Defining CPC Training
Let’s begin by understanding what CPC training is all about. The premise of driving a large vehicle is risky and it’s something only a professionally trained driver can handle. This is why a lot of effort is put into training for HGVs, training drivers and professionalising the system as much as possible. The government has designed consistent regulations to make sure all drivers go through CPC training (the Driver Certificate of Professional Competence) before getting behind the wheel. This is required based on EU regulations for all bus and coach drivers since 2008.
With CPC training, the goal is to make sure all drivers have the necessary qualifications to use a large vehicle such as a bus, coach, or lorry.
It is designed to have two parts. The first part involves a basic qualification for new drivers, while the second part is designed to renew the CPC with set training every 5 years (35 hours minimum).
Since this is a legal requirement, all professional drivers are expected to hold these licenses before driving.
Who Doesn’t Require a Driver CPC?
While it is rare, there are times where a driver may not require a Driver CPC.
This can include those driving vehicles that are carrying heavy goods for non-commercial reasons (i.e. moving trucks from home A to home B). Since this is non-commercial and you are doing it for yourself, there’s no need for CPC training.
Another reason can be those who are going to be carrying equipment that will be used for additional work. This means driving isn’t the main source of incoming and isn’t the main reason for getting behind the wheel. This can also happen for those driving empty buses from one part of town to another. In these cases, you have to make sure nothing is carried in the vehicle include passengers.
What is CPC Training All About?
To get started, the drivers will go through set modules (4), which are designed to test their understanding of the rules. This can include practical tests to determine the driver’s knowledge. Once these modules are concluded, the driver moves onto professional training, which is specialised for their requirements.
The following layout is used for all CPC training:
- Theory Test – a standard test required to acquire a driver’s license
- Practical Test – a standard driving ability to test required to obtain a driver’s license
- Case studies – specialised testing involving road-related scenarios a driver may face
- Practical Test – a specialised test to pinpoint whether or not a driver understands the fundamentals of driving a large vehicle
Once these steps have been completed, the driver will be ready to go with their CPC license. It is also important to note for renewals, the driver has to go through 35 hours of testing, which will include different CPC modules. This training doesn’t have an exam. In general, the driver will be expected to do is attend training, go through the various CPC modules, put in their hours, and then gain the renewal. It’s important to make sure this is done every five years as legally expected. For more information on the modules, feel free to head online and take a look.
It’s smart to have the following items ready to go before heading over for CPC training:
- Digital Technograph Card
- Valid Passport
- Driver’s license
- Driver CPC Card
Advantages of CPC training
Safer Driving
The goal is to create a safer driver and that is what CPC training is all about. It teaches drivers how to react on the road while handling a larger vehicle.
Eco-Friendly
CPC training is not just about how to drive but also making sure eco-friendly decisions are made behind the wheel. This is good for everyone including the environment because it reduces the amount of pollution in the country.
Improves Your Resume
Since this is a mandatory requirement for drivers, the average employer will want someone that is already trained. It reduces the amount of effort needed on their part to prepare the driver before allowing them behind the wheel of a bus, lorry, or coach. Since there is demand for this type of driver, it’s best to be trained before applying.