drivers, this includes:

• Up to 9 hours driving per day, extendable to 10 hours twice a week
• A weekly limit of 56 hours
• A 90-hour limit over two weeks
• A 45-minute break after 4.5 hours of driving
• Daily and weekly rest requirements

Note: These rules apply primarily to HGV drivers. Drivers of smaller vehicles have different limits. Official GOV.UK guidance on drivers’ hours and tachographs

Breaching drivers’ hours regulations can result in fines, penalty points and action against both the driver and operator.

Tachograph Rules UK

Most HGV drivers must use a tachograph to record:

• Driving
• Other work
• Breaks and rest periods
• Periods of availability

It is your responsibility to:

• Use the correct tachograph mode
• Keep accurate records
• Carry required records
• Report faults promptly

Tampering with a tachograph or falsifying records is a serious offence and can affect your vocational licence. Most HGVs now use digital tachographs, which require careful management.

Working Time Directive for Drivers

In addition to drivers’ hours rules, many drivers are covered by the Road Transport[FH1]  Working Time Regulations.

These include:

• An average 48-hour working week (drivers can opt out in writing if required)
• Night work limits of 10 hours in any 24 hour period
• Record-keeping requirements

Working time includes driving and other duties but does not include breaks. Knowing the difference between driving time and working time is important to stay compliant.

Driver CPC Requirements

Professional drivers of HGVs or buses/coaches must hold a valid Driver CPC, which involves:

• Completing the initial qualification
• Undertaking 35 hours of training every five years
• Holding a valid Driver Qualification Card

Without a valid CPC where required, you cannot legally work as a professional driver.

GOV.UK guidance on Driver CPC

DVSA Roadside Checks and Enforcement

The DVSA carries out roadside inspections across the UK.

They may check:

• Tachograph records
• Drivers’ hours compliance
• Vehicle condition
• Licence and CPC status

Non-compliance can lead to fines, prohibitions or referral to the Traffic Commissioner.

Protecting your compliance record protects your career.