Professional drivers qualification to be launched

A new qualification, The Driver Certificate of Professional Competence (Driver CPC), will be introduced on 10 September for all professional bus and coach drivers.

The DSA is encouraging employers, operators, training providers and new and existing bus and coach drivers to prepare for the requirements.

New drivers wishing to enter the industry will be required to take the Driver CPC initial qualification, which will involve:

• A theory test including multiple-choice questions and a hazard perception assessment.

• A new Driver CPC case studies test.

• An extension of the current practical test to allow more time on a wider variety of roads.

• An additional Driver CPC practical test, which requires candidates to actively demonstrate their knowledge of vehicle safety.

In addition, new and existing drivers will need to complete 35 hours of ‘periodic training’ every five years in order to maintain their Driver CPC status and continue driving professionally.

Existing drivers will not be required to take the initial qualification, but will be required to complete 35 hours of periodic training by 2013 and every five years thereafter.

The second phase of the Driver CPC scheme, which will cover professional drivers of lorries and heavy goods vehicles, will be introduced in September 2009.

Brian Gilhooley, DSA, said: “Bus and coach driving are professions with a high level of responsibility. The different elements of the new test and the ongoing training thereafter will require drivers to demonstrate their knowledge and skill in a real life setting.”

For further information go to: www.transportoffice.gov.uk or contact Michael Watkinson on 0115 936 6136.



18 August 2008