From the 3rd of December 2024, changes to the Driver CPC requirements are coming into effect. Previously, there was one universal specification for all heavy goods vehicles, bus or coach drivers. The new rules introduce greater flexibility for those who only drive in the UK and don’t venture into the EU.
What Stays the Same for Drivers Operating in the EU?
For drivers who do drive in the EU, the requirements remain unchanged. Drivers must still complete 35 hours of training every 5 years. There are no changes to the course requirements themselves, meaning that:
- courses you take must be at least 7 hours long
- if a course is split over a day, you must complete it on 2 consecutive days
- you’re allowed to do a total of 12 hours of e-learning towards your overall 35 hours of training
This qualification will now be known as International Driver CPC.
How Does National Driver CPC Offer More Flexibility for UK Drivers?
Drivers operating solely in the UK will now qualify under National Driver CPC, which introduces more flexibility in how training is completed:
- Courses must be at least 3 hours 30 minutes long, though providers can offer longer sessions
- Split courses don’t need to be completed on 2 consecutive days- course providers are free to set their time limits
- Training can be completed entirely through e-learning, making it more convenient.
- A total of 12 hours of e-learning can count towards the required 35 hours
The requirement for drivers to undertake 35 hours of training every 5 years remains, however, this can all be National Driver CPC training or a mixture of National and International courses.
Drivers wishing to maintain their qualification after their current Driver CPC expires can take a National or International Driver CPC course. However, choosing the National Driver CPC will mean the driver is no longer eligible to drive in the EU.
Are There Any Changes to Driver CPC Cards?
The rules around Driver CPC cards are not changing and the card must still be carried when driving a lorry, bus or coach professionally.
**Drivers can be fined up to £1,000 for driving professionally without Driver CPC.**
Upcoming Changes in February 2025
Further changes are coming into effect from 1st February 2025 for those whose current Driver CPC has already expired. More information on all these changes can be found on the DVSA website guidance for Driver CPC: changes in 2024 and 2025
Stay Compliant with FleetCheck
To ensure compliance, upload your drivers’ CPC qualifications and expiry dates to your FleetCheck account. This will help you stay ahead of deadlines and avoid penalties by ensuring refresher training is completed on time.
