Driver Hours – EU Regulations Flashcards

What is the maximum daily driving time under EU Regulation 561/2006?

Answer: 9 hours — extendable to 10 hours no more than twice per week

The maximum daily driving time is 9 hours. This can be extended to 10 hours on no more than two days in any calendar week. All driving is measured from the end of the previous daily rest.

What is the maximum weekly driving time under EU Regulation 561/2006?

Answer: 56 hours in any single week

The maximum driving time in any single week is 56 hours. However, the maximum over any two consecutive weeks is 90 hours — this prevents consistently high weekly driving totals.

After how many hours of continuous driving must a driver take a break?

Answer: After 4.5 hours of driving — a break of at least 45 minutes is required

After driving for 4.5 hours continuously (or 4.5 hours accumulated), a driver must take a break of at least 45 minutes before driving again. The break may be split into 15 minutes followed by 30 minutes.

Can the mandatory 45-minute break after 4.5 hours be split?

Answer: Yes — it can be split into a first break of at least 15 minutes followed by a second of at least 30 minutes

The 45-minute break may be replaced by a 15-minute break followed by a 30-minute break. The 15-minute portion must come first. During breaks, the driver must not drive or do other work.

What is the minimum daily rest period for a truck or bus driver?

Answer: 11 consecutive hours — reducible to 9 hours (reduced rest) no more than 3 times between weekly rests

The standard daily rest is 11 consecutive hours. It may be reduced to 9 consecutive hours (reduced daily rest) no more than 3 times between any two consecutive weekly rest periods.

Can a daily rest be taken in a vehicle?

Answer: Yes — if the vehicle is stationary and has a suitable sleeping berth

Daily rest may be taken in the vehicle if it is stationary and the vehicle is equipped with a suitable sleeping berth. This is a common practice for long-distance truck drivers.