The main limits
- Daily driving: up to 9 hours, which can be extended to 10 hours twice a week.
- Weekly driving: up to 56 hours.
- Fortnightly driving: up to 90 hours.
- Breaks: a 45 minute break after 4.5 hours of driving, which can be split into two parts.
- Daily rest: normally 11 hours, with limited reductions allowed.
- Weekly rest: normally 45 hours, with limited reductions allowed.
GB domestic rules
Some vehicles and journeys fall under GB domestic rules instead, with different limits, for example 10 hours driving a day. Which rules apply depends on the vehicle and use, so check GOV.UK.
Records
Hours are recorded on a tachograph or on a written record in certain cases. Keep the records for the required period and have a process for checking them.
Why this belongs next to vehicle checks
Tired drivers miss defects. The walkaround check is more reliable when drivers are not rushed or over their hours. Time stamped check records also help show when a driver actually started.
General information for Great Britain, not legal advice. Rules change, so check GOV.UK and DVSA for the latest. Northern Ireland has its own rules.