How often should I take breaks when driving?

The UK Highway Code (Rule 91) recommends taking a minimum 15-minute break for every 2 hours of driving. The Driving Standards Agency suggests never driving for more than 2 hours without a rest. Tiredness is estimated to be a factor in around 20% of motorway accidents.

What are the signs of driver fatigue?

Warning signs include: frequent yawning, heavy eyelids, difficulty concentrating, drifting in lane, increased errors, difficulty remembering the last few miles driven, and feeling restless or irritable. If you experience any of these, stop as soon as it is safe to do so.

What should I do during a rest stop?

Get out of the car and walk around, have a drink (caffeine can help short-term), eat a light snack, use the toilet, and stretch. Avoid heavy meals as they can make you drowsy. If you feel very tired, a 15-20 minute nap in a safe location can be very effective.

Are there rules for professional drivers?

Yes, HGV and PSV drivers in the UK must follow EU/UK drivers' hours regulations: maximum 4.5 hours driving before a 45-minute break (which can be split into 15 + 30 minutes), maximum 9 hours driving per day (extendable to 10 hours twice a week), and minimum 11 hours daily rest.

Where are the best rest stop locations?

Motorway service areas are available every 30 miles or so on UK motorways. Alternatively, plan stops at towns just off the motorway for cheaper food and fuel. Avoid stopping on hard shoulders except in emergencies. Many A-roads have layby rest areas and cafes.

CarCalcs

Rest Stop Calculator — Break Planning for Long Drives

Plan your rest stops for long journeys based on UK Highway Code guidelines.

Journey Distance

Average Speed

Break Duration

Break Interval

Departure Hour (24h)

How We Calculate This

How Rest Stops Are Planned

This calculator follows the Highway Code recommendation:

Calculate total driving time: Distance / Average Speed
Schedule a rest stop every 2 hours (adjustable)
Add break duration (default 15 minutes) per stop
Calculate total journey time: Driving time + Rest time

Highway Code Rule 91

"Driving when you are tired greatly increases your risk of a collision. To minimise this risk... plan your journey to take sufficient breaks. A minimum break of at least 15 minutes after every 2 hours of driving is recommended."

Frequently Asked Questions

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Last updated: February 2026

All calculations are estimates. Actual figures may vary based on driving conditions, vehicle specifications, and other factors.