[Infographic] Is Your TRO Backlog Costing More Than You Think?

The clock is ticking on the move to Digital Traffic Regulation Orders (DTROs). A new law making DTROs mandatory was approved in 2024, and a deadline is on the horizon. Because of this, many local authorities are wondering what it all means.

Here, we answer your key questions about the switch to digital, map-based orders and explain why waiting until the deadline could be a costly mistake.

For Digital Traffic Regulation Orders, the specific penalty structure for non-compliance is still under review, but authorities can expect enforcement through fines, warnings, or legal actions. Don’t put your Local Authority in a last-minute non-compliance situation!

Q: What exactly are Digital Traffic Regulation Orders (DTROs)?

A: DTROs are the modern, digital evolution of traditional Traffic Regulation Orders (TROs). They are map-based and designed for automated use, providing a single, standardised, real-time source of truth for all traffic rules in a given area.

Need more information? Download AppyWay’s Guide to DTROs and find out all about the details. Click here to get it for free.

Q: Why is the switch to DTROs happening now?

A: The transition is being driven by the Automated Vehicles Act 2024. This legislation makes DTROs essential for creating safer roads and smarter cities, and for paving the way for future transport solutions like autonomous vehicles.

Q: What is the deadline for implementing DTROs?

A: While new TROs will need to be digitised by a 2026 deadline, the requirement for historical orders to be DTRO-compliant will come later. The first deadline for new orders could be as early as January 2026.

Q: What is the latest government update on the DTRO timetable?

A: The Department for Transport (DfT) has provided a recent statement acknowledging the need for clarity on the timetable. The current plan is for the draft Regulations to be presented to Parliament in the Autumn 2025 session. The DfT notes that the parliamentary process itself will ultimately set the final timetable. They have also confirmed that official guidance will be published to accompany the new Regulations.

Q: Are there risks to waiting until the 2026 deadline?

A: Yes. Delaying the transition to DTROs means continuing with daily inefficiencies and wasted time. Procrastinating on digitisation will lead to a last-minute ‘compliance crunch’, which brings high costs and significant pressure. Adopting DTROs early ensures a smoother, more cost-effective transition and delivers immediate operational benefits.

Q: Can we just digitise new TROs and worry about the historic ones later?

A: While the deadline for digitising historic TROs is further out, waiting is not recommended. Operating a fragmented system with a mix of digital and paper records costs time and increases the risk of errors every day. A fully digitised and unified system creates a single source of truth that maximises efficiency and data value right now.