CPC - Prima Training North East Ltd

Certificate of Professional Competence

Drivers Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC) is an essential qualification for Transport and Road Haulage drivers and managers. It is a European Union Directive to improve road safety across the whole of the EU and improve the economic efficiency of the transport sector. It is required that all commercial drivers have to undertake a Periodic Qualification, consisting of 35 hours of accredited training within five years and every five years thereafter.

It allows every driver to keep up to date with the latest knowledge and transferrable skills to take on new roles and jobs, for Transport Managers it will reduce accidents, increase efficiency and performance.

Once you have successfully completed the course, you will be allowed to drive in your chosen field, whether it is LGV or PCV across the whole European Union.

If you have any special requirements from your CPC course then we can customise the course to fit your needs.

When will it start?

Bus and Coach drivers - 10/09/08

Lorry drivers - 10/09/09

How will it affect me?

As a new driver from the above dates, you will need to pass the Driver CPC theory and practical tests in addition to the licence acquisition theory and practical tests if you intend to drive professionally. Once you have passed these tests you will be issued with a driver qualification card and need to undergo ongoing periodic training to keep your Driver CPC qualification.

Drivers who are current licence holders have “acquired rights” and can drive on that licence until 2014, By which time they must have completed 35 hours of training.

Once I have passed my initial qualification is that it?

No. A Driver CPC lasts for five years. To retain your Driver CPC you will need to complete 35 hours of periodic training every five years to continue to drive professionally.

How will I prove I hold Driver CPC?

On completion of 35 hours training you will be sent a Driver Qualification Card (DQC). There will be no charge for the card at the point of issue. The DQC will be sent to the address on your driving licence. It is important that you keep your details up to date with DVLA. All training completed for Driver CPC will be logged on the card. You must carry your DQC whilst driving and there will be penalties if you are found to be driving professionally without one.

What subjects will periodic training cover?

Periodic training is designed to complement the individual driver’s work and be relevant to their everyday job. Courses may include SAFED (Safe and Fuel Efficient Driving) style training, defensive driving techniques, first aid, health and safety, driver’s hours regulations and tachographs. Courses will also enable drivers to keep up to date with changing regulations.