Update on Driver CPC reforms

The Driver Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC) has been an essential qualification for professional drivers across the UK. To keep pace with industry needs and to simplify the training process, the Driver & Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) has introduced significant reforms to the Driver CPC system.

These changes are aimed at improving training quality, making it more relevant, and introducing new qualification pathways to reflect the varying roles of drivers, particularly those working on an international or domestic basis.

The Key Reforms

The DVSA’s reforms to the Driver CPC will include a refreshed syllabus and new training structures. The main updates are:

1. Updated Syllabus

The revised Driver CPC syllabus will place a stronger emphasis on:

Eco-driving techniques to promote fuel efficiency and reduce emissions.

Technology skills to ensure drivers understand modern vehicle technology such as telematics and digital tachographs.

Health and safety training with a particular focus on driver wellbeing, mental health, and the management of fatigue.

For fleet and transport managers, this update means that drivers will receive training that is more aligned with current industry needs, potentially improving fleet performance and safety.

2. Introduction of New CPC Qualifications

One of the most notable changes is the introduction of two distinct Driver CPC qualifications: the International Driver CPC and the National Driver CPC. These qualifications aim to differentiate the requirements for drivers operating internationally and those working solely within the UK. Below is an overview of each qualification:

Image: Pertemps

International Driver CPC

The International Driver CPC is intended for drivers who operate commercial vehicles across UK borders. This qualification ensures that drivers are competent in both UK and international driving regulations. To obtain this qualification, drivers must:

• Complete the standard 35 hours of periodic training every five years.
• Pass additional modules that cover international regulations, border crossing requirements, customs documentation, and European driving standards.
• Understand regulations specific to each country they are likely to operate in, including working time directives, rest requirements, and vehicle standards across the EU and other countries.

For fleet managers, the International Driver CPC will ensure that drivers are fully prepared to handle the complexities of cross-border transport, reducing the risk of compliance issues and ensuring smooth operations on international routes.

National Driver CPC

• The National Driver CPC is aimed at drivers who operate solely within the UK. The training is more focused on domestic transport requirements and is therefore more streamlined. Drivers will need to:
• Complete the standard 35 hours of periodic training every five years, similar to the international qualification.
• Focus on national driving regulations, including UK-specific legislation around drivers’ hours, vehicle maintenance, and road safety.
• Understand rules surrounding domestic haulage, such as UK speed limits, highway codes, and the specifics of transporting goods within the country.

The National Driver CPC is designed to ensure that drivers operating solely within the UK are compliant with domestic laws and can maintain safe, efficient operations.

For transport managers, offering the correct CPC qualification to drivers based on their role can help improve efficiency and compliance. It also ensures that training is tailored to the needs of the operation, whether drivers are working internationally or domestically.

3. Modular Training and Recognition of Prior Learning

In addition to the new qualifications, the DVSA is introducing:

Modular training: Drivers will have the option to take shorter, more focused training modules, making the 35-hour requirement easier to meet with courses that are relevant to individual or fleet needs.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL): Experienced drivers can count previous training or experience towards their Driver CPC qualification, reducing the amount of time they spend in formal training.

4. Digital CPC Card

A new digital CPC card will be rolled out to streamline the management of Driver CPC qualifications. Transport managers will be able to access records more easily, ensuring that drivers remain compliant and avoiding potential penalties for expired qualifications.

These reforms bring both opportunities and responsibilities for fleet and transport managers. The introduction of the two separate CPC qualifications means that companies will need to decide which qualification best suits their drivers, depending on their routes and types of work. The modular training system offers the chance to provide more tailored learning opportunities, which could lead to greater efficiency and improved driver performance.

Key points to consider include:

• Efficiency gains: Modular training and RPL reduce the time drivers spend in unnecessary training, which can reduce fleet downtime.
• Cost savings: More targeted training and the ability to recognise prior learning should lead to long-term savings, especially for larger fleets.
• Compliance management: The new digital CPC cards will simplify record-keeping, ensuring that fleet managers can more easily track qualifications and ensure that drivers are always compliant.

The DVSA has announced that the changes will begin to roll out from late 2024, with full implementation expected by mid-2025. Transport managers should begin preparing now by reviewing their current Driver CPC processes and ensuring that they understand the differences between the new International and National Driver CPC qualifications.

The upcoming reforms to the UK Driver CPC system, including the introduction of the International and National CPC qualifications, represent a significant shift in how professional driver training will be managed.

For fleet and transport managers, these changes offer opportunities to enhance driver training, improve compliance, and reduce costs, but they also require careful planning and consideration.

By understanding the new qualifications and preparing for the modular training options, businesses can ensure that their drivers remain compliant and fully equipped to handle the demands of both national and international transport.

Author: Mark Salisbury, Editor, Fleetpoint