The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) has issued an important update for HGV operators regarding new regulations coming into effect on Monday, 21 April 2025. While domestic operators can relax, those running international routes need to prepare for significant changes.
🏠 No Changes for UK-Only Operators
If your vehicles operate exclusively within the UK, these new rules do not apply to you. Business as usual!
🌍 For International Operators: AETR Rules Now in Force
International HGV operators must adhere to the European Agreement Concerning the Work of Crews of Vehicles Engaged in International Road Transport (AETR). This means drivers must be trained on AETR requirements and vehicles must be able to record and store extended tachograph data.
💡 DVSA says:
“These regulatory updates are crucial for maintaining compliance during international operations. Operators should review their current practices and ensure that all necessary adjustments are made ahead of the 21 April 2025 implementation date.”
📅 Key Changes Coming on 21 April 2025
Here’s what’s changing and what you need to do:
🔸 56 Days of Driver Records
Operators will now need to carry and produce 56 days of drivers’ hours records for international journeys.
That’s double the previous 28-day requirement and includes:
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Digital tachograph data
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Analogue charts
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Manual records
🔸 AETR Rules Apply for UK ↔️ Non-EU Routes
If you’re travelling to or from non-EU countries, including journeys involving the UK, AETR rules will now apply.
These rules override several UK/EU rules, including:
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Return to base or driver’s residence
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Interrupting weekly rest periods
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Reaching operational centres in case of unforeseen events
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Requirements for accommodation during weekly rest
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56-day production compliance specifics
And remember, this affects all HGVs registered outside the UK and EU, regardless of their country of registration.
🕒 Smart Tachograph Requirements
You’ll also need to upgrade to Smart Tachograph 2 depending on your vehicle’s specifications:
| Vehicle Type | Retrofit Deadline |
|---|---|
| With Smart Tachograph 1 | By 18 August 2025 |
| GVW 2.5 – 3.5 tonnes | By 1 July 2026 |
📘 Updated Guidance and Definitions Coming
The DVSA’s forthcoming guidance will include:
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A clearer definition of “goods” related to drivers’ hours
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An updated list of regulations for both drivers’ hours and working time
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Replacement of ‘EU law’ references with ‘assimilated drivers’ hours rules’
For Northern Ireland operators, a tailored update will also be released shortly.
✅ What You Should Do Now
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Review your current record-keeping systems
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Train drivers on AETR compliance
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Check your tachograph hardware and retrofit if needed
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Keep an eye out for updated DVSA guidance