From July 1, 2026, the tachograph requirement will no longer apply only to trucks and buses, but also to vans. This expansion of the rules will affect thousands of businesses in Europe.
The main change: vans with a Maximum Authorised Mass (MAM) of 2,500 kg or more that are used for international freight transport must be equipped with a smart tachograph.
Check immediately if your van requires a tachograph.
Do you have a vehicle weighing between 2,500 kg and 3,500 kg? Click the button below and complete the form to find out if you need a tachograph.
Tachograph requirement for vans
The tachograph records driving hours and is a mandatory tool to improve road safety and promote fair competition in the sector. From 2026, van drivers will also have to comply with these rules.
Companies operating vans across borders are advised to take action now:
- Map out your vehicles.
- Check the weight (MAM).
- See if you qualify for an exemption.
- Schedule tachograph installation well in advance.
Tachograph for delivery vans
The obligation applies especially to larger delivery vans. Examples include the VW Transporter and Crafter, Renault Master, Opel Movano, or Peugeot Boxer.
A common misconception is that the rule only applies above 3,500 kg, as with trucks. This is no longer the case: from 2026, vans from 2,500 kg upwards will also fall under the tachograph requirement.
Tachograph requirement for company cars
Do you only use your van within the UK? Then you will most likely not need to install a tachograph.
But do you drive to other countries, and is your vehicle heavier than 2,500 kg MAM? Then, starting on July 2026, you must comply with the tachograph obligation.
The smart tachograph will be mandatory from that point on and will automatically register border crossings and location data.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a tachograph mandatory in vans?
Yes. From July 1, 2026, vans from 2,500 kg MAM used for international freight transport must be equipped with a tachograph.
Is the smart tachograph mandatory for vans in 2026?
Yes. The latest generation tachograph (Smart Tacho 2) will be mandatory from 2026 for all vehicles that fall under the tachograph rules.
