What could changes to the training rules for bus, coach and HGV driver training mean for you? In March 2023, the UK government proposed a set of reforms that could make it cheaper to renew or regain your lorry, bus or coach licence. Nothing has been agreed yet, but here are the changes they’re suggesting.
Is the Driver CPC Being Scrapped?
Driver Certificate of Professional Competence (DCPC) isn’t set to be scrapped but the government’s 2023 proposals could change it. The DCPC was adopted across 2008 and 2009 while the UK was part of the EU. Now that the UK has left the EU, the government is looking at ways to change it to respond to industry demands.
What Could New Driver Training Rules Mean for Drivers?
The 2023 consultation is looking at new bus and lorry driver training rules to ease the shortage of drivers in the UK. Nothing is confirmed for now, but we can look at the changes that have been suggested.
The government’s idea is to cut down on the time and expense that puts HGV and bus drivers off joining or staying in the haulage industry. But nothing has been finalised yet, and it would take time to get a new system in place.
How the DCPC Requirements Could Be Changing
To get the DCPC, bus and lorry drivers have to complete a series of test then take another a training course every 5 years. The current Driver CPC requirements include:
- passing multiple choice and hazard perception theory tests
- passing a test using case studies
- passing a practical driving test
- passing a practical demonstration of vehicle operation
- renewing with a 35-hour training course every 5 years
- spending £250-£500 on training every time
Are the costs and time commitments putting drivers off the industry? After all, that’s a lot of hours spent away from your day job while you train and refresh your DCPC.
Getting drivers on board is a big concern, and so is keeping them behind the wheel. The new bus and HGV driver training programme could include:
- e-learning to make bus and HGV driver training more flexible
- simpler processes for HGV and bus drivers to return after their DCPC has lapsed
- limited time extensions for drivers with a lapsed Driver CPC
- a new periodic test lasting 1-1.5 hours
- the new periodic test could cost around £40-£70 per attempt
At the moment, the government is reviewing feedback collected during the Driver CPC changes consultation. You can find the full details online, and find out some of the pros and cons they’re weighing up.
Do I Need a CPC as well as a Category C Licence?
To drive a bus or HGV professionally you need an HGV or bus licence, and the Driver Qualification Card (DQC) you gain after you’ve passed the CPC. You need to meet the requirements for both pieces of paper, including your D4 medical and renewal medical.
If you need a bus or lorry driver medical in the West Midlands, contact My Driver Medical in Central Birmingham. We offer low prices, and your medical will always be carried out by a fully qualified, NHS experienced doctor.