Exemptions to driving times and rest periods extended

The Government has decided to extend the temporary exemptions to driving times and rest periods issued for heavy goods vehicles due to the coronavirus situation. The exemptions will remain in force until 31 May 2020.

The most important amendment to the exemption decree issued in March is that the daily driving time may not exceed 11 hours. The new decree on exemptions will enter into force on 26 April 2020.

According to the new temporary exemptions:

1) daily driving time may be no more than 11 hours;

2) weekly driving time may be no more than 60 hours;

3) driving time accumulated during two consecutive weeks may be no more than 120 hours;

4) daily rest period must be at least 9 hours each day;

5) weekly rest period may be shortened to at least 24 hours every other week without a compensatory rest period;

6) a 5.5 hours drive must be followed by a break of 45 minutes, which may be divided into a 30-minute break, which is to be taken first, and a 15-minute break;

7) regular weekly rest periods away from base may according to the driver's choice be taken in a vehicle, as long as it has suitable sleeping facilities for each driver and the vehicle is stationary.

The exemptions are valid for both national and international transport. The contents of the provisions that are to enter into force are practically the same as in the corresponding ones in Sweden.

Inquiries

Erik Asplund, Chief Specialist, tel +358 50 463 7034

Veli-Matti Syrjänen, Senior Specialist, tel +358 50 470 7708

Sini Wirén, Director of Unit, tel +358 40 507 0916