DTT HGV Driver Hours – EU Regulations 3

Question 1

Can a driver take a split daily rest period, and if so, what are the rules?

Accepted Answer

Yes — split into two periods: first at least 3 hours, second at least 9 hours, totalling at least 12 hours

Answer

Daily rest may be split into two periods if the first period is at least 3 hours and the second is at least 9 hours. The total must be at least 12 hours. The order is fixed — 3 hours first, then 9 hours.

Question 2

What happens if a driver's reduced weekly rest creates a compensatory rest obligation?

Accepted Answer

The reduction must be compensated en bloc before the end of the third week following the week of reduction

Answer

When a driver takes a reduced weekly rest (24-hour minimum), the reduction must be compensated by attaching equivalent rest to another rest period before the end of the third week following the reduction.

Question 3

A bus driver has been driving for 4 hours and has accumulated 30 minutes of breaks. Can they continue driving?

Accepted Answer

Yes — they have only driven 4 hours and can drive another 30 minutes before reaching the 4.5-hour limit

Answer

The 4.5-hour driving limit allows the driver to continue for another 30 minutes. However, if the 30 minutes already taken are in one piece, the second portion of a split break (30 minutes) has already been taken — sequence matters.

Question 4

What is the 'fortnightly rule' in EU driver hours regulations?

Accepted Answer

In any two consecutive weeks, total driving must not exceed 90 hours

Answer

The fortnightly rule limits total driving in any two consecutive weeks to 90 hours. This prevents drivers from taking a maximum 56-hour week every week.

Question 5

Under EU rules, how must weekly rest be taken in relation to the vehicle?

Accepted Answer

Regular weekly rest (45 hours) must not normally be taken in a vehicle — it should be taken at a suitable location

Answer

Under EU Regulation 561/2006 as amended, regular weekly rest (45+ hours) must not normally be taken in a vehicle. Drivers should use suitable accommodation. Reduced weekly rest of 24 hours may be taken in a vehicle.

Irish DTT Truck/Bus Practice Test

Irish DTT Truck/Bus Practice Test

DTT HGV Driver Hours – EU Regulations 3