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CabLog / Driver Guides / weekly rest compensation

Weekly rest

HGV weekly rest compensation explained.

A reduced weekly rest creates a shortfall that must be compensated correctly.

Published and reviewed 22 July 2026Checked against official guidance6-minute read
The short answerWhen a weekly rest is reduced below 45 hours, the reduction must generally be compensated by an equivalent period of rest taken en bloc before the end of the third week following the week in question.

What is reduced weekly rest?

A regular weekly rest is at least 45 hours. Subject to the applicable rules, it may be reduced to at least 24 consecutive hours, creating a shortfall against 45 hours.

How is compensation calculated?

Subtract the reduced rest taken from 45 hours. For example, a 30-hour weekly rest creates 15 hours of compensation.

How must compensation be taken?

The compensation is taken as one continuous block and attached to another rest period of at least nine hours. It must be completed by the applicable deadline.

Common questions

Can weekly-rest compensation be split?

The compensating rest is generally taken en bloc rather than split.

Does reduced daily rest require compensation?

Under the current assimilated rules, reduced daily rest does not create the same compensation requirement as reduced weekly rest.

Can regular weekly rest be taken in the cab?

Regular weekly rest and compensatory weekly rest of more than 45 hours must not be taken in the vehicle.

Official source

Checked against the DVSA’s Drivers’ hours and tachographs: goods vehicles. Rules, agreements, exemptions and individual circumstances can change which requirements apply.

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