Tachographs - Driving and Tampering

ByMarta Lampreia

The legislation applicable to transportation has been updated, and the Regulation (EU) 2020/1054 of July 15, 2020. This new regulation amends the diplomas that establish the general requirements relating to driving and tachograph operation times. Thus, the amendments precisely cover Regulation (EC) No 561/2006 of March 15 and Regulation (EU) No 165/2014 of February 4.  

This new Regulation on driving times and tachograph management enters into force on August 20, 2020.

Main changes

We highlight the following as the main changes:

  • Article 16, relating to control and sanctions, establishes obligations within the scope of roadside checks. In these circumstances, the driver will be required to present the record for the current day and the previous 56 days.
  • Regarding crews, driving times, breaks, and rest periods, Article 7 has been amended. This article states that the driver of a vehicle with a multi-person crew is required to take a 45-minute break. Additionally, this crew member cannot be involved in assisting the driver operating the vehicle.
  • When compensation is due for a reduced weekly rest period, Article 4 lays down rules. Thus, if the weekly rest period exceeding 45 hours takes place away from the driver's home, accommodation must be appropriate and the costs borne by the employer.
  • The employer shall demonstrate the planning of routes and driving times
  • Finally, Article 34 defines the obligation, as of February 2, 2022, to enter information on the country of origin at the border crossing into the tachograph.

These changes require companies to adapt to the new requirements. In order to support its clients, ETP makes available a set of services that you can learn more about on our website.