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Single break
At least 45 uninterrupted minutes after no more than 4 hours 30 minutes driving.
HGV driving break rules
Take a qualifying break before exceeding 4 hours 30 minutes driving
Under assimilated rules, a driver must take qualifying break time after no more than 4 hours 30 minutes accumulated driving unless a daily or weekly rest begins.
Reviewed July 2026Checked against current GOV.UK and DVSA guidance available at publication.
General guidanceNot a substitute for legislation, official instructions or competent advice.
Professional responsibilityDrivers and operators remain responsible for lawful and safe operation.
Key points
Use these summaries to understand the topic, then verify the exact rules against the vehicle, journey and official guidance.
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Split break
At least 15 minutes followed by at least 30 minutes, in that sequence.
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Correct recording
The activity must be recorded accurately and genuinely meet the definition of break.
Not every period without driving is a break
Loading, unloading, paperwork, vehicle checks and other work do not qualify as break. A period of availability is also not automatically a qualifying break. The driver must be able to use the break exclusively for recuperation.
After a qualifying 45-minute break, or qualifying 15-minute then 30-minute split, a new driving period begins for this rule.
Working-time breaks are separate
The road-transport working-time rules also restrict how long a mobile worker may work without a break. A break may satisfy more than one requirement only where it independently meets every applicable definition and duration.
Official sourcesExternal guidance may be amended. Check the source date and updates before relying on it.
Continue through the Knowledge Centre
Related guidance is linked so drivers and operators can keep separate legal concepts in context.
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