Driver Qualification Card and Driver CPC

Receiving a DQC

You need to do your first 35 hours of periodic training before you receive a DQC. On finishing the 35 hours training, a DQC will be issued to you if you at hold a Northern Ireland photocard licence.

For more information on Driver CPC periodic training and receiving a DQC see:

• CPC for new professional lorry, bus and coach drivers

Carrying proof of your Driver CPC status

You must always carry your DQC as evidence of your Driver CPC status while driving professionally. If you don't, you will be liable for penalties.

The Driver CPC is enforced in all European Union (EU) member states. If you are driving in another EU country, you must still hold a valid Driver CPC, and carry your DQC, unless you have an exemption.

Lost and stolen cards - applying for a replacement DQC

If your DQC has been lost, stolen or damaged, you must report it to the Driver & Vehicle Agency (DVA) immediately.

For more information on reporting lost or stolen cards and applying for new cards, see the link below:

• Driver & Vehicle Agency - Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC) section 

There is a £25 fee to replace and issue new cards.

For GB licence holders information is available from the following links:

• Driver CPC: your Driver Qualification Card (DQC) 
• Non UK, EU and third country licence holders within Driver CPC 

Driving while you wait for a replacement

You can continue to drive professionally while you wait for your new DQC to arrive. If it does not arrive within 15 days of you making the application, contact the DVA to confirm your application has been received and is being processed.

You should keep a copy of correspondence and get certificates of posting (which are free of charge for letters posted at a Post Office), as evidence of when you contacted the DVA.

DVA recommends that you let your employer know if your card has been lost or stolen.