Misplacing a digital driver card is more common than most operators like to admit. The key point is that losing a card does not automatically stop work, but only if the situation is handled correctly.

A typical example is a driver turning up for a shift and realising their tachograph driver card is missing. Some businesses assume the vehicle must be stood down immediately, while others believe handwritten records will suffice. In reality, the rules are clear and quite strict, and it’s important that operators understand them before allowing any driving to take place.

Driving without a tachograph driver card is permitted only when the card has been lost, stolen, damaged, or is malfunctioning. It is not permitted if the card has simply been forgotten or has expired. In those cases, the driver must return to collect a valid card before starting work, as manual records are not an acceptable alternative.

Where a driver's card has genuinely been lost or has failed, driving may continue for a maximum of 15 calendar days without the card. The issue must be reported to the DVLA immediately, and an application for a driver card replacement must be made within 7 calendar days. Operators should retain evidence that the replacement has been ordered.

During this period, accurate records are essential. The driver must produce two tachograph printouts per day, one at the start of the shift and one at the end. Each printout must be completed manually with the driver’s name, driving licence number or card number, details of all driving, other work, availability, breaks and rest, the country where the shift started and ended, and a signature. These records must be kept with other tachograph data and may be requested by the DVSA during checks.

Good operators prepare for these situations in advance. Drivers should know exactly what to do if their card is lost, who to notify, and how to complete printouts correctly. Keeping a simple written procedure and briefing drivers regularly can prevent confusion and protect the operator’s compliance position. From an enforcement point of view, it’s not the missing card that matters most, it’s whether the operator remained in control.

A lost digital driver card does not need to derail your operation, but it does require prompt action, clear procedures, and proper record keeping. Having guidance in place before the issue arises makes all the difference.

Hauliers Hub members get access to driver briefings, compliance guides, and practical templates to help manage situations like this with confidence.

Join Hauliers Hub today and stay in control of your driver card compliance.