2024/2025 Changes to UK Drivers’ Hours Rules

Published: April 20, 2025

Drivers Hours Changes 2025

Several important updates to UK drivers’ hours rules have taken effect in 2024 and 2025. If you’re driving an HGV or PSV professionally, these changes impact your rest periods, tachograph use, and compliance responsibilities. Here’s what you need to know.


Why Have the Rules Changed?

The updates are part of an EU and UK-wide effort to modernise transport safety regulations, reduce fatigue, and ensure fair treatment of drivers. They apply to both EU drivers’ hours and GB domestic rules.

Who Is Affected?

  • HGV drivers operating in the UK or internationally
  • PSV drivers working in passenger transport
  • Operators managing fleet compliance and tachograph data

What Has Changed in 2024/2025?

  • Smart Tachograph Version 2 Required: From August 2023, all newly registered vehicles must be fitted with Smart Tachograph v2. By August 2025, this will be mandatory for international journeys.
  • Changes to Weekly Rest Rules: Drivers can now take split weekly rest under more flexible arrangements, especially when operating across borders.
  • Updated Ferry/Train Break Rules: Time spent on a ferry or train can now count toward rest if a sleeper berth is available and used appropriately.
  • Stronger Enforcement: DVSA and EU agencies are increasing roadside and depot inspections to check compliance with hours and tachograph regulations.

What This Means for You

These updates affect your working hours, rest periods, and how you plan routes. Staying compliant helps you avoid fines, downtime, and legal issues.

  • Ensure your tachograph is up to date (Smart Tachograph v2)
  • Double-check your maximum weekly driving limits
  • Keep up-to-date records, including manual entries

Recommended CPC Courses

Our Drivers’ Hours and Digital Tachographs modules are fully updated to reflect the new rules. These sessions explain the changes in plain English and include real-life case studies.

Book Your Updated CPC Module →

FAQs About the New Drivers’ Hours Rules

Are these changes mandatory?

Yes — they are already in force or becoming mandatory by 2025 depending on your vehicle type and journey type.

Do I need to upgrade my tachograph?

If you drive internationally, yes. All relevant vehicles must be fitted with Smart Tachograph v2 by August 2025.

Do the new rules apply to domestic-only drivers?

Some updates, like rest period flexibility and enforcement, apply across GB domestic operations as well.

Will these be covered in CPC training?

Yes — our Drivers’ Hours CPC module includes everything you need to know for 2025 compliance.


Tagged: drivers’ hours, CPC 2025, tachograph updates, DVSA, Smart Tachograph v2

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