Driver CPC explained

By the end of this topic you can

• You can explain who needs the Driver CPC and the main exemptions.
• You can list the tests in the initial qualification.
• You can explain the 35-hour periodic training rule.
• You can describe the difference between National and International Driver CPC.
• You can say what to do if your Driver CPC has lapsed.

What you need to know and understand

• You need the full Driver CPC if driving a lorry, bus or coach is the main part of your job.
• The initial qualification is made up of Part 1 theory, Part 2 case studies, Part 3a off-road exercises, Part 3b on-road driving and Part 4 practical demonstration.
• To stay qualified, you must complete 35 hours of Driver CPC training every 5 years.
• Since December 2024 there are two options: International Driver CPC for driving in the UK and EU, and National Driver CPC for driving in the UK only.
• Up to 12 of the 35 hours can be done as e-learning.
• You must carry your Driver CPC card when driving professionally.
• On an approved National Vocational Training (NVT) course, you can drive professionally for up to 12 months without having passed Parts 2 and 4.

Who needs it, and who does not

If you are paid mainly to drive a lorry, bus or coach, you need it. That includes delivery drivers, haulage drivers, bus and coach drivers. You may not need it in some situations, including:

• Driving is not the main part of your job, for example taking a vehicle to a test centre
• Carrying passengers or goods for personal, non-commercial use
• Driving a vehicle limited to 28 mph
• Driving vehicles used by services such as the armed forces or police

Getting qualified the first time

New professional drivers take five tests. Parts 1 and 3 are also needed for the licence itself; Parts 2 and 4 are the extra Driver CPC tests. Once you pass everything, you get a Driver CPC card, sometimes called a driver qualification card.

1. Part 1: theory test (multiple choice and hazard perception)
2. Part 2: case studies test
3. Part 3a: off-road exercises
4. Part 3b: on-road driving test
5. Part 4: practical demonstration test

National or International: choosing your training

Every 5 years you must complete 35 hours of periodic training with an approved provider. Courses cover topics such as safe and fuel-efficient driving, drivers' hours, first aid awareness and customer care. Since 3 December 2024 you can choose between two routes.

• International Driver CPC: lets you drive professionally in the UK and the EU. Courses must be at least 7 hours, and a split course must be completed on 2 consecutive days.
• National Driver CPC: for drivers who only drive professionally in the UK. Courses must be at least 3 hours 30 minutes and split courses do not need to be on consecutive days. The card is marked for domestic UK use only.
• UK-only drivers can mix National and International hours to make up the 35.

If your Driver CPC runs out

You must not drive professionally once your Driver CPC has expired. Since 1 February 2025, if it expired between 60 days and 2 years ago, you have options that include a 7-hour 'return to driving' module, after which you can drive in the UK, as long as you complete a further 28 hours within 12 months. If it expired more than 2 years ago, you must complete the full 35 hours before driving again. Northern Ireland drivers should follow DVA guidance, which runs its own process.

Common mistakes

• Thinking a lorry or bus licence alone lets you drive for a living. You also need the Driver CPC.
• Leaving all 35 hours until the final months. Courses fill up; spread them over the 5 years.
• Choosing National courses and then taking a job that goes into the EU. National only covers UK driving.
• Forgetting to carry the card. You must have it with you when driving professionally.
• Assuming the 7-hour return module is the whole requirement. You still owe 28 more hours within 12 months.

Test yourself: Driver CPC explained

Answer each question, then read the explanation. Questions come in a random order each time.