Effective 3rd December 2024, the UK Government is implementing significant changes to the Driver Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC) to provide greater flexibility for drivers and operators.
1. Introduction of Two CPC Categories:
International Driver CPC:
- This retains the existing structure, requiring 35 hours of training every five years.
- Necessary for drivers operating both within the UK and the EU.
- Training courses must be at least 7 hours long.
- If a course is split over two days, it must be completed on consecutive days.
- Up to 12 hours of the 35-hour requirement can be fulfilled through approved e-learning modules.
National Driver CPC:
- Designed for drivers operating solely within the UK.
- Requires 35 hours of training every five years.
- Offers flexibility with courses as short as 3 hours and 30 minutes.
- Split courses do not need to be on consecutive days.
- Allows up to 12 hours of e-learning to count towards the 35-hour requirement.
2. Training Flexibility:
Course Duration:
National Driver CPC courses can be a minimum of 3 hours and 30 minutes, providing more flexibility compared to the 7-hour minimum for International Driver CPC courses.
E-Learning:
- Both International and National Driver CPC allow up to 12 hours of e-learning towards the 35-hour training requirement.
- National Driver CPC permits the entire training to be completed via approved e-learning modules, offering greater flexibility.
3. Driver Qualification Cards (DQC):
From 3rd December 2024, the type of DQC issued will reflect the chosen CPC category:
- International Driver CPC Card: Similar to the current design, valid for driving in both the UK and EU.
- National Driver CPC Card: Will include the text ‘DOMESTIC UK USE ONLY’ and is valid only within the UK.
4. Returning to Professional Driving:
Effective February 1, 2025, new pathways will assist drivers whose CPC has expired:
If Expired Between 60 Days and 2 Years:
- Options include completing 35 hours of training or a new 7-hour ‘return to driving’ module, allowing immediate return to UK driving, with additional training required within 12 months for EU driving.
If Expired Over 2 Years:
- The requirement remains to complete 35 hours of training before resuming professional driving.
These reforms aim to enhance flexibility in maintaining Driver CPC qualifications,
You can find out more here.