What is the maximum cumulative driving time for a driver within 24 hours?
2 Answers
Drivers must not exceed 8 hours of cumulative driving time within a 24-hour period. Below are relevant details: 1. Driving time regulations: Road passenger transport enterprises must strictly require that passenger vehicle drivers do not exceed 8 hours of cumulative driving time within 24 hours (which can be extended by 2 hours under special circumstances, but the total extended time per month must not exceed 36 hours). Continuous driving time must not exceed 4 hours, and each rest break must be at least 20 minutes. 2. Driving requirements: For passenger vehicles operating on single trips exceeding 400 kilometers (or 600 kilometers for direct highway passenger transport), two or more drivers must be assigned. For long-distance passenger vehicles, it is essential to ensure drivers switch shifts and take adequate rest breaks. For long-distance sleeper buses, schedules should be reasonably arranged to minimize nighttime driving time.
I've been driving long-haul trucks for decades and have witnessed the consequences of overtime driving firsthand. According to regulations, the cumulative driving time in 24 hours must not exceed 8 hours, and after 4 hours of continuous driving, a mandatory rest of at least 20 minutes is required. Once you exceed the time limit, it's easy to become drowsy and slow to react. When I was younger, I drove two extra hours to make up time and nearly got into an accident. Now, I plan my trips carefully and stop to walk around every two or three hours. Fatigue driving is not only a violation but also endangers yourself and other road users. Remember, safety is more important than time—don't risk your life just to save a few minutes. This rule applies to professional drivers like truck and bus drivers, and it's also recommended for private car owners.
