The Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC) is an essential qualification for professional drivers of heavy goods vehicles (HGVs), buses and coaches in the UK. This qualification ensures that drivers maintain a high standard of road safety and driving competence. With the 15th anniversary of the CPC fast approaching, it is crucial for all professional drivers to complete or update their certification by the impending deadline of 9 September 2024.
Bus and coach (PCV) drivers who hold a relevant vocational licence (D, D1, D+E and D1+E) gained before 10 September 2008, (including restricted vocational licence D(101) issued after 1991 and D1(101) issued before 1997) and truck (LGV) drivers who obtained their licence (C, C1, C+E and C1+E) before 10 September 2009, do not need to take the initial qualification as they are deemed to hold ‘acquired rights’. What this means is they have already acquired a good level of driving experience. However, they must still complete periodic training to maintain their Driver CPC.
If drivers have passed their chosen truck or bus licence before these dates, then they have two options. They can choose either to complete the Initial CPC or the Continuation (35 hours). Drivers who are new to becoming a professional driver can only do the Initial CPC.
Completing or updating the Driver CPC by the September 2024 deadline is vital for several reasons:
Legal compliance: it is a legal requirement for professional drivers to hold a valid CPC. Driving without it can result in substantial fines and legal penalties, putting both the driver and the employer at risk.
Safety standards: the CPC training ensures that drivers are up to date with the latest road safety regulations, driving techniques and industry best practices. This fact is crucial in maintaining high safety standards on the road, reducing accidents, and ensuring the safety of passengers and other road users.
Professionalism and competence: holding a valid CPC demonstrates a driver's commitment to their profession and competence in their role. It can enhance a driver's employability and career prospects in a competitive industry.
Regulatory updates: road transport regulations are frequently updated. The CPC training includes these updates, ensuring that drivers are knowledgeable about the latest legal requirements and safety protocols.
TIME COMMITMENT
The CPC training consists of two main parts: for new drivers, the initial qualification involves a theory test and a practical test, similar to the process of obtaining a standard driving licence. This setup ensures that new drivers have the necessary knowledge and skills to start their professional driving careers.
For existing drivers, periodic training is required to maintain their CPC. This involves 35 hours of training every five years. The training is typically spread over five days, with each day covering different aspects of professional driving and road safety.
There are numerous accredited training centres across the UK offering CPC training. These centres are approved by the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) and provide high-quality training to ensure drivers meet the required standards. One key resource to find training centres would be the official DVSA website, which lists all accredited training providers, making it easy to find a centre near you. Organisations such as the Freight Transport Association (FTA) and the Road Haulage Association (RHA) also often provide information on approved training centres and courses.
Many local educational institutions and private training providers also offer CPC courses. Checking with local colleges and training centres can be a good way to find convenient and reputable training options.
HIGH DEMAND
The demand for CPC training is high every five years due to the periodic training requirement. All drivers must complete 35 hours of training within this period to renew their CPC. This year, the demand is particularly intense for several reasons. Firstly, 2024 marks the 15th anniversary of the CPC being introduced for all professional drivers. This milestone has resulted in a large number of drivers needing to renew their certification, leading to a surge in demand for training courses.
Secondly, the COVID-19 pandemic caused disruptions in many sectors, including driver training. Some drivers may have deferred their training due to the pandemic, creating a backlog that needs to be addressed this year.
Thirdly, the logistics and transport industry has seen considerable growth in recent years, increasing the number of professional drivers who require CPC training.
MISSING THE DEADLINE
Failing to complete or update the CPC by the 9 September 2024 deadline can have serious consequences for drivers and their employers. Driving without a valid CPC is illegal. Drivers caught without their CPC can face fines of up to £1,000 – and employers can also be penalised for allowing an uncertified driver to operate a vehicle.
Without a valid CPC, drivers cannot legally work. This can result in loss of income and employment, as employers are unlikely to retain drivers who are not compliant with legal requirements.
Operating a vehicle without a valid CPC can invalidate insurance policies, exposing drivers and companies to financial risk in the event of an accident. For fleet operators, having drivers without a valid CPC can lead to operational disruptions. It can be challenging to find replacement drivers on short notice, potentially impacting service delivery and customer satisfaction.
CALL TO ACTION
The deadline for completing or updating the Driver CPC is a critical milestone for HGV, bus and coach drivers. Ensuring compliance is not only a legal requirement but also a commitment to maintaining high standards of road safety and professional competence.
Given the high demand for training this year, it is advisable for drivers to book their courses early to avoid last-minute rushes and potential non-compliance. By staying proactive and completing the necessary training, drivers and fleet operators can ensure a smooth and compliant transition into the next five-year cycle, contributing to the overall safety and efficiency of the UK's transport industry.
In conversation with the DVSA, which has been slightly hamstrung due to purdah around the snap election, it urges drivers to complete the training as soon as possible and to consider spreading the training out over the five-year period in future, possibly a day a year, rather than book in all 35 hours right at the end. The obvious benefits of this are that the cost of training is spread out over five years and driver availability is less affected.
