Driving and rest time (EU 561/2006)
Enter the distance and average speed; see how long the truck really takes to arrive, breaks and rest included.
How is it calculated?
A 45-minute break after 4.5 hours of driving; at most 9 hours of driving a day (10 hours on two days a week if you allow it), then 11 hours of rest.
A 45-hour weekly rest once 56 hours have been driven in the week or after six working days.
The 10-hour extension is used only when it finishes the trip that day and saves a daily rest.
Assumptions
- One driver; double-manning, split breaks and reduced rests are not used (a cautious estimate).
- Loading/unloading, customs, ferry and traffic time are not included.
- On a long single trip also check the 90-hour two-week limit.
Frequently asked questions
How many hours can an HGV driver drive a day?
Under EU 561/2006 up to 9 hours, extendable to 10 hours twice a week. The weekly limit is 56 hours and the two-week limit 90 hours.
When must a break be taken?
At least 45 minutes after 4.5 hours of driving; it can be split into 15 + 30 minutes.
Updated: 2026-10-16 · Depom Ltd
