CPC for new professional lorry, bus and coach drivers
If you want to drive professionally you need an initial Driver Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC) qualification. You’ll get a Driver Qualification Card (DQC) when you qualify. You must keep this with you when you’re driving professionally.
The Driver CPC initial qualification
The Driver CPC initial qualification has four parts:
- part one - theory test (this includes two separate tests - multiple choice and hazard perception)
- part two - case study test
- part three - driving ability test
- part four - practical demonstration test
You must pass all four parts to get your Driver CPC.
Book online – theory test and case study test
You can book parts one and two online. When you book using this service, you only pay the cost of the test – there’s no extra booking fee.
To book a theory test online you’ll need:
- a valid UK driving licence
- a valid debit or credit card for payment (Visa, Mastercard, Delta, Visa Electron and Switch/Maestro cards are accepted)
- a valid email address to receiving a booking confirmation (optional - if you do not have an email address, your booking confirmation will be sent to you by post)
- Book, change, or cancel your theory test appointment
Book the driving ability test and practical demonstration test
You can book parts three and four online at the link below.
Order you take the tests in
You can take part one and part two in any order. You can also take part three and part four in any order. However, you must pass part one before you can take part three and pass part two before you can take part four.
Taking part one
Part one - you can take the multiple-choice and hazard perception tests in any order, on the same day or on two separate days. Remember, if you are taking both tests on the same day, make sure you leave some time between the two tests.
Receiving your DQC
A DQC will be issued automatically once you have passed the initial qualification. It will be sent to the address on your driving licence, so make sure that your details are up-to-date. If the address is wrong and you are unable to get the DQC from the address on your licence, you will have to complete a DQC1 application form and apply for a duplicate licence at a cost of £25.
Driver CPC periodic training
You must do 35 hours of periodic training every five years to keep your Driver CPC. Changes to the CPC rules mean that drivers should not unnecessarily repeat the same periodic training module within a five year rolling period. A range of different subjects should be covered over the driver’s 35 hours of periodic training. If unnecessary repetition of periodic training occurs, action may be taken against the driver and trainer.
When you don’t need Driver CPC
There are exceptions from the Driver CPC qualification for drivers of certain vehicles. Drivers can move in and out of an exemption, depending on the circumstances in which they are driving.