Temporary changes to allow bus and lorry drivers who cannot complete compulsory Driver CPC training to continue to drive.

Most professional lorry and bus drivers must complete 35 hours periodic training every 5 years to maintain a Driver CPC card (sometimes called a ‘driver qualification card’ or ‘DQC’).

During the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak it may be difficult for drivers to complete the required training.

The Department for Transport has therefore put in place temporary changes in professional driver qualification requirements

This means that drivers whose Driver CPC card expires in the period from 1 March 2020 to 30 September 2020 can continue driving.

In addition military drivers (who have different training) will be allowed to drive in civilian situations during that period.

Enforcement arrangements

Drivers will not be subject to enforcement action by the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) in respect of the Driver CPC regulations. We have informed police forces of this position.

If you are stopped by an enforcement officer they can check to see that you have previously recently held a Driver CPC or are in the military (including reservists acting under instruction).

Drivers should carry their expired Driver CPC card if they have it.

The drivers that this measure applies to will be required to comply with Driver CPC rules from 1 October 2020.

Where this applies

These changes apply to Great Britain. Arrangements in Northern Ireland are devolved.

For international road transport drivers should have a Driver CPC, unless the type of transport is exempt from the requirements.

The end date will be kept under review. The proposed schedule includes a substantial period to recover missed training, whose duration will need further assessment.

Insurance

Road transport operators will need to check insurance validity, but should not expect any significant change in premiums.

Remote training

Some training will be delivered remotely by commercial providers, via online video platforms. The department encourages drivers to continue to undertake training wherever possible, but not as an activity that needs extra travel and only in compliance with general government advice.

Further details:

https://www.gov.uk/guidance/coronavirus-covid-19-temporary-changes-to-driver-cpc-requirements