Fatigue Management Exemptions

Advanced Fatigue Management (AFM) is currently the only available mechanism under the Heavy Vehicle National Law (HVNL) that can provide operators with tailored work and rest hours.

Fatigue management exemptions (permits and notices) allow operators and drivers to use alternative methods to manage their work and rest hours, work diaries and record-keeping obligations.

If drivers cannot reasonably work under legislated fatigue management requirements, an exemption provides a helpful way to comply with the objectives of the HVNL and maintain road safety standards in a way that meets specific needs.

To be eligible for a fatigue management exemption, applicants must meet strict approval criteria and provide all requested supporting information in the application.

Fatigue management exemption by permit

Managing driver fatigue is crucial for compliance with the HVNL and ensuring road safety. Managing fatigue work and rest hours, work diaries and record-keeping can be challenging for some heavy vehicle operators, who may apply for exemptions under specific conditions.
 
To apply for these exemptions, applicants must follow designated procedures, complete the necessary forms, and submit all required information to the NHVR via email or post. Exemption permits can be amended or cancelled as needed, and lost permits require a statutory declaration for replacement.

Fatigue record-keeping exemption

Fatigue record keeping is essential for managing driver fatigue, meeting Chain of Responsibility (CoR) requirements, and monitoring drivers’ activities. For some fatigue-regulated heavy vehicle operators, the HVNL record-keeping requirements can be very difficult to comply with and maintain. In such cases, operators can apply for a fatigue record-keeping exemption permit. 

Work and rest hours exemption

The HVNL sets out maximum work time limits and minimum rest time limits to prevent drivers from becoming impaired by fatigue or breaching road transport fatigue laws. Some fatigue-regulated heavy vehicle operators may have operational demands that reach beyond HVNL limits. In such cases, a work and rest hours exemption (permit) can be granted to allow greater flexibility.

To meet the detailed eligibility requirements of this permit, applicants must demonstrate that Advanced Fatigue Management (AFM) or Basic Fatigue Management (BFM) limits don’t suit their operational needs and complete a robust application process. 

Work diary exemption

The National Driver Work Diary (also known as a log book) is used by drivers as evidence that their work and rest hours are compliant with the HVNL and that their fatigue is being managed. However, some drivers may have a reading, writing or numeracy impairment that makes using a work diary very difficult. In these cases, the drivers (or an operator acting on their behalf) may apply for a work diary exemption permit.

This exemption allows the driver or operator to suggest an alternative way to record work and rest details which can be transcribed into a work diary by a nominated person (scribe).

Submitting an application

Completed forms can be submitted via:
Email: [email protected]
Post:
Fatigue management
National Heavy Vehicle Regulator
PO Box 492
Fortitude Valley QLD 4006

To discuss your industry needs, email the Fatigue management team

Refer to Heavy Vehicle Victoria Police (Special Operations Group) Work Diary and Record Keeping Exemption 2026 (No.1) which commenced on 15 February 2026 and expires on 14 September 2028.

This notice and more information can be accessed on the NHVR website

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