From 1 July 2026, new tachograph requirements come into force for light goods vehicles operating internationally between the UK and EU. If you manage vehicles in this category, the clock is already ticking - booking lead times mean you need to act now.
What’s Changing?
From 1 July 2026, light goods vehicles (LGVs) over 2.5 tonnes that are used for international hire-and-reward journeys between the UK and EU must be fitted with a Smart Tachograph Version 2 (Gen 2).
This means that if your drivers are being paid to transport goods between the UK and EU, they will also need to comply with the assimilated drivers’ hours rules, the same framework that already applies to HGV operators.
Key Deadline
1 July 2026: Smart Tachograph 2 must be fitted to qualifying LGVs before this date. Average booking lead time is 4–6 weeks, so act immediately if you haven’t already.
Does this Apply to Your Fleet?
The rules apply to LGVs over 2.5 tonnes operating internationally for hire and reward. Your vehicle or trailer combination is exempt if:
- It is used on international journeys for the driver’s or operator’s own account and driving is not the driver’s main activity
- It weighs over 2.5 tonnes but under 3.5 tonnes and operates only within the UK
If neither exemption applies, your vehicle falls within scope and must be compliant by 1 July.
What Do You Need To Do?
If your vehicles are in scope, here’s what to do now:
- Identify which vehicles in your fleet are used for international hire-and-reward journeys over 2.5 tonnes
- Check whether any exemptions apply
- Book Smart Tachograph 2 fitting appointments: allow 4–6 weeks for scheduling
- Ensure drivers are briefed on their obligations under the assimilated drivers’ hours rules
- Review your compliance records and tachograph data processes before the deadline
How H-TEC Can Help
Tachograph compliance is a specialist area and getting it wrong carries real risk. Whether you’re unsure whether your fleet is in scope, need Smart Tachograph 2 fitting, or want to review your wider drivers’ hours compliance, our team is here to help.
With over a decade of independent tachograph expertise, H-TEC works with fleet operators across the UK to keep them compliant, informed, and ahead of regulatory change.
Get in touch with the H-TEC Team today:
Further reading: GOV.UK — Tachograph Rules (Drivers’ Hours: Goods Vehicles)
Source: DVSA compliance update, May 2026
