PCV Tachograph & Drivers' Hours (PCV) 4 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: How long must an operator retain digital tachograph vehicle unit data?
- At least 12 months after it was recorded (Correct answer)
- At least 28 days
- At least 6 months
- At least 24 months
Correct answer: At least 12 months after it was recorded
Vehicle unit data must be downloaded and retained by the operator for at least 12 months. Regular downloads (at least every 90 days from the VU) ensure data is preserved before it is overwritten.
Question 2: What does the 'POA' (Period of Availability) mode on a tachograph mean for a PCV driver?
- Time when the driver is available but not driving or working — such as waiting at a terminus for the return journey (Correct answer)
- Rest time taken in the cab
- Any time spent outside the vehicle
- Time when the driver is assisting passengers but not driving
Correct answer: Time when the driver is available but not driving or working — such as waiting at a terminus for the return journey
POA (Period of Availability) is recorded when the driver is available to work but not actively doing so — such as waiting at a terminus, waiting during loading, or accompanying a vehicle on a ferry. It is not rest, but it is not other work either.
Question 3: What happens if a PCV driver uses someone else's tachograph card?
- This is a serious criminal offence — driver identity fraud that can result in prosecution and loss of licence (Correct answer)
- A minor administrative offence with a small fine
- Only an issue if the other driver was also working that day
- Permissible in emergency situations
Correct answer: This is a serious criminal offence — driver identity fraud that can result in prosecution and loss of licence
Using another person's driver card is identity fraud and a criminal offence. Tachograph records must accurately reflect the actual driver. Misuse of driver cards is taken extremely seriously by enforcement authorities and Traffic Commissioners.
Question 4: A PCV driver on a long-distance coach service is asked by the operator to drive beyond their permitted hours. What should the driver do?
- Refuse — a driver must not exceed hours limits regardless of operator instructions; compliance is the driver's personal responsibility (Correct answer)
- Follow operator instructions — the operator bears all responsibility
- Drive the extra distance if passengers will be stranded
- Agree only if the operator provides written authorisation
Correct answer: Refuse — a driver must not exceed hours limits regardless of operator instructions; compliance is the driver's personal responsibility
Compliance with drivers' hours is the driver's personal legal responsibility. An operator cannot authorise an illegal breach of hours limits. The driver should refuse and the operator should make alternative arrangements. No written authorisation makes an hours breach legal.
Question 5: What is the 'regular weekly rest' compensation rule when a PCV driver takes a reduced weekly rest?
- The reduction must be compensated by an equivalent block of rest taken en bloc before the end of the third week following the reduced rest (Correct answer)
- Compensation is not required for PCV drivers
- The compensation can be taken in any form over any period
- Compensation must be given immediately the following day
Correct answer: The reduction must be compensated by an equivalent block of rest taken en bloc before the end of the third week following the reduced rest
When a reduced weekly rest (minimum 24 hours) is taken, the shortfall compared to the 45-hour regular rest must be compensated in one block before the end of the third week following. The same rule applies to PCV and LGV drivers.
Question 6: What is a 'driver attestation form' and when is it used for PCV operations?
- A form signed by the operator confirming a driver has been on legitimate rest during periods not covered by tachograph records (e.g., holiday) (Correct answer)
- A form the driver signs to confirm they have read safety procedures
- A qualification certificate for tachograph operation
- A declaration of hours worked for payroll purposes
Correct answer: A form signed by the operator confirming a driver has been on legitimate rest during periods not covered by tachograph records (e.g., holiday)
A driver attestation form confirms what a driver was doing during periods not recorded on the tachograph (such as days off, illness, or holiday). It is required when an enforcement officer asks for records and some periods are not covered by tachograph data.
PCV Tachograph & Drivers' Hours (PCV) 4
How long must an operator retain digital tachograph vehicle unit data?