In the transport industry, every form of financial support counts – especially when new technical requirements must be implemented. Good news for transport operators: it is now possible to refinance the purchase of new second-generation smart tachographs under the EU’s de minimis public aid program. This means that the cost of equipping your fleet with modern tachographs can be significantly reduced.

What does this mean in practice?

• De minimis aid may be granted to a road transport operator for equipping an eligible vehicle with a smart tachograph.
• The total value of de minimis aid for one beneficiary — together with other de minimis support received within three years — cannot exceed EUR 300,000.
• In the first round of funding, support applies to a maximum of 10 vehicles listed under the community licence.
• The maximum subsidy per vehicle is PLN 3,000.
• The program covers vehicles equipped with compliant smart tachographs, and applications can be submitted until 31 August 2026.

Who can apply for the funding?

Eligible applicants include road transport companies that perform commercial road transport in accordance with the Polish Road Transport Act and meet the definition of a single enterprise (including cases of group ownership or control).

Originally, smaller companies (up to 10 vehicles) were prioritised, but this requirement has now been removed — meaning companies of all sizes may apply.

How to prepare your application – key elements

To apply for the funding, you need to prepare an application including:

• Carrier details: company name, address, tax ID (NIP), REGON, community licence number, vehicle registration number, smart tachograph number, bank account number, and representative’s contact information.
• Details of the installer or workshop that fitted the tachograph.
• A declaration confirming that the vehicle has been equipped with a compliant smart tachograph.

You must also attach the following documents:

• Proof that the vehicle has been equipped with a smart tachograph.
• Technical data printout from the tachograph (in the required format).
• Copies of certificates or declarations related to public aid.

Why consider applying for this aid?

Equipping vehicles with second-generation smart tachographs represents a real cost — not only for the device itself, but also for installation, possible vehicle adaptation, and technical documentation.

Obtaining de minimis funding helps reduce financial burdens, which is particularly beneficial during low-demand seasons or for smaller fleets with limited budgets.

Taking part in such a program also strengthens your company’s image — showing that your business is compliant, modern, and aligned with EU transport regulations. This can positively influence clients and business partners.

At the same time, it’s a good opportunity to organise your administrative procedures, documentation, and tachograph installations — helping streamline both the application and future inspections.

Practical tips for transport operators

• Verify that your company holds a valid community licence and that your vehicles are properly registered — this is required to participate in the program.
• Collect all installation documentation: invoices, installation confirmations, and technical printouts from the tachographs — this will speed up the application process.
• Pay attention to deadlines: each call for applications will be announced at least 14 days in advance. Prepare early to avoid missing your chance.
• If in doubt, consult a public aid advisor or a company specialising in transport support programs to ensure your application is correctly completed.

Summary

If your transport company has already equipped its fleet with second-generation smart tachographs, the de minimis refinancing program offers a valuable opportunity to reduce investment costs.

Although the support does not cover the full expense (up to PLN 3,000 per vehicle in the first round), it can significantly ease your budget and help you implement the required solutions faster.

With well-organised documentation and proper preparation, the process can be completed efficiently and effectively — helping your company stay compliant and competitive in the European transport market.