Ensuring compliance with regulations and being prepared for inspections or emergencies is a critical part of a driver's role. Below is a comprehensive guide to the documents drivers should carry, categorised for various scenarios:
Essential Documents for All Drivers
1. Tachograph Records
- Current day's records and those from the previous 28 days.
2. Driving Licence
- Evidence of the driver's UK address.
3. Consignment Note
- Details of goods being transported.
4. Prescription Copy (if applicable)
- For any prescribed medication being taken.
5. Delivery Note
- Proof of delivery details.
6. Weight Ticket (if applicable)
- Documentation if the vehicle and load have been weighed.
7. Letter of Attestation
- If the driver needs to confirm their work status or explain gaps in tachograph records.
8. Driver Certificate of Professional Competence (DQC) Card
- Proof of the driver's professional qualifications.
Additional Items for Livestock Transport
1. Route Plan (if applicable)
- Details of the intended journey.
2. Transport Certificate (if applicable)
- Evidence of compliance with animal welfare regulations.
3. Movement Document (for Sheep and Goats)
- Required documentation for the movement of specific livestock.
Additional Items for Carriage of Dangerous Goods
1. Information Provided by the Consignor
- Details about the hazardous substances being transported.
2. Weight or Volume Statement
- Specifies the load's weight or volume.
3. Instructions in Writing
- Safety and handling instructions specific to the substances carried.
Additional Items for International Haulage
1. International Driving Permit (if applicable)
- Required for some countries outside the UK.
2. Vehicle Registration Document
- Proof of vehicle ownership and registration.
3. Written Authorisation (if applicable)
- Permission to use the vehicle if the driver is not the owner.
4. CMR Consignment Note
- Document for international road transport of goods.
5. Delivery Note
- Confirmation of delivery details.
6. Passport and Visas (if necessary)
- Identification and travel permissions.
7. Community Authorisation
- Required for international haulage in EU countries.
8. Community Transit Guarantee Voucher (if applicable)
- For customs transit in the EU.
9. Permits (if applicable)
- Bilateral, multilateral, or other necessary permits for specific regions.
10. TIR Carnet (if applicable)
- For goods transported under the TIR customs transit system.
11. ATA Carnet (if applicable)
- For temporary export of goods.
12. Carnet de Passage en Douane (if applicable)
- For vehicles temporarily imported into certain countries.
13. Insurance Green Card
- Proof of motor insurance for travel abroad.
Carrying the correct documentation ensures compliance with legal requirements, minimises delays, and helps maintain professional standards. For drivers operating in specialised fields like livestock transport, dangerous goods, or international haulage, keeping the appropriate additional documents is essential.
Being well-prepared helps build trust with clients and authorities, demonstrating a commitment to safety and professionalism.
