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CabLog / Driver Guides / WTD breaks

Working-time breaks

HGV WTD break rules.

Understand which break total applies to the day’s working time.

Published and reviewed 22 July 2026Checked against official guidance6-minute read
The short answerMobile workers must not work more than six consecutive hours without a break. Daily working time of six to nine hours requires at least 30 minutes of breaks; more than nine hours requires at least 45 minutes.

The WTD break thresholds

  • Up to six hours of working time: take a break before exceeding six consecutive hours.
  • Six to nine hours: at least 30 minutes total.
  • More than nine hours: at least 45 minutes total.

Can WTD breaks be split?

Yes. The required break can be divided into periods of at least 15 minutes. Accurate activity records matter.

WTD breaks and tachograph driving breaks

These are separate legal tests. One recorded break may satisfy both when it meets both sets of conditions, but drivers must check driving time as well as total working time.

Common questions

Is a 15-minute break enough?

A 15-minute period may form part of the required total, but whether more break is due depends on daily and consecutive working time and driving time.

Does lunch always count as a break?

Only when the worker performs no work and can use the time as a genuine break.

Official source

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

Related guides

Keep the working week in one place.

CabLog helps UK HGV drivers record shifts, estimated pay, mileage, expenses and working-week totals.

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