National and International Driver CPC | Staying Qualified on the Road
What is the Driver CPC? If you drive a lorry, bus, or coach professionally in the UK, you are legally required to hold a Driver
May 2, 2025
If you drive a lorry, bus, or coach professionally in the UK, you are legally required to hold a Driver Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC). This qualification ensures professional drivers maintain high standards of road safety, knowledge, and competence throughout their careers.
Introduced across the EU in 2008 for bus/coach drivers and 2009 for lorry drivers, the Driver CPC requires regular periodic training and is regulated by the DVSA (Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency). Failure to comply can result in fines of up to £1,000.
Since December 2024, the UK introduced a National CPC option, giving greater flexibility for drivers who only work domestically. There are now two clear CPC pathways:
Who needs it?
Drivers operating in both the UK and EU.
Requirements:
Complete 35 hours of periodic training every five years.
Each course must be at least 7 hours long.
If split, a 7-hour course must be completed over two consecutive days.
Up to 12 hours of approved e-learning can count towards the 35-hour total.
This follows the original EU-aligned format and is mandatory for any cross-border commercial driving.
Who needs it?
Drivers operating only within the UK.
Requirements:
Still complete 35 hours of training every five years.
Courses can be as short as 3.5 hours (half-day).
Split courses do not need to be completed on consecutive days.
Providers set their own time limits for completing split sessions.
E-learning is permitted, including fully online courses.
A maximum of 12 hours e-learning counts towards the 35 hours.
This model is more flexible and designed to support the training needs of UK-only drivers.
Stay current with regulations, modern driving techniques, and vulnerable road user awareness.
Demonstrates your commitment to ongoing development and professionalism in the transport industry.
Modules may cover eco-driving techniques that reduce fuel consumption and emissions.
Especially under the National CPC, drivers benefit from shorter sessions and less restrictive scheduling.
Avoid fines and ensure you remain qualified to drive legally for work.
Carry your Driver Qualification Card (DQC) at all times when driving professionally.
Regularly check your training hours and expiry date.
Visit GOV.UK to monitor your CPC training record.
Book courses in good time to stay compliant and avoid last-minute issues. Book Your Course Today
| CPC Type | Suitable For… | Flexibility | Operating Region |
|---|---|---|---|
| International CPC | UK + EU Drivers | Lower | UK & EU |
| National CPC | UK-Only Drivers | Higher | UK Only |
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