The DDD file (.ddd) is the standardized European format for storing digital tachograph data. These are binary files containing encrypted records of driver activity and vehicle performance. Under EU law, specifically Regulation (EU) 165/2014, these files are the only valid proof of compliance during labor inspections and roadside checks.
Unlike standard documents, a DDD file is not human-readable in its raw form. It is a secure container with a digital signature that ensures the data has not been altered since it was downloaded from the driver card or the vehicle unit (VU).
What's Inside a DDD File?
Depending on the source (Driver Card or Vehicle Unit), the .ddd file stores different blocks of critical information:
Driver Activity Data
- Driving hours and work shifts.
- Daily and weekly rest periods.
- Country entries and border crossings.
- Vehicle registration numbers used by the driver.
Vehicle Technical Data
- Over-speeding events and sensor faults.
- Power supply interruptions and manipulation attempts.
- Detailed speed data for the last 24 hours of driving.
- Calibration and workshop inspection records.
Technical Specifications and Variations
While the industry refers to them generally as "DDD files," different countries and download tools may use different extensions for the same data structure. You might encounter:
- .C1B / .TGD: Common extensions for Driver Card downloads.
- .V1B / .DDD: Common extensions for Vehicle Unit (VU) data.
- Smart Tachograph Gen2: Newer files include GNSS (location) data every 3 hours of accumulated driving.
How to Open and Read DDD Files
Because these files are encrypted for security, you cannot open them with Notepad, Excel, or PDF readers. To access the information, you need a Tachograph File Viewer or a professional analysis platform.
The TachoTools Advantage
Using TachoTools, you can upload any .ddd file and instantly convert the raw hex data into clear, actionable reports. Our engine verifies the digital signature to ensure the file is valid for official inspections.
Read our Step-by-Step GuideCommon Management Risks
Failing to properly manage your DDD archive is a primary cause for tachograph infringements. Ensure you avoid these common pitfalls:
| Risk Factor | Potential Penalty |
|---|---|
| Corrupt DDD files | Invalid proof of rest; treated as missing data. |
| Missed download deadlines | Fines per driver/vehicle per day exceeded. |
| Lack of analysis | Undetected accumulated excesses leads to VSI sanctions. |
Automate Your Compliance Workflow
Modern fleet management relies on the automatic analysis of DDD files. Instead of just storing files to satisfy a legal requirement, use that data to:
- Anticipate driver fatigue and prevent accidents.
- Calculate driver per diems accurately.
- Monitor your rest and shift dashboard in real-time.
Validate Your DDD Files Now
Is your file signature valid? Are there missing periods in your records? Upload your file to our secure analyzer and find out in seconds.
Upload and Analyze .DDDSupports: .ddd | .tgd | .v1b | .c1b