Tachograph cards are crucial for anyone operating commercial vehicles, particularly in the UK. These cards are not just pieces of plastic; they play a vital role in ensuring road safety and compliance with regulations. In this blog, we’ll cover what a tachograph card is, how to apply for one, and the regulations surrounding its use. Whether you’re a new driver or looking to renew your card, this guide has you covered.
What is a Tachograph?
A tachograph is a device used in commercial vehicles to record driving time, speed, and distance. It ensures compliance with regulations regarding drivers’ hours and helps prevent fatigue-related accidents. Tachographs can be either analog or digital, with the latter being mandatory for vehicles manufactured after 2006 that weigh over 3,500 kg. These devices are essential for managing driver schedules and ensuring that drivers take necessary breaks to maintain safety on the road.
Digital Tachograph Card
What is a Digital Tachograph Card?
A digital tachograph card is essential for operating vehicles equipped with a digital tachograph. This card is unique to each driver, enabling accurate tracking of driving hours and ensuring compliance with regulations. It resembles a credit card and includes a photo ID, functioning similarly to a UK or EU driving license.
Digital tachograph cards not only store information about driving hours but also track other essential data, such as vehicle speed and location. This comprehensive logging helps fleet managers monitor compliance and maintain safe driving practices across their operations.
Types of Digital Tachograph Cards
There are several types of digital tachograph cards, but the most common is the driver card. This card must be inserted into the tachograph before driving to log hours and ensure drivers do not exceed their driving time without taking required breaks.
Applying for a Tachograph Card
You can apply for your first GB driver digital tachograph card either online or by post. Here’s a quick overview of the process:
- Online Application: If you’re a resident of England, Scotland, or Wales and have a GB photocard driving license, you can apply online for your first card.
- Post Application: Required for exchanging foreign cards, replacing damaged cards, or if you have a paper driving license.
Digital tachograph card renewal
- Renewal: You should renew your card at least 15 working days before it expires. The renewal process is the same as the initial application.
- Replacement: If your card is lost, stolen, or damaged, report it to the DVLA immediately and apply for a replacement within 7 days.
Digital tachograph card cost
The fees for tachograph cards vary depending on your situation:
- First GB driver digital tachograph card: £32
- Renewal of an expired card: £19
- Replacement of a lost or stolen card: £19
- Changing an EU/EEA card to a GB card: £32
Always check the DVLA website for the most current fees, as they may be subject to change.

How to Operate a Digital Tachograph
To use your digital tachograph card for the first time:
- Ensure the chip is facing up and insert it into slot number 1 of the tachograph machine.
- Check the time on the tachograph and manually edit it if necessary.
- Press “OK” to begin recording your driving data.
Tachograph Rules
According to UK regulations, drivers cannot drive for longer than 4.5 hours without taking a break of at least 45 minutes. This rest period resets the driving clock, allowing you to safely continue your journey. It’s essential for drivers to keep track of their driving hours to ensure compliance and safety.
Checking Your Card Status Online
Drivers can now easily check the status of their tachograph cards online. Simply log in to the View Driving Licence service to access details about your card’s validity, expiration dates, and more. This service provides convenience and peace of mind, helping drivers stay informed about their compliance.
Keeping Your Card Safe
To ensure the longevity of your tachograph card, avoid bending or flexing it, keep it clean, and store it securely. Consider using a cardholder to protect it from potential damage. Regularly check your card for signs of wear and tear, and address any issues promptly to avoid disruptions in your driving activities.
Conclusion
Understanding tachograph cards is essential for compliance in the transport industry. Whether you’re applying for your first card, renewing it, or managing it, being informed will help you avoid penalties and ensure safe driving practices.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How long is a digital tachograph card valid?
A digital tachograph card is typically valid for five years. It’s important to apply for renewal at least 15 working days before it expires.
2. What should I do if I lose my tachograph card?
If your tachograph card is lost, stolen, or damaged, you must report it to the DVLA immediately and apply for a replacement within 7 days.
3. Can I drive without my tachograph card?
Driving a commercial vehicle without a valid tachograph card is an offense. You may drive without a card for a maximum of 15 days while waiting for a replacement, but you must keep records of your driving activities.
4. How do I know if my tachograph card is still valid?
You can check the status of your tachograph card online through the View Driving Licence service. This will show you whether your card is valid, expired, or lost.
5. Are there any exemptions from using a tachograph?
Exemptions exist for certain vehicles that do not fall under EU or AETR rules. Check with your employer or relevant authority to confirm if your vehicle qualifies.
6. How many hours can you drive on a tachograph?
You cannot drive for longer than 4.5 hours without taking a break of at least 45 minutes. This break resets the driving clock, allowing you to safely continue your journey.
7. What happens if I don’t follow tachograph rules?
Failing to comply with tachograph rules can lead to severe penalties, including fines, points on your license, or even disqualification from driving. It’s crucial to adhere to all regulations to maintain safety and legality on the road.
8. Can I check my tachograph card status online?
Yes, drivers can check their tachograph card status online through the View Driving Licence service, which allows you to view details such as validity, expiration dates, and other relevant information.
9. Can I apply for a new digital tachograph card online?
Yes, You can apply for it online for first time issue or renewal or replacement after it got lost or stolen.
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