This gives drivers the flexibility to obtain their vocational licence only, or to gain full Driver CPC at the same time.ĭriver CPC theory tests Part one - Theory test. The other two parts are optional and need be taken only if the driver requires the full Driver CPC to allow them to drive buses, coaches or lorries professionally. These include the theory and practical tests drivers will need to pass before they can gain their full vocational driving licence.

The initial Driver CPC qualification is split into four parts. Drivers with licences for both PCV and LGV are covered by one DQC which is valid until 9 September 2019. Their DQC is valid until 9 September 2018 for PCV drivers, and until 9 September 2019 for LGV drivers. New drivers who pass the initial qualification tests will receive a 'Driver Qualification Card' (DQC), or alternatively community code 95 is added to the driving licence to show that they hold a Driver CPC.ĭrivers who have acquired rights receive their DQC when they have completed their first 35 hours of periodic training. They must still complete periodic training to maintain their Driver CPC. This must be maintained with 35 hours of periodic training every 5 years or the certificate will lapse.īus 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 lorry ( 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'. New drivers obtain their Driver CPC by passing a series of initial qualification tests with both theory and practical sections. Under a European Union Directive, professional drivers of lorries over 3.5 tonnes or Passenger Carrying Vehicles (PCV) with 9 or more seats must usually obtain a Driver CPC in addition to a vocational driving licence. It has been introduced across Europe with the aim of improving road safety and maintaining high standards of driving.

The Driver Certificate of Professional Competence (Driver CPC) is a qualification for professional bus, coach and lorry drivers. European qualification for bus, coach, and lorry drivers

Drivers cpc module 2