Driver CPC Changes

Introduction

The Driver Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC) is a mandatory qualification for all professional drivers in the UK. It was introduced in 2009 as part of the European Union (EU) Directive 2003/59/EC. The CPC aims to improve road safety, reduce the number of accidents involving commercial vehicles, and enhance the skills and knowledge of professional drivers. The UK government has recently announced changes to Driver CPC which are expected to come into effect in 2023. This essay will discuss the changes and their potential impact on the transport industry and road safety.

Background

Driver CPC consists of two parts: a theory test and a practical test. The theory test covers topics such as road safety, vehicle maintenance, and driver hours. The practical test assesses the driver's ability to operate a commercial vehicle safely and efficiently. Once a driver has passed both tests, they are awarded a CPC qualification, which is valid for five years. To maintain the qualification, drivers must complete 35 hours of periodic training every five years.

The current system has faced criticism from some drivers and industry groups, who argue that the training is repetitive and does not adequately prepare drivers for the challenges they face on the road. There have also been concerns about the cost of training, which can be a significant burden for small businesses and self-employed drivers.

Changes to Driver CPC

The UK government has announced a series of changes to Driver CPC, which are designed to address some of these concerns and improve the effectiveness of the training. The changes include:

1. Introduction of online training

Drivers will be able to complete some of their periodic training online, which will provide greater flexibility and reduce the need for time away from work.

2. More practical training

There will be a greater emphasis on practical training, including on-road assessments, to ensure that drivers are better prepared for the realities of driving a commercial vehicle.

3. More tailored training

Training providers will be required to offer more tailored training courses, which are better suited to the specific needs of individual drivers and businesses.

4. Greater focus on road safety

The training will be updated to include more information on road safety, including the dangers of distracted driving, the importance of vehicle maintenance, and the risks associated with driving in adverse weather conditions.

5. Reduced cost

The government has pledged to work with training providers to reduce the cost of training, making it more affordable for small businesses and self-employed drivers.

Impact of the changes

The changes to Driver CPC are expected to have a significant impact on the transport industry and road safety. By introducing more practical and tailored training, drivers should be better prepared for the challenges they face on the road, which could lead to a reduction in accidents and improved road safety. The greater emphasis on road safety in the training is also likely to have a positive impact on driver behaviour, encouraging them to adopt safer driving practices.

The introduction of online training is likely to be particularly beneficial for small businesses and self-employed drivers, who may find it difficult to take time away from work for training. The reduced cost of training is also likely to be welcomed by the industry, although it remains to be seen how much of a reduction will be achieved.

Conclusion

The changes to Driver CPC announced by the UK government are a positive step towards improving road safety and addressing some of the concerns raised by the transport industry. By introducing more practical and tailored training, drivers should be better prepared for the challenges they face on the road, which could lead to a reduction in accidents and improved road safety. The greater emphasis on road safety in the training is also likely to have a positive impact on driver behaviour, encouraging them to adopt safer driving practices.

EP Training has been providing good quality Driver CPC since 2008. They are a DVSA Approved Driver CPC Periodic and Initial training and testing centre.

Whether you require classroom, online or initial Driver CPC, EP will provide you with the solution to get the result you need.

All Driver CPC courses can be booked online via our website.

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