Driving Hours: What Every HGV Driver Needs to Know

Ever wondered how many hours you can legally drive a big rig before you need a break? The answer isn’t a guess – it’s written into UK and EU law, and breaking it can cost you time, money, and safety. This guide breaks down the rules, shows you how to log your time, and gives simple tricks to stay within the limits without feeling restricted.

Legal Limits on Driving Hours

For Class 1 HGV drivers the law says you can drive a maximum of 9 hours in a single day. You can stretch that to 10 hours, but only twice a week. After 4.5 hours you must take a 45‑minute break, which can be split into two 15‑minute rests. Over a two‑week period you’re capped at 56 hours total, and you can’t exceed 90 hours in any rolling 4‑week span. These numbers sound strict, but they’re built to prevent fatigue – the biggest accident factor on the road.

Practical Tips to Stay Within the Rules

First, use a digital tachograph or a reliable app that records your driving, rest, and availability periods automatically. Check the log before you start a shift; if you’re close to the daily limit, plan a rest stop early. Keep a small notebook in the cab for quick notes – sometimes the electronic read‑out can lag, and a handwritten backup saves headaches.

Second, build rest into your route. A 30‑minute coffee break counts as a rest only if you’re stopped for the full time, so pull over at a service area where you can stretch your legs. Those short walks do more than reset the clock – they clear your mind and reduce the chance of missing a hazard.

Third, talk to your dispatcher. Let them know your hour‑status in real time so they can adjust deliveries if you’re hitting a limit. Most companies appreciate the honesty; it avoids last‑minute scrambles and shows you care about safety.

Fourth, treat the 45‑minute break as a mini‑reset. Use it to eat, hydrate, and take a quick nap if needed. Even a short power nap can boost alertness for the next driving stint. Keep a small pillow and a light blanket in the cab – they’re cheap, but they make a big difference.

Finally, review your weekly totals every Sunday. If you’re close to the 56‑hour mark, plan a longer rest day or swap shifts with a colleague. Staying ahead of the clock beats trying to squeeze in extra miles at the end of the week.

Remember, the rules exist to keep you and other road users safe. The best drivers see the hours limit not as a hurdle, but as a roadmap to a healthier, more reliable career. Stick to the limits, log accurately, and you’ll avoid fines, licence points, and the most dangerous part of driving – fatigue.