Tachographs are mandatory equipment for most trucks and buses in Europe. Their task is to record the driver's working time, the route travelled and the speed of the vehicle. However, having a tachograph alone is not enough - the device must be regularly legalised, i.e. calibrated by an authorised service. Failure to legalise the tachograph carries serious financial and administrative consequences for both the driver and the entrepreneur.
Legalisation of the tachograph confirms that the device operates in accordance with applicable technical standards. Lack of up-to-date calibration may result in high fines. In practice, the penalty for not legalising the tachograph can be up to PLN 2,000 for the driver and even PLN 5,000 for the owner of the transport company . In addition, additional sanctions are possible, such as suspension of the transport license. Regular legalisation of the device also minimises the risk of tachograph failure and allows you to avoid disputes related to drivers' working hours or incorrect data reading. You will find the full range of accessories and devices related to tachographs in the tachographs category in the Autos store.
In the event of a road check, the finding of a lack of tachograph legalization results in the imposition of a fine. Both the driver and the entrepreneur are responsible - each within the scope of their duties.
Driver – fine for lack of tachograph legalization up to PLN 2,000.
Entrepreneur – administrative fine up to PLN 5,000.
In addition to a financial penalty, inspectors may order immediate calibration of the device or, in extreme cases, suspend the transport.
If the tachograph in the vehicle does not have a valid legalisation, inspectors may impose:
penalty notice,
administrative penalty for the company,
obligation to immediately legalize,
decision on a temporary ban on transport.
In case of repeated violations, the transport license may be withdrawn or the certificate of professional competence may be withdrawn.
If you need a proven service to legalize your device, use the services of Autos truck services , which also specialize in tachograph servicing .
The obligation to equip a vehicle with a tachograph applies essentially to:
vehicles over 3.5 tonnes GVW,
buses designed to transport more than 9 people including the driver.
However, there are situations when driving without a tachograph is permitted , for example:
vehicles used for non-commercial purposes (e.g. private removals),
specialist vehicles such as fire engines or ambulances,
short distance transport up to 100 km in some industries (agriculture, forestry).
If you are wondering when a tachograph is required and when you do not need to have a tachograph , it is worth checking the current EU regulations and Polish regulations for a specific type of transport each time.
Neglecting the device legalization process involves not only penalties, but also increased risks:
false data readings,
problems in the event of an accident or collision,
loss of reputation of the transport company.
In addition, tachographs require precise operation to correctly record drivers' working hours in accordance with the regulations on driving and rest times. Failure to comply with the obligations may result in additional penalties at European level. In the Autos automotive store you will also find full workshop equipment, parts for vans and parts for trucks necessary for the proper maintenance of the fleet.
Legalization of the tachograph is a legal obligation and a basic element of safety in road transport. Failure to legalize the tachograph results in serious financial consequences and a threat to the continuity of business. For your own safety and for the good of the company , it is worth remembering to calibrate the tachograph on time and use the support of proven services specializing in servicing heavy goods vehicles.
