Tachograph – A Practical Guide: Common Mistakes and Questions

By / / 3.5-ton Tachograph and New EU Regulations

Proper use of the tachograph is essential for complying with driving, break, and rest periods. Most violations result from simple mistakes: incorrect selection of the activity, failure to make manual entries, exceeding the driving time limit, or confusing a break with a daily rest period. A clear procedure helps drivers and transport operators avoid penalties and demonstrate compliance during inspections.

In short, the practical rules for using the tachograph are:

  • The driver must correctly select the activity: driving, work, break, rest, or on-call.
  • Manual entries must be made at the beginning or end of the shift, when the tachograph has not recorded them automatically.
  • The card should not be left in the tachograph during holidays or long breaks when the vehicle is not in use.
  • The card is usually removed at the end of the workday or when the vehicle is no longer in use.
  • After a maximum of 4 hours and 30 minutes of continuous driving, a 45-minute break is required.
  • The daily driving time is normally a maximum of 9 hours and may be extended to 10 hours only under the conditions specified by law.
  • The standard daily rest period is 11 hours and should not be confused with the 45-minute break.
  • The daily rest period may be taken in the truck if the vehicle is parked and properly equipped.
  • The standard 45-hour weekly rest period must not be taken in the cab where prohibited by law.
  • Weekly driving time is limited to a maximum of 56 hours and a maximum of 90 hours over two consecutive weeks.
  • When switching drivers, ensure that they are properly logged in to Slot 1 and Slot 2.
  • The OUT mode should only be used in situations where the vehicle is exempt from the application of tachograph rules.

The digital tachograph is a complex device, and mistakes in its use can result in serious penalties during inspections. Below you will find the most common errors and answers to frequently asked questions.

I. The Most Common Mistakes When Using a Tachograph

  • Failure to select the correct activity (work, break, on-call)
  • Failure to include physical activities at the beginning or end of the program
  • Leaving the card in the tachograph during vacations or long breaks
  • Exceeding the daily driving time limit (9/10 hours)
  • Failure to take a 45-minute break after driving for 4 hours and 30 minutes
  • Insufficient daily rest (less than 11 hours)
  • Confusing the daily rest period with a break
  • Failure to take the weekly rest period within the legally prescribed time limit
  • Taking the regular weekly rest period in the cab (where it is prohibited)
  • Incorrect use of the OUT mode
  • Driver changes without proper logging in to Slot 1 / Slot 2
  • Failure to print data during an inspection when requested

II. Frequently Asked Questions and Correct Answers

Q: When should the card be removed from the tachograph?

A: The card should only be removed at the end of the daily work shift or when the vehicle is no longer in use. It should not be removed during breaks or daily rest periods spent in the cab.

Q: What should be done when a driver has several days off?

A: Remove the card and manually enter the relevant activities (leave/vacation) when you return to work.

Q: Can the 11-hour daily rest period be taken in the truck?

A: Yes, if the vehicle is equipped with a bed and is stationary.

Frequently Asked Questions

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