New rules for vans from 1 July 2026

 

From 1 July 2026, light good vehicles (LGVs) used for international transport in the EU must be equipped with a smart tachograph. These requirements are part of the Mobility Package 1, adopted in 2020, and introduce new obligations for both employers and drivers. Below is an overview of what the new rules mean for you as a driver.

• WHO IS AFFECTED? The new rules apply to EU and non-EU drivers employed by a transport company established in an EU Member State who carry out international transport / cabotage with LGVs over 2.5 tonnes.
• SUBJECT TO: These drivers are subject to EU driving and rest time rules and EU posting of workers rules.
• DRIVING AND REST TIMES: You as a driver must comply with EU driving and rest time rules and correctly use the smart tachograph.
• POSTED WORKERS: If you are posted to another Member State, you are entitled to the higher level of pay and better working conditions that apply there. If these are not higher, the rules of your country of employment apply.
• REQUIRED DOCUMENTS: In the event of a roadside inspection, you should carry your posting declaration, transport documents (CMR), and tachograph records, including your driver card data.
• EMPLOYER OBLIGATIONS: The employer must train drivers on the new tachograph requirements, organise work schedules so drivers can comply with driving and rest time rules, pay for accommodation during regular weekly rests (at least 45 hours) taken outside the vehicle, and ensure drivers can return home or to the company base every 3 or 4 weeks.

ETF welcomes these new rules as a step towards safer and fairer road transport. However, we believe they should go further. Currently, the rules only apply to LGVs over 2.5 tonnes engaged in international transport. All professional transport carrying cargo, regardless of vehicle weight, should be covered and that all working time, not only driving time, should be recorded.

 

The European Labour Authority (ELA) has provided a summary of the new rules (available here).