The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) has announced a significant change in driving regulations effective from July 1. All drivers operating goods vehicles over 2.5 tonnes will need to have a smart tachograph 2 (ST2) fitted to their vehicles, especially when driving between the UK and the EU.
This new rule means that drivers being paid to drive light goods vehicles (LGVs) over 2.5 tonnes internationally must have a tachograph installed. Additionally, operators must ensure compliance with assimilated drivers’ hours regulations to avoid penalties.
However, there are two key exemptions to this requirement. First, drivers using vehicles internationally for their own account, where driving is not their main activity, are not required to fit an ST2. Second, drivers operating vehicles weighing between 2.5 and 3.5 tonnes solely within the UK are also exempt.
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Operators affected by this regulation are advised to act promptly before the July 1 deadline, with the DVSA noting current lead times for tachograph fitting appointments range between 4 to 6 weeks. Early planning can help avoid unnecessary delays and potential non-compliance.
To explain the technology, the DVSA describes analogue tachographs as devices that use a stylus to record information on wax-coated charts, tracking speed, distance, and driver activity modes. Drivers manually enter details such as name, journey start and end locations, dates, and odometer readings on the inner part of these charts. The reverse side allows for manual entries and records of other vehicles driven during the period.
Matt Candish, head of compliance information at Logistics UK, emphasized the importance of timely preparation, particularly for operators in Northern Ireland. Those with vehicles over 2.5 tonnes traveling to the Republic of Ireland must also install an ST2. Delays in fitting could lead to long waiting times, increased risk of non-compliance, fines, and operational disruption.
Operators should review their current vehicle fleets and ensure they meet the new tachograph requirements well before the July 1 deadline to maintain smooth and lawful operations.