Important Update: New Rules for International HGV Drivers

 

The DVSA has announced changes to the drivers’ hours rules that will apply to international journeys from Monday 21 April 2025.

If you only drive within the UK, nothing changes for you.

But if you’re driving internationally, here’s what you need to know:

What’s Changing

  • You’ll need to carry 56 days of driving records (up from 28).

    This includes digital data, analogue charts, and any manual entries.

  • You’ll need to follow AETR rules (European Agreement on international road transport) on trips to or from the UK and non-EU countries.

  • These changes apply even if your vehicle is not registered in the UK or EU, as long as you’re doing international work.

AETR Rules – What’s Different?

Most AETR rules are similar to UK/EU ones, but some UK/EU exceptions won’t apply, including:

  • Returning to base or home country

  • Interrupting weekly rest

  • Dealing with delays or unforeseen events

  • Requirements around accommodation for rest

  • 56-day record rule (as mentioned above)

Tachograph Upgrades Required

  • If your vehicle has a smart tachograph 1, it’ll need to be upgraded to smart tachograph 2:

    • By 18 August 2025

    • Or by 1 July 2026 if your vehicle is between 2.5 and 3.5 tonnes GVW

Other Updates Coming

New guidance will also include:

  • A clear definition of “goods” for drivers’ hours rules

  • An updated list of which rules apply to your hours and working time

  • New wording—“EU law” will be replaced with “assimilated drivers’ hours rules”

DVSA says:

“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.”

Make sure you’re ready. If you have questions, speak to your transport manager or check your company’s driver guidance.

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Drivers’ hours rules and guidance can be found here.