From August 2025, the use of the new Smart Tachograph 2 will be mandatory for all ‘in scope’ vehicles that are already fitted with a Smart Tachograph 1 and are travelling internationally, including journeys within the European Union. The aim is to improve road safety, ensure fair competition and simplify enforcement for authorities.
This is part of a phased implementation to introduce the new technology that started in August 2023 when it was mandated that the Smart Tachograph 2 must be fitted into newly registered in-scope vehicles undertaking international journeys and then in December 2024 when it became compulsory for these to be retrofitted into in-scope vehicles with an analogue or digital tachograph undertaking international journeys.
The Smart Tachograph 2 is the next-generation digital tachograph mandated by the EU. It's designed to enhance driver monitoring, reduce manual inspections, and prevent tampering and fraud. The device records driving times, rest periods, and border crossings with greater accuracy and automation than what has gone before.
Who is impacted by tachograph changes?
Those vehicles required to observe this rule (in-scope vehicles already fitted with Smart Tachograph 1 version) are HGVs over 3.5 tonnes and passenger vehicles carrying more than 9 people involved in cross-border journeys within the EU and beyond need to be compliant ahead of the August 2025 deadline. From July 2026, vans and light commercial vehicles over 2.5 tonnes used for international transport will also be required to install a Smart Tachograph 2.
What do I need to do?
While the UK is no longer part of the EU, UK based operators working internationally must still comply.
If you haven’t already, it’s important that you audit your fleet and identify vehicles that require retrofitting. Owners, managers, drivers and support staff should be trained to understand how the new system works and how to remain compliant – this may involve a complete review of your existing compliance strategies.
What happens if I don’t comply with tachograph regulations?
Failing to comply with Smart Tachograph 2 regulations can lead to serious financial and operational consequences. Enforcement across the EU is tightening, with penalties varying by country. In the UK, the DVSA can issue fixed penalties of £300 per offence. Repeat violations can exceed this. Authorities can also stop and immobilise non-compliant vehicles at the roadside and prohibit onward travel as well suspend the operator’s licence.
It's also worth emphasising that tachograph fraud, or the manipulation of tachographs can result in a criminal prosecution and the permanent removal of the operating licence.
To learn more about tachograph offence penalties, legal obligations and how to stay compliant, visit our tachograph offences page. For guidance on operator’s licence offences please see: Operator's licence offences.
Comments