HMS Cards Become Mandatory in the Van Transport Sector from 1 January 2026

A major regulatory change is coming to Norway’s van transport industry. Starting 1 January 2026, all individuals who transport goods on behalf of others using a van will be required to carry a valid and visible HMS card while performing their duties.

Authorities emphasize that businesses must begin preparing now. The new requirement involves company registration, employee documentation, and ordering the cards ahead of the enforcement date. From 1 December 2025, companies in the van transport sector can begin ordering HMS cards for their employees.

Who Does the Requirement Apply To?

The HMS card obligation covers:

– Drivers and assistants transporting goods for others
– Vans under 3.5 tonnes (or 4.25 tonnes for electric vans)
– Both employees and self-employed sole proprietors

The HMS card serves as proof of organizational affiliation and must be available for immediate inspection during controls. For companies, this means internal procedures and compliance systems must be in place before the new year.

Employer Responsibilities

Businesses must order HMS cards through an approved card issuer. To do so, the company must be registered in the Enhetsregisteret, and all employee information must be correctly reported.
Employers are responsible for ordering the cards, distributing them to the correct individuals and ensuring they are worn visibly during work and transport tasks.

A Step Toward a More Professional Industry

The introduction of HMS cards is part of a broader initiative to improve transparency and professionalism in the van transport sector.
By requiring visible identification, authorities aim to simplify inspections, strengthen accountability, and combat undeclared work and labor crime.

The HMS card requirement complements additional measures being introduced in 2026, including a minimum wage for van drivers and the new national van transport license.

Where to Order the HMS Card ?
More information about eligibility, requirements, and the ordering process can be found on Altinn.no.
The official website for ordering HSE cards is https://hmskort.no/