What is a digital tachograph?

A tachograph is a device in the dashboard that records the speed and times that a truck is driven.  The Police and Traffic Authorities can use the tachograph to check that a driver has not exceeded his legal working hours.  It is a legal requirement that all vehicles over 3.5t are fitted with a tachograph.

Analogue tachographs record the information on paper discs.  Since September 2006, all new trucks are required to have a digital tachograph which records on electronic media the size of a credit card.  Each driver and Operator must apply to DVLA for a 'smart card' (currently £38 each) by calling:

DVLA Helpline 0870 850 1074

Company card application form = D779B

More details are available on the Transport Office website:

Applying for a driver smart card

Applying for a company smart card

We also have a stock of applications available on request