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FAQ's
Orientation
Introduced across the European Union simultaneously by EU Directive (2003/59/EC).
New Initial Qualification Periodic Training (ongoing requirement) DSA is the competent authority for implementation on behalf
of the Department for Transport.
Who is affected?
Driver CPC has been introduced across the European Union to maintain high driving standards and improve road safety.
All professional bus, coach and lorry drivers must hold a Driver CPC if they want to drive for a living (there are a few
exempt groups – please see exemptions below).
NB: any drivers of lorries over 3.5 tonnes, and minibuses with nine seats or more, must obtain a Driver CPC.
The ‘Transport Manager’s CPC’ also known as the ‘Operator’s CPC’ is a separate qualification and anyone holding one
who still drives professionally as part of their job also needs to hold a Driver CPC.
Exemptions
Road testing vehicles.
Vehicles with maximum speed of 45 kph.
Armed forces, fire and defence.
Emergency Services.
Vehicles used for driving lessons.
Incidental drivers.
(I.e. carrying material or equipment to be used by the driver in the course of his/ her work, provided that driving the vehicle does not constitute the driver’s principal activity).
Is there a test to pass?
No.
There is no requirement for a course to include a test or a pass/fail element.
I hold both a PCV and LGV licence; will I need to undertake two sets of periodic training?
No.
Only one set of periodic training needs to be completed every five years.
Benefits
The DCPC will ensure that drivers are aware of new and forthcoming legislation. It will also attract young people to join the Industry since the qualifying age has been reduced from 21 to 18 years of age.
Periodic Training Licence holders must complete 35 hours of approved training before 10th September 2014. Training may be spread over 5 years, but must be in blocks of 7 hours duration, or taken in one week.
New drivers must also have 35 hours of training within 5 years of passing LGV test.
How It Works
Driving Standards Agency will hold the database and each period of training you complete will be credited to your driving licence.
A certificate of training completed, will be issued after each segment of training.
DVLA will issue DQC at the end of the 5 year period of confirmed approved training.
This card must be carried with your driving licence at all times.
How will I prove I hold Driver CPC?
You will be able to prove you hold Driver CPC by a Driver Qualification Card (DQC).
The card will be issued to new drivers automatically on successfully passing the initial qualification.
Drivers with acquired rights (holding a GB photo card licence) will be automatically issued with the card on completion of the 35th hour of periodic training.
Those drivers with acquired rights will be able to use their driving licence as proof of their Driver CPC status until they have completed their 35 hours training within the first five year cycle at which point they will be issued with a DQC.
There will be no charge for the card at point of issue.
As the card will be sent to the address on your driving licence it is important that you keep your details up to date with DVLA.
You must carry your DQC whilst driving and there will be penalties if you are found to be driving professionally without one.
If your DQC has been lost, stolen or damaged, you must report it to the DSA as soon as possible and apply for a replacement
card.
There will be a fee to replace and issue new cards.
To report your DQC card lost, stolen or damaged contact:
Email: DSA(putting ‘DQC Enquiry’ in the subject field),
Phone: 0300 200 1122 or write to;
Driver CPC Enquiries
PB Box 280
Newcastle
NE99 1FP
You will be able to continue to drive professionally while you wait for your new DQC to arrive.
If your replacement card does not arrive within 15 days of your application, we strongly recommend that you contact them to
confirm that your application has been received and is being processed.
It is also advisable to inform your Employer if your card has been lost or stolen.
Legalities
It is the driver's responsibility to see that any training undertaken, falls within his daily duty regarding tachograph and WTD regulations.
© 2009 Fenland Training