DVSA Introduces New Tests for Drivers—Failing Could Cost You Your Licence

The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) has introduced new requirements for professional drivers seeking to return to work after their Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC) has expired. Under the new system, those whose CPC expired between 60 days and two years ago now have four different routes to regain their qualification.

These changes aim to make it easier for drivers to return to the profession, particularly as the UK faces ongoing driver shortages in the transport and logistics sectors. However, the requirement to carry a valid CPC card while driving commercially remains unchanged, and failing to do so can result in a £50 penalty.

What Are the Four New Routes to Requalify?

Drivers with an expired CPC now have four distinct options to get back on the road, depending on their work location and urgency.

1. International Driver CPC Training (35 hours): Completing 35 hours of training will reinstate the ability to drive both in the UK and the EU.
2. National Driver CPC Training (35 hours): Completing 35 hours of UK-specific training allows drivers to work only within the UK.
3. Return to Driving CPC (7-hour module + extra training): A faster route, where drivers can regain UK qualification immediately after a 7-hour course, but must complete an additional 28 hours of training within 12 months to drive in the EU.
4. Combination of National & International CPC (7-hour module + 28 additional hours): This includes the same 7-hour course, followed by 28 extra hours of either National or International CPC training within a year to maintain full qualification.

The DVSA clarified:
“You’ll get your Driver Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC) card when you’ve done 35 hours of periodic training or completed a Return to Driving CPC course. The card is sometimes called a ‘driver qualification card’ or ‘DQC’.”

Why Has the DVSA Introduced These Changes?

The new requalification options aim to help drivers return to work more efficiently, especially given the shortage of professional drivers in the UK. Many drivers have left the industry due to expired CPC qualifications, and the new system provides more flexibility in how they regain their licences.

However, despite these new pathways, the requirement to carry a valid CPC card remains in place. The DVSA warns that failing to have a valid card while driving a lorry, bus, or coach professionally can lead to a £50 fine. Additionally, drivers who complete their training too early will not receive their new CPC card until their current card is close to expiration.

The DVSA stated:
“You must carry this card while driving a lorry, bus, or coach professionally. You can get a £50 fixed penalty for driving professionally without your card. You must replace your card if it’s lost or stolen.”

What Happens If Drivers Do Not Renew Their CPC?

If a driver’s CPC has been expired for more than two years, they will not be eligible for the new requalification options and must complete a full CPC training programme from the beginning. This could mean longer delays and higher costs, making it crucial for those affected to act before they reach this threshold.

For drivers whose CPC is still valid, the best way to avoid disruptions is to complete their 35 hours of training well before their card expires. The DVSA advises that training completed more than a year in advance will only count toward renewal closer to the expiration date.

What Drivers Should Do Next

• Check CPC expiry date and determine if requalification is required.
• Choose the most suitable route based on where they plan to drive (UK or EU).
• Complete necessary training before their CPC has been expired for two years to avoid additional requirements.
• Ensure they carry a valid CPC card to avoid penalties while working.

The new options provide greater flexibility, but drivers must act quickly to take advantage of these pathways before their CPC expiry reaches two years.