Losing a digital tachograph card can be stressful for both drivers and operators. Many operators are unsure what is legally permitted and what action must be taken immediately. The good news is that a lost tachograph card does not automatically stop a driver from working, provided the correct process is followed.

A typical situation is a driver arriving at work ready to start their shift, only to discover their digital tachograph card is missing. Some operators assume the vehicle must be parked until a replacement arrives, while others believe the driver can keep manual records. In reality, the rules sit somewhere in the middle and must be followed carefully to remain compliant.

Driving without a digital tachograph card is permitted only when the card has been lost, stolen, damaged, or is malfunctioning. It is not permitted if the card has been forgotten or has expired. In those cases, the driver must return to collect a valid card before driving. Manual records cannot be used as a substitute where a card has simply been left behind.

Where a card has genuinely been lost, stolen, damaged, or has failed, a driver may continue to drive for a maximum of 15 calendar days without the card. The loss or theft must be reported immediately to the DVLA, and an application for a digi card replacement must be made within 7 calendar days. Operators should keep evidence that the replacement card has been ordered.

During this period, strict record-keeping rules apply. The driver must produce two tachograph printouts each day, one at the start of the shift and one at the end. On the reverse of each printout, the driver must manually record their name, driving licence number or card number, all periods of driving, other work, availability, breaks and rest, the country where the shift started and ended, and sign each printout. These records must be retained alongside other tachograph data and may be requested by the DVSA during checks.

Best practice for operators dealing with a lost tacho card is to act immediately. Apply for a replacement card as soon as the issue is identified; ensure the driver understands how to complete printouts correctly; retain all records centrally; and monitor the 15-day allowance carefully. From an enforcement perspective, the key question is not whether the card was lost, but whether the operator had effective systems in place to manage the situation correctly.

A lost tachograph card does not need to disrupt your operation, but it does require prompt action, clear procedures, and good record keeping. Having clear guidance in place before an issue arises is one of the simplest ways to protect your compliance position.

If you need help with drivers’ hours management, driver briefings, or tachograph compliance systems, LDP Transport Consultancy can support you.

Get in touch today to ensure your operation stays compliant, even when things go wrong.