The first generation digital tachograph system has been deployed since 1 May 2006. It may be used until its end of life for domestic transportation. For international transportation, instead, 15 years after the entry into force of this Commission Regulation, all vehicles shall be equipped with a compliant second generation smart tachograph, introduced by this Regulation.

This Annex contains second generation recording equipment and tachograph cards requirements. Starting from its introduction date, second generation recording equipment shall be installed in vehicles registered for the first time, and second generation tachograph cards shall be issued.

In order to foster a smooth introduction of the second generation tachograph system:

• second generation tachograph cards shall be designed to be also used in first generation vehicle units,

• replacement of valid first generation tachograph cards at the introduction date shall not be requested.

This will allow drivers to keep their unique driver card and use both systems with it.

Second generation recording equipment shall however only be calibrated using second generation workshop cards.

This Annex contains all requirements related to the interoperability between the first and the second generation tachograph system.

Appendix 15 contains additional details about how the coexistence of the two systems shall be managed.