Driver CPC deadline expires today: traffic commissioner warning 10 September 2014

All professional bus, coach and truck drivers must have completed their first block of Driver Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC) periodic training by today (10 September 2014) to continue working.

Evidence suggests that the vast majority have met the deadline, with 664,000 drivers now having completed the 35 hours required, according to the DVSA (Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency).

Industry estimates suggest there are between 425,000 and 675,000 professional drivers across Great Britain.

"I would like to thank the bus, coach and haulage industry for their support – including the drivers and operators and the wider industry which has been invaluable in helping with the introduction of Driver CPC," states DVSA chief executive Alastair Peoples.
.
"Driver CPC has a lot to offer and, by keeping their skills up to date, professional drivers are helping to make Britain's roads amongst the safest in the world."

"Traffic commissioners want to congratulate the HGV industry on reaching this milestone," adds Joan Aitken, lead traffic commissioner on Driver CPC (ictured).

"Trainers, drivers and employers have worked hard to ensure drivers are qualified in time and traffic commissioners look forward to seeing the same high level of compliance that was shown by the bus and coach deadline a year ago."

Aitken reminds operators and drivers who have not met the deadline that failure to complete the hours and hold the DQC (driver qualification card) runs the real risk of action being taken against them.

FTA (the Freight Transport Association) is broadly supportive, but warns of a shortage of professional drivers.

"The logistics industry is not going to grind to a halt today, as some suggested: the figures indicate that most drivers will have got it done," comments James Firth, FTA's head of road freight and enforcement policy.

"But the deadline highlights a more fundamental problem of driver supply in the future. The cost of getting your HGV licence; the cost to companies of insuring young drivers; the lack of facilities for drivers on the road network; and a generally negative image of the profession are all barriers to young people."

Author
Brian Tinham

This material is protected by MA Business copyright
See Terms and Conditions.
One-off usage is permitted but bulk copying is not.
For multiple copies contact the sales team.