Initial Driver CPC Training

The Driver Certificate of Professional Competence (Driver CPC) is a new requirement for professional drivers, this have been introduced across the European Union (EU) to maintain high driving standards and to improve road safety.

• For bus or coach drivers, this came into effect on the 10th September 2008.
• For lorry drivers, this came into effect on the 10th September 2009.

Drivers who did not hold a vocational driving licence before the introduction of the Driver CPC are known within the training industry as 'New Drivers'.

Before a New Driver can use their bus, coach or lorry license for professional reasons (WORK), they will need to obtain their Initial Driver CPC Qualification by carrying out the following:

• Theory Test: Multiple Choice questions and Hazard Perception. MODULE 1

• Case Studies: Questions about real-life situations you are likely to come across in your working life. MODULE 2

• Practical Driving Test: Driving test with a DSA examiner to assess the driving ability as a professional. MODULE 3

• Vehicle Safety Demonstration: Practical test to demonstrate your ability to secure and load Vehicle with due regard to safety rules and proper vehicle use. MODULE 4

  SAMPLE

This must be done in this order pass the Theory Tests before taking your Practical Driving Test, and pass the Case Studies before taking the Vehicle Safety Demonstration test. However, you may choose to do the Theory Tests or Case Studies in any order. You may also take the Vehicle Safety Demonstration before the Practical Driving Test if you wish.

Once the Initial Driver CPC Qualification has been gained, drivers will obtain a Driver Qualification Card (DQC). This forms part of their professional drivers licence and must be carried with them at all times. On obtaining the Driver Qualification Card, drivers will then have 5 years to undergo 35 hours training. More information can be found on our Periodic Driver CPC section.

• Bus or coach drivers who have held their vocational licence (D*, D1*, DE*, D1E*) prior to 10th September 2008 have obtained acquired ('grandfather') rights and therefore do not need to obtain the Initial Driver CPC Qualification.

• Lorry drivers who have held their vocational licence (C, C1, CE, C1E) prior to 10th September 2009 have also obtained acquired ('grandfather') rights and similarly do not need to obtain the Initial Driver CPC Qualification.

• PLEASE NOTE: Those who have a bus or coach entitlement on their licence stating Code 101 (Not for hire or reward) will not have acquired rights and will have to take the Initial Driver CPC Qualification should they wish to drive professionally. 

The Periodic Driver CPC details how drivers have to complete 35 hours training within every 5 years. For bus or coach drivers, the first 5 years expires on the 9th September 2013. For lorry drivers, the first 5 years expires on the 9th September 2014.

For more details on the Periodic Training, please see our Periodic Driver CPC section.