The Driver CPC (Certificate of Professional Competence) is a legal requirement for all professional drivers of commercial vehicles, including lorries, buses and passenger carrying vehicles. The purpose of the Driver CPC is to keep drivers safe on the road, safe in the vehicle and professionally competent throughout their careers.
This explains how to get your Driver CPC card, what the driver cpc qualification entails, and how to keep it.
What’s a Driver CPC Card?
A Driver CPC card, also known as a Driver Qualification Card (DQC), is issued to drivers who have completed the required CPC training. It’s proof of competence and is mandatory for anyone driving commercial vehicles professionally. Without a valid card you can’t drive for work.
Who needs a Driver CPC?
The Driver CPC applies to all professional drivers of passenger carrying vehicles (PCV) and large goods vehicles (LGV) who drive for work. This includes new drivers and existing drivers with acquired rights.
Eligibility and Requirements
To be eligible for a Driver Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC), you must meet certain requirements. Firstly, you need to hold a valid driving licence for the category of vehicle you wish to drive professionally. This is a fundamental prerequisite to ensure you are legally allowed to operate the vehicle.
Next, you must complete the required periodic training hours, which amount to 35 hours every 5 years. This training is crucial to maintain your CPC and stay updated with industry standards.
If you are a new driver, you will need to pass the Initial CPC test, which includes Module 2 (Case Studies) and Module 4 (Practical Demonstration). This initial qualification ensures that you have the necessary knowledge and skills to drive professionally.
For existing drivers, there are provisions for acquired rights, which allow you to continue driving professionally without taking the initial qualification tests, provided you meet certain criteria. It is essential to check with the relevant authorities to understand the specific requirements based on your individual circumstances.
By meeting these eligibility requirements, you can obtain your Driver CPC card and ensure you are compliant with the regulations, enhancing your CPC and road safety.
How to get a Driver CPC Card
To get your Driver CPC card you must follow these steps:
The initial CPC training includes several components, such as the driver CPC module, which consists of Module 2 (case studies) and Module 4 (practical demonstration).
1. Complete Initial CPC Training
New drivers must complete initial CPC training which includes a theory test and a practical test. This training covers:
- Road safety
- Vehicle safety
- Legal requirements for driving professionally
Once initial qualification is complete you will get your first Driver CPC card.
2. Attend Periodic Training
After initial qualification, you must complete periodic driver CPC training every 5 years to keep your CPC. Periodic training is 35 hours and is made up of modules covering:
- Professional competence
- Vehicle maintenance
- Emergency procedures
- Road safety
Training must be with an approved training provider and your progress will be logged with the Vehicle Standards Agency (VSA).
3. Renew Your Driver CPC Card
Once you’ve completed your periodic training your Driver CPC card will be renewed. Always check the expiry date on your card to stay compliant.
Driver Qualification Card (DQC)
The Driver Qualification Card (DQC), also known as the Driver CPC card, is a vital document for professional drivers. It serves as proof that you have completed the necessary training and qualifications under the Driver CPC scheme.
To obtain a DQC card, you must complete the required periodic training hours and, if you are a new driver, pass the Initial CPC test. This card is valid for 5 years, after which it must be renewed to ensure you remain compliant with the regulations.
The DQC card is a testament to your professional competence and commitment to maintaining high standards in road safety and vehicle operation. It is essential to keep this card up to date and carry it with you whenever you are driving professionally.
Why Periodic Training Matters
The Driver CPC periodic training is to keep drivers up to date with:
- Industry standards
- Changes to the law
- Skills to keep road safety
It also keeps drivers up to date with their professional competence to make road transport safer and more efficient.
Periodic Training Facts:
- Drivers must complete 35 hours of periodic training within 5 years.
- Training is delivered in modules by an approved training provider.
- Topics include vehicle safety, driver health and managing your hours of periodic training.
Choose Your Training Provider
Choosing the right training provider is key to your Driver CPC. Look for providers who offer:
- Online driver CPC training for added flexibility.
- In-centre courses at local training centres.
- Lorry driver or PCV driver programmes.
Many providers also offer online driver CPC courses so you can fit the training around your schedule.
Checking Your Driver CPC Status
Keeping track of your Driver CPC status is crucial to ensure you remain compliant with the regulations. You can easily check your status by logging into your MyCPC portal account. This online portal allows you to view your completed training modules, check your periodic training hours, and access other relevant information.
If you haven’t already set up a MyCPC account, you can register by providing your driver CPC card details and completing the registration process. This portal is a valuable tool for managing your training records and ensuring you meet the training requirements.
By regularly checking your Driver CPC status, you can stay on top of your training and avoid any lapses in your professional competence.
What are the benefits of having a Driver CPC Card
Having a valid Driver CPC card benefits both drivers and employers:
- Compliance with the law.
- Professional competence.
- Road safety and vehicle maintenance skills.
- Staying up to date with industry changes.
Employers also benefit by knowing their drivers are compliant with the regulations and avoid fines and downtime.
Manage Your Driver CPC and Training Records
Drivers and employers can track training through the government portal managed by the Vehicle Standards Agency (VSA). The portal allows you to:
- See how many hours of periodic training you’ve completed.
- Check when your next Driver CPC card is due.
- Make sure all required modules are completed on time.
You’ll need your driving licence details and access to the portal for record management.
Returning to Professional Driving
If you are planning to return to professional driving after a period of absence, it is essential to ensure your Driver CPC card is up to date. You may need to renew your card or complete additional training to meet the current requirements.
Start by checking your Driver CPC status to see if you need to complete any outstanding training hours. If your card has expired, you will need to apply for a new Driver CPC card by contacting an approved training centre or the relevant authorities.
It is recommended to check the most up-to-date information and requirements before returning to professional driving. By doing so, you can ensure you meet all the necessary criteria and continue your career as a professional driver with confidence.
By following these steps, you can smoothly transition back into professional driving, maintaining your compliance with the regulations.
Driver CPC Cards and Training FAQs
What Happens If My Driver CPC Card Expires?
You cannot drive commercially without a valid Driver CPC card. You must complete any outstanding training hours to renew your card.
How Many Hours of Training?
35 hours of periodic training every 5 years to keep your CPC.
Can I do Driver CPC Online?
Yes, online driver CPC training is available so you can do some or all of your training from home.
What’s Covered?
Training modules include:
- Professional competence
- Vehicle maintenance
- Road safety
- Managing your hours
Being a Professional Driver
Being compliant with Driver CPC means you can continue to drive safely and efficiently. Here’s how:
- Plan Ahead: Spread your 35 hours of training over the 5 years to avoid last minute madness.
- Use Accredited Providers: Always choose a trusted training provider so your certification is valid.
- Track Your Progress: Check your training records and hours of periodic training regularly to make sure you’re on target.
Why Road Safety
At the core of Driver CPC training is road safety. By keeping standards high through ongoing training drivers help reduce accidents and make the roads safer for everyone. Regular updates on the regulations and best practice also helps drivers manage their responsibilities better.
Summary
The Driver CPC card is for anyone who drives commercially. By doing driver CPC training and meeting the periodic requirements drivers are not only compliant with the law but also improve their skills. Whether you’re new to the industry or renewing your qualifications, being informed and proactive with your training means a successful and compliant driving career.
