The DVSA has issued an alert to HGV operators that new regulations will come into force on Monday 21 April, requiring changes to the drivers’ hours rules, writes Carol Millett.
There are no changes for vehicles operating solely within the UK.
However, international operators must ensure that their drivers are familiar with the European Agreement Concerning the Work of Crews of Vehicles Engaged in International Road Transport (AETR) rules and that vehicles are equipped to record and store the extended tachograph data.
Guidance specific to Northern Ireland operators will be updated accordingly.
Announcing the changes the DVSA said: “These regulatory updates are crucial for maintaining compliance during international operations.
“Operators should review their current practices and ensure that all necessary adjustments are made ahead of the 21 April 2025 implementation date.”
Under the changes, from 21 April HGV operators will need to produce 56 days of drivers records on international journeys, doubling the previous requirement of 28 days. This includes digital data, analogue charts, and any manual records.
In addition they will have to follow the AETR rules for journeys to and from the UK and non-EU countries.
This change affects HGVs registered outside the UK and EU, regardless of their country of registration, when engaged in international journeys.
AETR rules are largely the same as current UK/E rules. However, the following UK/EU rules do not apply to AETR journeys:
- returning to base or driver’s country of residence
- interrupting weekly rest periods
- reaching the employer’s operational centre or driver’s home (unforeseen events)
- accommodation for weekly rest
- 56-day production
HGV operators must also ensure they retrofit a smart tachograph 2 by 18 August 2025, if the vehicle is currently equipped with a smart tachograph 1, or by 1 July 2026 if the vehicle GVW is between 2.5 and 3.5 tonnes.
The updated guidance will also include a definition of what goods are in relation to drivers’ hours, an updated list of what regulations apply to drivers’ hours and working time, and replacing any reference to ‘EU law’ with ‘assimilated drivers’ hours rules.
