Introduction
Under the Heavy Vehicle National Law, drivers of fatigue-regulated heavy vehicles must complete and carry a National Driver Work Diary, also known as a log book.
Fatigue-regulated vehicles are:
- vehicles or vehicle combinations weighing more than 12 tonnes
- buses of more than 4.5 tonnes, fitted to carry more than 12 adults including the driver.
The work diary is evidence that drivers are complying with:
- the standard hours limits for work and rest
- keeping appropriate records
- managing fatigue.
You can buy a National Driver Work Diary at a Service NSW Centre.
Note: Electronic work diaries are also available.
Eligibility
The fatigue laws relating to work diaries apply in NSW, Queensland, Victoria, Tasmania, and South Australia. As drivers of heavy vehicles located in the ACT regularly drive interstate, the work diary regulations apply as per the other jurisdictions.
If you're operating in Western Australia or the Northern Territory, you don't have to use a work diary unless you leave the state or territory.
What you need
- your personal details
- your driving licence
- your previous log book or its security number (if applicable)
- 2 completed National Driver Work Diary application forms (original and duplicate) at the front of the work diary
- your payment.
How to apply
- Visit a service centre.
- Complete the original and duplicate application forms in the presence of the issuing officer.
- Buy your work diary.
More information
- In certain circumstances operators may apply for a work diary exemption.
- If your work diary is lost, stolen or destroyed, you must notify the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) within 2 business days. You can use a Supplementary work diary record – PDF for up to 7 business days until you buy a new diary.
- If your stay in Western Australia or the Northern Territory is:
- less than 7 days, you should fill out your work diary for the entire period
- more than 7 days, you must use your diary when leaving WA from at least the last major rest break before you crossed the border.
- If you live outside NSW, check the NHVR's website to find where you can buy a work diary.
- A motorhome is not a fatigue-regulated heavy vehicle.