HGV Drivers' Hours Rules 2025: The Complete UK & EU Guide
HGV drivers face strict regulations to prevent fatigue-related accidents. Get it wrong, and you risk fines up to £300 per infringement, licence suspensions, and increased roadside inspections.
Pro Tip: Use our free Drivers' Hours Calculator to track your time automatically.
Daily Driving Limits (2024 Rules)
1. Maximum Driving Time
| Regulation | Limit |
|---|---|
| Standard Day | 9 hours |
| Extended Day | 10 hours (max 2x/week) |
What Counts as Driving?
Time spent behind the wheel (even in traffic). Ferry/train time only counts if not in a sleeper berth.
2. Breaks Required
- After 4.5 hours: 45-minute continuous break or
- Split Breaks: 15 mins + 30 mins (must total 45 mins)
Example Schedule
Drive 4h 30m → Take 45m break → Drive another 4h 30m
Weekly & Fortnightly Limits
| Period | Max Driving | Rest Required |
|---|---|---|
| Week | 56 hours | 45-hour rest (or 24h reduced max 3x/week) |
| 2 Weeks | 90 hours | – |
Key Change for 2025: DVSA now checks fortnightly totals more strictly during inspections.
Tachograph Rules vs. Digital Tools
Legal Requirements
- Digital tachograph is mandatory for compliance
- Our calculator helps plan shifts and spot potential infringements early
Remember: This app supplements (but doesn't replace) your official tachograph records.
5 Common Mistakes to Avoid
1. Miscounting Extended Days
Using 10-hour days more than twice weekly
2. Incorrect Break Splits
Taking 20+25 mins instead of required 15+30 mins
3. Ignoring 'Other Work' Time
Loading/unloading counts toward your 15-hour shift limit
4. Ferry/Train Errors
Must select 'ferry' mode on tachograph
5. Weekly Rest Timing
45-hour rest must include two nights (e.g., Fri 8PM → Sun 5PM)
How Our Calculator Helps
Track everything in one place with:
Real-time countdowns
PDF reports
Mobile-friendly
FAQs
Can I reduce my weekly rest below 24 hours?
No. 24 hours is the absolute minimum (EU Regulation 561/2006).
Do breaks count toward shift time?
No – your 15-hour shift limit pauses during breaks.
What if I exceed limits accidentally?
Stop driving immediately and note the reason in your tachograph log.