Regulations for professional drivers

Legal framework

The regulations for professional drivers are based on EU directives implemented in Norwegian law through the EEA Agreement. The central directive is 2003/59/EC on initial qualification and periodic training of drivers.

EU directives

These directives and regulations apply throughout the EU/EEA and ensure common minimum requirements for professional drivers.

Norwegian implementation

In Norway, EU regulations are implemented through several acts and regulations.

• The professional driver regulations set requirements for initial qualification and periodic training.
• The Road Traffic Act regulates driving licenses, traffic rules, and sanctions.
• The driving and rest time regulations implement EU Regulation 561/2006.
• The Working Environment Act regulates working hours and working conditions.

Professional driver regulations

The professional driver regulations are the most important rules for YSK competence.

Control and enforcement

Several authorities check that professional drivers meet the requirements.

• The Norwegian Public Roads Administration checks driving licenses, code 95, and driving and rest time at roadside inspections.
• The police can stop and inspect all professional drivers.
• The Norwegian Labour Inspection Authority supervises transport companies’ working conditions.
• The Norwegian Data Protection Authority monitors the use of tachograph data.

Sanctions

Upcoming changes

The EU regularly revises the regulations. Important developments include:

• Stricter requirements for emissions and use of alternative fuels.
• Expanded use of smart tachographs with automatic registration of border crossings.
• Possible changes in age requirements and training content.

Further reading

• Read about the YSK basic course for the training content.
• See YSK periodic training for renewal of competence.
• Read about driving and rest time in detail.
• Practice with a free theory test to test your knowledge.