Fines for Tachograph Violations in Ukraine and the European Union

Failure to comply with driver work and rest time regulations is not just a technical violation — it poses a real threat to the safety of all road users. A tired driver loses focus, reacts more slowly, and risks making fatal mistakes. That’s why tachographs — devices that record driving time, stops, breaks, and speed — play a crucial role in transport logistics. They help ensure compliance with regulations, reduce risks, and prevent accidents.

Adhering to standardized rules for driver work and rest periods is mandatory in EU countries and for participants of the European AETR Agreement. This establishes a unified control system for international carriers and ensures fair competition in the logistics market.

Legal Framework and Regulatory Documents

One of the most common questions is whether a tachograph is required for domestic transport. The answer depends on the vehicle’s weight and type, as well as the current laws in the country.

In Ukraine, the main documents regulating the use of tachographs are:

• Cabinet Resolution No. 914 — sets rules for tachograph use in international transport and regulates driver work/rest periods in line with AETR.
  
• Cabinet Resolution No. 51 — governs working hours and rest periods according to the ILO Convention of 1979.
  
• Order No. 226 of the Ministry of Infrastructure of Ukraine — defines the procedure for registering organizations authorized to install and maintain tachographs.
  

In May 2025, the Ministry for Communities and Territories Development approved an updated procedure for using smart tachographs in Ukraine. The order outlines the format and samples of tachograph cards and allows applications to be submitted online. Drivers with a category B license can also receive a tachograph card under current laws.

These regulations form the legal basis for the certification and use of tachographs in Ukraine and establish procedures for inspections and liability for violations.

Common Tachograph Violations

Frequent violations that can result in fines include:

• Operating a vehicle without a required tachograph.
  
• Using a defective, uncalibrated, or uncertified tachograph.
  
• Operating without a driver card or using another driver’s card.
  
• Exceeding the maximum allowed continuous driving time without mandatory breaks.

These violations not only endanger safety but may indicate systemic non-compliance, raising serious concerns about the carrier.

Fines in Ukraine

Ukrainian law provides for administrative liability for tachograph-related violations:

• Exceeding driving time without a break — UAH 1,700 to 2,040.
  
• Absence of a tachograph or driver card — UAH 2,550 to 5,100 (among the most common fines).
  
• Data manipulation or using another person’s card — up to UAH 34,000.
  

The National Police and Ukrtransbezpeka are responsible for enforcement. They can stop vehicles, conduct inspections, and impose fines. In practice, drivers often face roadside checks, where even minor mistakes can result in costly penalties. To check for fines in EU countries, it’s recommended to use official online services provided by government agencies.

Fines in the European Union

The EU imposes stricter regulations and significantly higher fines. Typical penalties by country:

France and Germany are especially strict with repeat offenders, with criminal liability possible in cases of systemic or intentional violations. For this reason, carriers must closely monitor compliance with regulations.

Roadside Inspections

Inspections may occur at stationary checkpoints or en route. Inspectors typically check:

• The driver card;
  
• Printouts from the tachograph;
  
• The device’s calibration certificate;
  
• Transport documents.
  

EU inspectors have broad powers, including taking a vehicle off the road until violations are corrected. Ukraine has a more lenient approach, but fines remain significant. Knowing your responsibilities helps avoid serious consequences.

Legal Consequences and Appeals

If fined or stopped, the carrier has the right to appeal. In Ukraine, this can be done in court or through a higher authority. In the EU, appeals are more complex and often require a transport law attorney.

An appeal may be justified when:

• The violation was due to a technical error;
  
• The inspector exceeded their authority;
  
• There is a lack of evidence.
  

However, appeals require time, money, and legal expertise, so prevention is the best strategy. Following tachograph rules in Ukraine helps reduce risks and avoid legal trouble.

Recommendations to Avoid Fines

• Learn how to use the tachograph properly before the trip.
  
• Plan routes to include sufficient rest breaks.
  
• Download and archive data regularly to ensure transparency and compliance.
  
• Train drivers regularly on proper tachograph use.
  
• Work with a reliable logistics partner to stay within legal limits.

Benefits of Working with a Professional Logistics Partner

ES-TRANS provides domestic and international transport services in full compliance with regulations. Key advantages of working with ETS:

• Use of modern, certified equipment and regular maintenance.
  
• Constant monitoring of driver work/rest periods per EU and Ukrainian laws.
  
• Legal support during inspections to avoid tachograph-related fines.
  
• Driver training in current rules and requirements.
  
• Customized logistics solutions that reduce costs and improve efficiency.
  
• 24/7 support for safe, timely delivery at every stage of transport.
  

Compliance is not just a legal requirement — it’s a mark of responsible logistics. It safeguards safety, reputation, and financial stability. Ignoring the rules can be costly in more ways than one.