The Driver Certificate of Professional Competence (DCPC) is undergoing some changes which will make it more flexible for UK-only drivers, with updates to the qualification and requalification processes.
Staying qualified
Effective 3rd December 2024, drivers will have the option to stay qualified via either an International or National Driver CPC.
- The International Driver CPC will be replacing the current one, but the requirements remain the same: 35 hours of training every 5 years for EU and UK driving.
- The National Driver CPC offers flexibility for UK-only drivers. You can choose 35 hours of National training or a mix of National and International training every 5 years.
The new system will enable UK-only drivers to minimise training time with a reduction in minimum course length – national training modules can also be completed flexibly, without the constraint of consecutive training days, as course providers will have the ability to set their own time limits. A welcome change that will reduce the training burden on drivers and operators.
New passes and returning drivers
After passing the qualifying tests, you’ll receive an International Driver CPC for the first 5 years. Your choice of periodic training will determine your future CPC type. If you’re returning to professional driving, the current system requires you to take 35 hours of training before you can drive again – this is due to change from 1st February 2025.
Driver CPC cards
Driver CPC cards will still be required and remain largely unchanged – International Driver CPC cards will retain their current format and National Driver CPC cards will be distinguished by the inclusion of the text ‘DOMESTIC UK USE ONLY’.
Drivers qualified to drive both HGVs and buses or coaches professionally may hold both types of cards if, for example, are qualified to drive HGVs internationally and buses or coaches domestically.
For further information, please visit the GOV UK website.
