Driver card
Every 28 days
DVSA guidance states that operators must periodically download driver-card data every 28 days.
UK operator checklist
Tachograph download and record-keeping checklist.
Understand the main driver-card and Vehicle Unit download intervals, the need to analyse the records and the different retention periods that UK operators should keep in view.
The four periods operators often need to separate.
Download intervals and retention periods are not the same thing. The figures below summarise current DVSA guidance for Great Britain, last checked on 26 July 2026.
This is a practical orientation, not legal advice. Always confirm which rules apply to the vehicle, journey and worker using the linked official guidance.
Vehicle Unit
Every 90 days
Vehicle Unit data must be downloaded at least every 90 calendar days and sooner in specified circumstances.
Different records
12 months and 2 years
Operators must be able to produce tachograph records for 12 months. Road transport working-time records have a two-year retention period.
Downloading is only the first step.
Current DVSA guidance says operators must download data from digital and smart tachographs and driver cards, then analyse the information to ensure that the rules have been complied with.
- Keep the original downloaded files
- Check that the expected driver and vehicle records are present
- Review Drivers’ Hours, working-time and tachograph findings
- Investigate the activity behind an automated result
- Retain the evidence required for inspection and follow-up
When Vehicle Unit data may need downloading sooner.
The 90-day interval is a maximum routine interval, not a reason to wait where data is at risk or control of the vehicle is changing.
Before control is transferred
DVSA guidance requires a download immediately before transferring control of the vehicle, including sale or un-hire.
Removal or malfunction
Download without delay when permanently removing the unit or, where possible, after becoming aware that it is malfunctioning.
Risk of data loss
Download without delay where data may be erased imminently, and as often as necessary to ensure no data is lost.
How TachoAssist fits after the download.
TachoAssist does not replace the card reader, download key or remote-download equipment used to obtain the original file. It provides the browser-based workspace used after the file is available.
- Driver-card .DDD files on Driver and Business
- Vehicle Unit .DDD files on Business
- File history, retention, deletion and archiving controls
- Driver, selected-driver, fleet and vehicle reports
- API upload and import for Business users
Important: automated findings support compliance work and must be reviewed. TachoAssist is not legal advice or a definitive statement of compliance.
Official sources
Verify the current requirement.
Guidance and legislation can change. Use these primary sources rather than relying on an unsourced summary.
DVSA: tachograph rulesDriver-card and Vehicle Unit download intervals and digital record requirements
DVSA: responsibilities of vehicle operatorsDownloads, regular checks, production of records and additional VU download events
DVSA: road transport working-time rulesWorking-time scope and two-year record-keeping requirement
Regulation (EC) No 561/2006EU driving times, breaks and rest periods
Related tachograph workflows.
Questions
Tachograph download rules FAQ
How often must a driver card be downloaded?
Current DVSA guidance for Great Britain states that operators must download driver-card data every 28 days. Confirm the current rule and scope for the operation in the official guidance.
How often must Vehicle Unit data be downloaded?
Current DVSA guidance states at least every 90 calendar days, plus additional downloads in specified circumstances such as before transfer of control or where data may be lost.
Do downloaded tachograph records need to be analysed?
Yes. DVSA guidance states that operators must periodically download the data and analyse the information to ensure that the rules have been complied with.
How long must tachograph and working-time records be kept?
DVSA guidance says operators must be able to produce tachograph records for 12 months. Road transport working-time records need to be retained for two years after the relevant period. These are different responsibilities.