Professional drivers

Exemptions to tachograph use

The law exempts certain commercial vehicles from using tachographs.

Depending on the type of vehicle and what it's used for, you may not need to install or use a tachograph. This page offers a list of circumstances and vehicle types that fall under this exemption, including derogations.

When a tachograph is not required

In a limited number of cases the installation and use of a tachograph is not required. These are usually lighter working vehicles such as vans, private not-for-hire minibuses, and vehicles that work in specialised areas such as within ports, on farms, and used by the Defence Forces.

Types of vehicles that are exempt:

a passenger vehicle constructed and equipped to carry not more than nine people, including the driver
a vehicle whose gross vehicle weight is not more than 3.5 tonnes
a vehicle with a maximum authorised speed not exceeding 40kph
a vehicle with between 10 and 17 seats (including driver’s seat) used exclusively for the non-commercial carriage of passengers. For example, a minibus owned by a sports club and used only to transport club members to and from sporting events.

Exemptions and derogations

Download and read our comprehensive guide to tachograph and drivers’ hours exemptions. Please note that drivers, operators and owners who claim an exemption they’re not entitled to will be prosecuted.

28th August 2026

Temporary derogation from certain EU driving and resting time rules for the transport of animal feed within Ireland from 31st August to 13th September 2026 to relieve pressures on farming caused by prolonged dry weather

The Road Safety Authority (RSA) and the Department of Transport (DoT) have agreed to allow a temporary and urgent derogation in respect of certain provisions of the EU driving and resting time rules for the drivers of vehicles undertaking the transport of animal feed throughout Ireland. The move is being made in order to address pressures in the agri-supply chain arising from prolonged dry weather, especially in the south and south-east of the country. The measures will provide additional flexibility for drivers and the farming sector in keeping the agri-supply chain operating, while at the same time balancing driver welfare and road safety objectives. For more information on the temporary derogations click on the link below.

Drivers Hours Derogation - Transport of Animal Feed - August 2026 pdf | 216 KB

How to apply for an exemption

If you believe your vehicle is exempt from tachograph regulations you must declare your exemption by following these steps:

Download and complete the Tachograph Declaration Form (PDF) or ask your Commercial Vehicle Roadworthiness (CVR) testing centre to print a copy of the form which will be pre-populated with your vehicle details
Bring the signed form to your nearest CVR testing centre where the vehicle needs to be comprehensively checked to ensure it meets the exemption requirements
Ask the CVR testing centre to stamp the form in the box at the bottom of page two: ‘Stamp of authorised tester’ and then request that they upload the form to the test record on their computer system.