Everything you need to know about the driver CPC changes
On the 3rd of December 2024, changes to the Driver Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC) will come into full effect. The new CPC aims to offer better flexibility to drivers returning to the profession and those undertaking mandatory training. We delve into the upcoming changes and how they will impact drivers.
What is the Driver CPC?
Introduced in 2007, the CPC is a mandatory qualification for professional drivers in the UK and EU wanting to drive a range of heavy vehicles, such as HGVs, LGVs, buses, and coaches.
Drivers must pass four tests:
• Theory
• Case study
• Practical
• Vehicle safety demonstration.
Once passed, the CPC lasts for five years and must be renewed by taking 35 hours of periodic training within the five years.
Why was there a consultation regarding the Driver CPC?
The UK government wanted to understand the effectiveness of the Driver CPC. They did this by asking drivers, trainers, and other parties to take a poll. The government focused on two main areas: improving driver choice and attracting more drivers into the industry – for example, making it easier for drivers with foreign qualifications to obtain a licence in the UK.
What changes are coming into effect?
The changes to the Driver CPC are categorised into the following:
International CPC:
The international Driver CPC is the new name for how the previous Driver CPC worked. The following applies:
• Drivers must take 35 hours of CPC training every five years.
• The courses must be at least seven hours long.
• If splitting a course over a day, a driver must complete it on two consecutive days.
• Drivers are allowed to do a total of 12 hours of e-learning.
National Driver CPC
The National Driver CPC provides more flexibility for those wanting to drive in the UK. Drivers can take either:
• 35 hours of training every five years.
• A combination of 35 hours of National Driver CPC and International Driver CPC training every five years.
The flexibility means that:
• Training must be at least 3 hours 30 minutes long – training providers can offer longer courses.
• It does not need to be completed on two consecutive days if it’s a split course – course providers can set their time limits.
• Training can be e-learning.
• Drivers can do 12 hours of e-learning towards their overall 35 hours.
Staying qualified
From the 3rd of December, 2024, drivers will be able to stay qualified by choosing either:
- International Driver CPC
- National Driver CPC
What does it mean for drivers returning to the profession?
Drivers wanting to return to the profession must take 35 hours of training before returning. However, this will change from the 1st of February, 2025.
February 1st, 2025 changes
Drivers with an expired CPC will have new pathways to make returning to driving easier.
If CPC has expired between 60 days and two years ago
Drivers have four options:
Option one:
• Undertake 35 hours of International Driver CPC training.
• Regain qualification to drive in the UK and EU.
Option two:
• Complete 35 hours of National Driver CPC training.
• Regain qualification to drive in the UK only.
Option three:
• Take a seven-hour “return to driving” module.
• Regain UK driving qualification instantly.
• To drive in the EU, complete 28 additional hours of training within 12 months.
Option four:
• As part of the National Driver CPC training, complete a seven-hour “return to driving” module.
• Regain UK driving qualification instantly.
• Take 28 additional hours of training (National or International Driver CPC) within 12 months.
If CPC expired over two years ago
Drivers must take 35 hours of training (International or National).
Driver CPC cards
The rules surrounding Driver CPC cards remain the same – drivers must carry their cards when operating vehicles professionally. However, the type of card differs based on qualification:
International driver CPC card
• Identical to the current design.
National driver CPC card
• The design will include “Domestic UK use only.”
If a driver is qualified for both categories, they may hold two cards.
How can fleet managers prepare?
Fleet managers can prepare for the changes by ensuring the following:
• Find out whether their drivers need an International or National CPC.
• Training deadlines aren’t missed to avoid fines.
Who is exempt from the Driver CPC?
You are exempt from needing a Driver CPC if you’re using the vehicle for:
• Non-commercial carriage
• Carrying materials you use for your job – driving must be less than 30% of your rolling monthly work.
• Driving for someone you work for or your own agriculture, horticulture, forestry, farming, or fisheries business – driving must be less than 30% of your rolling monthly work.
• Driving within 62 miles of your base – driving a HGV, bus, or coach must not be your main job.
• Driving to or from pre-booked appointments to test centres.
• Lessons for anyone wanting to get a driving licence or a Driver CPC.
• Maintain public order.
Full guidance is on the Gov website.
Do I need a CPC with grandfather rights?
Drivers with grandfather rights don’t need to hold the actual qualification as part of their licence. However, they must complete 35 hours of training every five years.
