The CPC (Certificate of Professional Competence), was implemented in the year 2007 after it was passed as an EU Directive in 2003. These regulations are effective on all the drivers of LGV (large goods vehicles) and PCV (passenger carrying vehicles).

Certificate of Professional Competence consist of two parts; that is initial and periodic. The initial part is reserved for all the new drivers who intend to drive the LGV and the PCV on the professional basis. This drivers CPC part provides an extensive knowledge wherein the applicant has to pass a ‘show me tell me’ module four test and case study theory test. Aside from this, candidates also have to pass multiple choice type tests, hazard perception and a driving test. A driver gains full license (CPC card) after passing all these tests and is competent to drive professionally.

The periodic CPC training courses assist in the professional development of all the professional drivers. There is no need for any written test and exams as drivers have to just attend the sessions.

It is mandatory for all the drivers to attend the complete 35 hours of periodic training course so as to keep their CPC card legal and current. With the periodic training, the professional drivers expand on their current knowledge and skills including the ever changing rules and regulations. Wide ranges of topics are covered in this course such as proper loading, safe driving, first aid, driving in difficult weather conditions and so on.

Drivers should attend these periodic CPC training courses that are conducted at the approved training centres. All these courses are duly approved and have their own unique code number for a particular course. On the completion of the 35 hours of training, DSA sends the DCPC card to the address provided on the driving license of the driver. Therefore, it is the responsibility of the driver to notify the DVLA if they move residence so as to keep their driving license current.

The initial uptake for this period training was quite slow but many PSV drivers are now showing enthusiasm for this course as they have just September 2013 as a deadline to get their 35 hours period training. LGV drivers can get this training till September 2014. The costs for such training depends upon the training centre but mostly they are quite reasonable for the training provided by them to the drivers.

It is the duty of the license holder to keep his license updated as required by the law. In case of employers, it is their responsibility to ensure that their fleet drivers have the proper certifications and training as per the law and that none of their drivers drives any vehicle without the card.