Driver Certificate of Professional Competence Training

What is the Driver Certificate of Professional Competence?

The Driver Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC) is a European Union directive designed to improve road safety and maintain high driving standards among professional drivers. Implemented in September 2009, the directive mandates that all professional bus, lorry, and coach drivers must obtain a Driver CPC.

Initial Training Requirements

New drivers must pass a series of initial qualifications to obtain their Driver CPC. These qualifications include:

• Hazard Perception Assessment
• Vocational Test
• Practical and Theory Testing

Ongoing Training

Professional drivers are required to complete a 35-hour training course every five years to maintain their Driver CPC. This ongoing training ensures that drivers stay updated with the latest safety regulations and driving techniques.

Exemptions and Grandfather Clause

Drivers who held their Passenger Carry Vehicle (PCV) or Larger Goods Vehicle (LGV) license before September 2008 are exempt from the initial CPC training. However, they must still complete the 35-hour renewal course every five years to maintain their certification.

Training Course Content

The Driver CPC training course covers various aspects of efficient passenger safety, including:

• First Aid and Health
• Driver’s Regulations
• Macrograph Proficiency

These mandatory requirements are designed to encourage drivers to maintain high driving skills and ensure the safety of passengers.

Approved Training Centers

Professional drivers can complete their training at approved centers. A list of these centers can be found online. Upon completion of the 35-hour training course, drivers receive their Driver Qualification Card, and their information is entered into a nationwide database.

Legal Implications

Driving without a Driver CPC is illegal. The ongoing implementation of the law extends the requirement for initial and ongoing training to all new drivers. Existing drivers are protected by the grandfather clause, but all new drivers must complete the training and pass all required exams before becoming employees.

Interesting Statistics

• According to the European Commission, over 3.5 million professional drivers in the EU are required to hold a Driver CPC.
• A study by the European Transport Safety Council found that countries with strict Driver CPC enforcement saw a 20% reduction in road accidents involving professional drivers.

Conclusion

The Driver Certificate of Professional Competence is a vital directive aimed at improving road safety and maintaining high driving standards among professional drivers. By requiring ongoing training and certification, the directive ensures that drivers are well-equipped to handle the challenges of the road, ultimately contributing to safer and more efficient transportation.

For more information on the Driver CPC, you can visit the European Commission's official page on road safety or the UK Government's page on Driver CPC.

This article provides a comprehensive overview of the Driver Certificate of Professional Competence, highlighting its importance, requirements, and impact on the transportation industry. By adhering to this directive, professional drivers can ensure they are well-prepared to navigate the roads safely and efficiently.