Tachograph Analysis Service
for Irish Fleets

We offer haulage and coach companies tachograph analysis using the Optac3 analysis software. Our aim is to keep your drivers legal and compliant with the Driver’s Hours Legislation and the Working time Directive.

Understanding Tachograph Analysis

Every vehicle fitted with a tachograph generates a continuous record of driver activity, hours worked, rest periods, and vehicle movement. Tachograph analysis is the process of downloading that data and checking it against the rules that govern how your drivers must operate.
In Ireland, those rules are set out under EC Regulation 561/2006 (drivers’ hours) and the Working Time Directive (2002/15/EC).

The Road Safety Authority (RSA) enforces compliance through roadside checks and operator premises inspections. Analysis is not optional. Operators are legally required to download, retain, and review tachograph data at regular intervals. Failing to do so – or failing to act on infringements identified – puts your operator licence at risk.

How Our Analysis Service Works

We can handle the full process on your behalf – from data collection through to actionable compliance reports.

Data Collection

Tachograph data is downloaded from driver cards and vehicle units – either on-site or via remote download.

Analysis & Checking

Your data is processed through Optac3 and checked against EU drivers’ hours rules and Working Time Directive.

Clear Reporting

You receive reports showing driver and vehicle activity, mileage summary, drivers hours and rest times, events and faults and all flagged infringements.

Ongoing Support

Our compliance specialists are available to answer questions about your reports and advise on corrective action where needed.

Choose The Correct Package For Your Fleet

Have ETS manage your account on an ongoing basis, or receive comprehensive software training, and transition to a self-managed account when you’re ready. All services are provided on a no-contract basis.

Managed Analysis Service

You receive clear reports without managing the process yourself. Everything is handled by our team in Waterford.

Best for: Operators who want analysis handled end-to-end

Self-Managed Software

Your team uses Optac3 in-house with access to 40+ report types and full data control.

Best for: In-house transport or compliance teams who want direct access

What Your Analysis Covers

Our analysis software checks your tachograph data against compliance requirements that EU enforcement officers inspect.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is tachograph analysis a legal requirement for Irish operators?

Irish transport operators subject to EU drivers’ hours rules are required to download, retain, and review tachograph data on a regular basis. This obligation falls under EC Regulation 165/2014, which sets out the rules governing tachograph use, and EC Regulation 561/2006, which governs drivers’ hours. The RSA can request tachograph records during a roadside check or premises inspection. Operators who cannot demonstrate that data is being actively downloaded, analysed, and acted upon face greater risk during enforcement activity.

How often must tachograph data be downloaded and analysed?

Under EU regulations, driver card data must be downloaded at least every 28 days and vehicle unit data at least every 90 days. These are the minimum legal intervals – many operators download more frequently to maintain tighter oversight and identify issues earlier. ETS can advise on a download and analysis schedule appropriate for your fleet size and operational risk profile.

What does the RSA look for during a tachograph inspection?

During a premises inspection, RSA officers will typically review whether tachograph data is being downloaded at the required intervals, whether infringements are being identified and recorded, and whether the operator can demonstrate they are taking appropriate action in response. Having a clear, consistent record of regular analysis – carried out by a specialist like ETS – supports a stronger compliance position. Operators who cannot produce this evidence are at greater risk of enforcement action or licence review.

What happens when infringements are identified in analysis?

Identifying an infringement is the first step in managing it. ETS reports describe each infringement clearly — including its category, severity, and the specific rule it relates to. You can then address it through direct communication with the driver, additional training, or a review of scheduling and operational practices. Identifying infringements and responding to them in a documented, consistent way is itself a positive compliance indicator. It demonstrates to the RSA that your operation is actively managed.

What is the difference between a managed bureau service and self-managed software?

With ETS’s managed service, we carry out the analysis on your behalf. The download data is run through Optac3, identify infringements, and deliver reports directly to you. You receive the outputs without managing the process yourself. With Optac3 self-managed software, your team has direct access to the platform and carries out analysis in-house, with ETS providing support. The right model depends on your fleet size, internal resource, and how much oversight you want to maintain directly. ETS can help you assess which approach suits your operation.

What is a smart tachograph and does it change my compliance obligations?

Smart tachographs are the latest generation of tachograph, required on all newly registered vehicles in scope since June 2019. A smart 2 tachograph is required on newly registered vehicles since August 2023. They record the same data as earlier digital tachographs but with enhanced features including automatic location recording and improved remote communication capability. The core compliance obligations – downloading data, analysing it against drivers’ hours rules, and retaining records – remain the same regardless of tachograph generation. ETS’s analysis service covers all current tachograph types including smart tachograph versions.

Ready to Get Your Tachograph Analysis in Order?

Whether you currently use a third-party service, manage analysis in-house, or are starting from scratch – Euro Tachograph Solutions can review your current approach and explain what a managed analysis service would involve for your fleet. No obligation. Just a straightforward conversation with a compliance specialist.

Tachograph Analysis Service for Irish Fleets