What is the Driver CPC?
The Driver CPC is a Certificate of Professional Competence required for LGV and PCV drivers in the industry. It was introduced in 2008 to increase road safety, professionalism, and environmental awareness. The Driver CPC is a European Union directive that aims to improve the skills and knowledge of professional drivers. The driver certificate is crucial for heavy goods vehicle, bus, and coach drivers, ensuring they meet the necessary standards and training hours to maintain their qualification. It is a requirement for LGV and PCV drivers in the industry who want to receive payment for their work.
Do I Need a Driver CPC?
- If you drive a vehicle over 3.5 tonnes or hold over 9 passengers and want to receive payment, you need a Driver CPC.
- The Driver CPC is not required for drivers who obtained their licence before specific dates.
- You need a Driver CPC to maintain your professional competence and comply with industry regulations.
- The Driver CPC is a requirement for LGV and PCV drivers in the industry who want to drive professionally.
Maintaining Your Driver CPC
To maintain your driver CPC qualification, you need to complete 35 hours of periodic training every five years. The training deadline is shown on your Driver CPC card. You can choose from a range of training courses to complete your periodic training. It’s essential to stay on top of your training to avoid missing your deadline.
Driver CPC Card and Training Records
The Driver CPC card is a crucial document that serves as proof of a driver’s professional competence. It is essential to keep this card up to date and ensure that all training records are accurate and easily accessible. Drivers can check their training records online or by contacting the DVSA. It’s important to remember that the Driver CPC card is distinct from the vocational licence, and both documents must be valid and current. Keeping these records in order not only helps in staying compliant but also ensures that drivers are always ready to drive professionally without any legal hiccups.
Eligible Periodic Training for CPC Hours
Driver CPC approved courses must be approved by the DVSA and last for a minimum of 7 hours. The current process for available training options for drivers includes various certified programs that help in obtaining necessary certifications. Examples of activities and training that count towards CPC hours include Driver CPC courses, ADR training, first aid training, HIAB training, and Operator CPC training.
These examples can guide drivers in selecting training and activities that contribute to their CPC hours.
It’s crucial to understand which activities and training count towards CPC hours.
Training Requirements and Deadlines
To maintain their professional competence, drivers must complete 35 hours of periodic training every five years. The training deadline is clearly indicated on the Driver CPC card, and it is crucial for drivers to complete the required training before this deadline to avoid fines and penalties. Drivers can easily check their training deadline online or by contacting the DVSA. Missing the training deadline can lead to significant consequences, but drivers can still complete their training afterward, albeit with potential penalties. Staying proactive about training deadlines ensures that drivers remain compliant and continue to drive professionally.
Driver Qualification Card (DQC)
The rules around carrying DQCs (sometimes called a Driver CPC card) are not changing. You must still carry this card while driving a lorry, bus, or coach professionally. The Driver Qualification Card is proof of your professional competence and is required by law. You can be fined up to £1,000 for driving professionally without a valid CPC, and it can also risk your vocational license.
Consequences of Missing Training Deadlines
- It’s illegal to drive professionally if your training is not complete by your deadline.
- You can be fined up to £1,000 for driving professionally without a valid Driver CPC.
- Missing your training deadline can also result in the loss of your vocational licence.
- It’s essential to stay on top of your training to avoid missing your deadline.
Staying Compliant
- To stay compliant, you need to complete your periodic training and carry your Driver Qualification Card.
- You must also ensure that your training is approved by the DVSA.
- It’s essential to stay up to date with the latest regulations and requirements.
- You can be fined up to £1,000 for driving professionally without a valid Driver CPC.
Changes to Driver CPC Regulations
The Driver CPC regulations are subject to change, and it’s essential to stay up to date. The Traffic Commissioner requires evidence of refresher training in certain instances. Refresher training can be achieved through a recognized Transport Manager CPC Refresher course. The Traffic Commissioner will expect evidence of refresher training on initial application, renewal of an operator’s license, and at Public Inquiry.
Benefits of Professional Competence
Having a valid Driver CPC card is a legal requirement for professional HGV drivers. Completing CPC training allows drivers to enhance their knowledge and skills in areas relevant to the safe operation of commercial vehicles. For professional driving, the Driver CPC is essential, and upcoming changes aim to make the qualification process more flexible for those operating heavy goods vehicles, buses, or coaches. Holding a full CPC can open up more job opportunities and increase employability. It demonstrates a commitment to ongoing professional development and safety.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Driver CPC is an essential qualification for professional drivers in the UK, designed to enhance road safety, professionalism, and environmental awareness. It is mandatory for drivers who wish to drive professionally and receive payment for their work. Completing periodic training every five years and keeping the Driver CPC card up to date is vital for maintaining professional competence. Additionally, transport managers must be aware of the separate Transport Manager CPC qualification required for their role. By understanding and adhering to the requirements and deadlines for both the Driver CPC and Transport Manager CPC, drivers and transport managers can ensure compliance with regulations and uphold the highest standards of professional development and road safety.
