Driving licence and tachograph printout
If you are a Heavy Goods Vehicle (HGV) driver in the UK, it is important to be aware of driving hours regulations. Observing these rules is essential for road safety, preventing fatigue-related accidents, and making sure you comply with the law. Here is your guide to HGV driving hours in the UK.
Daily HGV Driving Hours
As an HGV driver, the maximum daily driving time allowed is 9 hours. This can be extended to 10 hours twice a week.
After driving for 4.5 hours, you must take a break of at least 45 minutes. This can be divided into two breaks: a 15-minute break followed by a 30-minute break.
Daily Duty Limit
The daily duty limit refers to the total time you can spend on both driving and other work-related tasks. You must not be on duty for more than 11 hours in any working day.
Weekly Driving Limits
In addition to the daily limits, there are also weekly and fortnightly driving limits. When you add up your hours for a week, they should total a maximum of 56 hours. If you add up your hours across any two consecutive weeks, it should be no more than 90 hours.
Breaks and Rest Periods
Taking regular breaks and rest periods is crucial for the safety of you and those travelling around you.
- If you are working for more than 6 hours, you must take a break of at least 30 minutes. This can be taken in one go or divided into two 15-minute breaks.
- You must have a daily rest period of at least 11 hours. You can reduce this to 9 hours, but only up to three times in a week.
- You must take a weekly rest period of at least 45 hours. This can be reduced to 24 hours, but you would need to add the number of rest hours you have missed to another rest period before the end of the third week.
Recording Working Time
Professional drivers should use a digital tachograph to record their working hours. It is essential that you keep accurate records of your working and driving hours for the current day and the previous 28 days.
Penalties for Non-Compliance of HGV Driver Hours
If you do not follow the driving hours regulations you could face a fine, points on your licence, a court summons and pose a danger to others. Please make safety a priority and remember the law.
Stay Compliant and Stay Safe
Understanding and following the regulations for HGV driving hours in the UK is crucial for drivers. It is a key part of learning to be a lorry driver and something that we take very seriously. To check the latest Government guidance visit gov.uk
If you’re looking to train as an HGV driver, contact us today for training you can trust.