Some significant dates are fast approaching for all Transport Managers in the UK to be aware of regarding the impending tachograph upgrade.
It is worth considering doing this sooner rather than later to avoid a surge in workshop installations later this year.
The implementation dates for the fitment of the smart tachograph 2, including a ‘transitional’ smart tachograph 2, are as follows:
On or after 31 December 2024
A ‘full’ smart tachograph 2 or ‘transitional’ smart tachograph 2 must be retrofitted into in-scope vehicles with an analogue or digital tachograph undertaking international journeys.
If the vehicle is operating only within the UK, then the vehicle can still use the original digital or analogue tachograph that has been fitted.
On or after 19 August 2025
A ‘full’ smart tachograph 2 or ‘transitional’ smart tachograph 2 must be retrofitted into in-scope vehicles currently fitted with a smart tachograph 1 that are undertaking international journeys.
If the vehicle is operating only within the UK, then the vehicle can still use the smart tachograph 1 that has originally been fitted.
On or after 1 July 2026
A ‘full’ smart tachograph 2 or ‘transitional’ smart tachograph 2 must be fitted into newly registered goods vehicles over 2.5 tonnes, undertaking international journeys for hire and reward.
If the vehicle is undertaking an international journey for the driver or company’s own account, and driving does not constitute the main activity of the driver, there is no requirement to fit a tachograph.
In addition, if the vehicle weighs over 2.5 tonnes and less than 3.5 tonnes and is operating only within the UK, then there continues to be no requirement to fit a tachograph into the vehicle.
Keeping on top of the latest requirements for your vehicles is essential. Contact Jared Dunbar for Transport Law advice or preparing for Public Inquiries.