Driver CPC

This chapter provides information on the Driver Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC), covering who needs one and when, the differences between initial and periodic Driver CPC and the driver qualification card (DQC).

 

Download the Driver CPC chapter of the Yearbook of Road Transport Law

Contents:

  • The Driver CPC.

  • The initial Driver CPC.

  • Changes to Driver CPC test part 3a.

  • The periodic Driver CPC.

  • Cross recognition. 

  • Periodic training requirements.

  • Repeat training.

  • Minimum qualifications and training requirements.

  • Acquired rights drivers returning to the industry.

  • The training record and driver qualification card.

  • Offences and penalties.

What is Driver CPC?

Driver CPC (Certificate of Professional Competence) is compulsory training introduced by the European Parliament and Council. It's designed to improve drivers' awareness of road safety, fuel efficiency and career development. The regulations apply to new drivers acquiring a pcv (passenger carrying vehicle) license and/or lgv (large goods vehicle) licence. However, under Driver CPC regulations, all drivers who hold a vocational licence must complete 35 hours periodic training every five years.

European Commission review of Driver CPC

In 2013, the European Commission launched a review of Driver CPC which is likely to result in changes to the European directive; any resulting changes would come into force around 2018. Following discussions with Logistics UK members, the Association responded to this review and successfully influenced the Department for Transport to recognise operators' concerns in the Government's own response.

Logistics UK emphasised to the Commission the importance of retaining the flexibility for industry to identify its own training needs rather than these being prescribed by legislators.

Download the Driver CPC chapter of the Yearbook of Road Transport Law