Changes to Driver CPC in 2024 and 2025: What You Need to Know

From December 2024, you can stay qualified with either International Driver CPC or National Driver CPC, giving more flexibility for those driving only within the UK.

1. International Driver CPC

This remains unchanged and is required for those driving professionally in both the UK and the EU. Key details include:

• 35 hours of training every 5 years.
• Courses must be at least 7 hours long.
• Up to 12 hours of e-learning is permitted within the 35-hour requirement.

2. National Driver CPC

For those driving only in the UK, National Driver CPC offers more flexibility:

• Courses can be as short as 3 hours 30 minutes.
• Split courses no longer need to be on consecutive days.
• E-learning-only courses are allowed, up to 12 hours total.

Summary of Qualification Options

• International Driver CPC: 35 hours every 5 years to drive in the UK and EU.
• National Driver CPC: 35 hours every 5 years to drive only in the UK.

When you pass your initial Driver CPC tests, you will automatically gain an International Driver CPC valid for 5 years, allowing you to drive in the UK and EU. After that, your periodic training will determine whether you hold an International or National Driver CPC.

If your Driver CPC has expired, the rules for returning to driving will vary based on how long it has been expired.

If Expired for 60 Days to 2 Years, you’ll have 4 options:

1. International Driver CPC Training

• Complete 35 hours of training to drive in the UK and EU.

2. National Driver CPC Training

• Complete 35 hours of training to drive in the UK.

3. International CPC + ‘Return to Driving’ Module

• Take a 7-hour ‘return to driving’ module.
• Complete 28 hours of International CPC training within 12 months to drive in the EU.

4. National CPC + ‘Return to Driving’ Module

• Take a 7-hour ‘return to driving’ module.
• Complete 28 hours of National or International CPC training within 12 months to stay qualified.

If Expired for More Than 2 Years

The process remains unchanged:

• Complete 35 hours of training (International or National CPC) before returning to professional driving.

Driver CPC cards remain mandatory for professional drivers. From December 2024, the card you receive will depend on the qualification you hold:

• International Driver CPC Card: No changes; same as the current design.
• National Driver CPC Card: New design marked with “DOMESTIC UK USE ONLY”.

If you are qualified for both HGVs and buses or coaches, you can hold both types of cards.

If your Driver CPC renewal deadline is approaching before 3 December 2024, you must meet the current requirements. Failure to comply may result in a fine of up to £1,000.

For training options, check with Wetherby Training, where we offer tailored courses to meet your needs, whether you require International or National Driver CPC.

Stay informed and plan ahead to ensure your qualifications meet the updated regulations.

Find out more or book your Driver CPC training with Wetherby Training today!

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