How do you insert the card into the tachograph so that data is recorded correctly? Many new drivers starting out in the transport industry face this dilemma. Using a driver card for the first time need not be a challenge, however. Just learn the basics of using this document to avoid data recording errors that can result in penalties in the event of an inspection.
If you are looking for clear instructions on how to insert a card into a tachograph, read on. In this article we explain, among other things, how the driver card is inserted, what to watch out for while doing so, and how to remove the card from the tachograph once work is finished.
Why is inserting the driver card into the tachograph correctly so important?
What makes knowing how to insert the card into the tachograph so important? Every professional driver who drives a vehicle with a digital tachograph is obliged to record their activity using a driver card. Inserting the card incorrectly can have unwanted consequences.
- Inserting the card into the tachograph incorrectly may mean the device cannot recognise and read it. This will prevent the driver's working time data from being recorded as intended.
- Understanding how to insert the driver card into the tacho helps avoid the risk of damaging the card or the device itself.
- As mentioned, inserting the driver card into the tachograph incorrectly will prevent the data from being recorded correctly. This in turn carries the risk of penalties from the inspecting authority. This applies to both the driver and the haulier.
The good news? Logging the card in to a digital tachograph is relatively simple – you just need to know a few rules and avoid the most common mistakes.
When do we insert the card into the tachograph?
Inserting the card into the tachograph is a mandatory step the driver must take every time before starting to drive. Between the start and end of driving, the card should remain in the tachograph. Once work is finished, the driver card must be removed from the device and taken with you.
How to insert the card into a digital tachograph?
Wondering how to use a digital tachograph card for the first time? Here are universal step-by-step instructions that will work for most digital tachographs, e.g. VDO, Stoneridge or Continental. Note that there may be differences between individual models – so read the user manual before you start using a given tacho. The tips below are nonetheless a useful starting point for mastering the technique of inserting the card into the tachograph and using it from then on.
Step 1: Switch on the tachograph
How do you prepare for inserting the card into the tachograph for the first time? First, switch on the device. Usually the tachograph activates automatically when the key in the ignition is turned to the "ignition on" position. In ADR versions the engine must be started. After turning the key, make sure the device is working and the display is active.
Step 2: Find the right slot
Time to consider where to insert the driver card into the tachograph. There are usually two card slots:
- Slot 1 for the driver,
- Slot 2 for the second driver or an inspector.
The main driver always inserts the card into Slot 1 (the left-hand slot). For models with a slot protected by a flap, inserting the driver card into the tachograph requires briefly pressing the dedicated button.
Step 3: Check the card orientation
How do you insert the driver card into the tachograph so that the device can recognise it? Look at how your card is positioned.
- The card chip (the gold rectangle) must face up and forward (towards the tachograph). Before placing the driver card in the tachograph, look at the arrow printed on the card – it shows the correct direction for inserting the card into the device.
- For the first login of the card to the tachograph to succeed, it should be clean and undamaged. Dirt or damage to the card may prevent it from being read correctly.
Step 4: Insert the card slowly and firmly
Those wondering how to use a driver card for the first time must remember not to rush. Before logging the card in to the digital tachograph, make sure the device has displayed a message that it is ready for the card to be inserted. When it does, push the card in until it locks. After inserting the card into the tachograph, the driver must wait for the card data to start being read automatically and for questions to appear on the display.
Step 5: Confirm the data on the display
What do you do after inserting the card into the tachograph? This is the stage of navigating the menu and answering a few questions. What does the tachograph usually ask the driver?
- "Do you want to add activities since the card was last removed?"
- "In which country are you starting work?"
To complete the login of the card to the digital tachograph correctly, use the function buttons to select the appropriate answers and confirm.
Placing the driver card in the tachograph – which mistakes to watch out for?
When learning how to insert the driver card into the tachograph, it is also worth noting the common mistakes to avoid. This will help prevent infringements that may be penalised by the enforcement authorities. These mistakes include:
- choosing the wrong slot (Slot 2 instead of 1) when inserting the driver card into the tachograph,
- incorrect chip orientation,
- using a dirty or damaged card,
- forcing the card in – this can damage the mechanism,
- not confirming the data after insertion – the data will not be saved.
Being aware of these incorrect behaviours makes it easier to understand how to insert the card into the tachograph to get the expected result.
How to remove the driver card from the tachograph?
Just as important as inserting it is removing the card from the tachograph correctly once work is finished. This is key to recording the data properly. How do you remove the card from a digital tachograph the right way?
- Press the "Eject" button (usually marked with the ⏏️ symbol).
- Wait for the card to be ejected – do not pull it out by force beforehand.
- Check on the display that the data has been saved. Keep the card in a holder – it protects against scratches and dirt.
The method for removing the card from the tachograph correctly is therefore very simple. The key is to avoid forcing it and to check that the data has been saved.
How to insert a card into a tachograph? Summary
You now know not only how to insert the card into the tacho, but also how to remove it. These are uncomplicated steps that nevertheless require care and attention. Following the correct procedures for inserting and removing the driver card at the start and end of the day on the digital tachograph ensures correct data reading, compliance with the rules and no problems during inspections.
A quick reminder:
- Slot 1 = driver,
- chip up and forward,
- confirm the data after inserting the card.
Want to learn more about the correct use of driver cards and tachographs? We encourage you to read other articles on our blog:
- A new era of tachographs: replacement, key deadlines and the most important changes
- How to streamline the settlement of drivers' working time? A guide to remote tachograph data download
- Tachographs in vans – what you need to know about the new rules
Agata Świerczek
E-marketing Specialist
As a UX/UI design specialist I combine creativity with precise communication. I design intuitive interfaces and engaging digital content, and I write product copy and blog articles that hold attention and support business goals.
