VCS Driver Training

What is the 35-Hour CPC Training?

A Driver CPC (Certificate of Professional Competence) is a legal requirement for anyone driving for a living in the UK and the EU. Once you obtain your initial qualification, you must complete 35 hours of periodic training every five years to be able to drive a commercial vehicle professionally.

The 35-hour CPC training course serves to refresh and update your knowledge of road safety, vehicle handling, and your responsibilities as a professional driver. There are no tests or exams, and in fact the 35 hour CPC phase is an interactive classroom or online training that will support you in engaging with your learning, which means high levels of participation and involvement for all drivers.

Time and Course Structure

The total time is 35 hours, usually in 5 7-hour modules, but they can be done in one intensive week or spread out over several weeks, it all depends on your availability.

Most 35 hours CPC training online courses will have options to join from your home and let you complete the modules without going into a training centre distance. However, if you prefer more face to face options, you can search “35 hours CPC training near me” and consider a more convenient option.

Key Module Subjects

Each 7-hour module can cover different subject matters relevant to the professional driving occupation, including:

  • Safe and fuel efficient driving: Very useful techniques to reduce use of fuel and CO2 emissions.
  • Driver safety and wellbeing: Managing fatigue, stress, and mental health while driving on longer routes.
  • Road regulations and compliance: Understanding UK/EU transport law, tachographs, and working hours in compliance.
  • Vehicle maintenance and safety checks: Eliminate preventable breakdowns and understanding of road worthiness requirements.
  • Customer service and professional behaviour: Support coverage for a professional image and the important role of a responsible driver.

At the end of the 35-hour period, your training will be added to the DVSA database, and your Driver Qualification Card (DQC) would be issued or renewed.

Cost of 35 Hours CPC Training

The cost of 35 hours CPC training will vary based on multiple factors such as the provider, format, and location. Below are the factors that affect pricing:

  • Online vs In-Person Training: As online training generally incurs less overhead, it usually costs less than an in-person option.
  • Training Provider: More established providers will typically charge more, as your training may contain better resources and instructors and more support options.
  • Location: If you are looking to book “35 hours CPC training near me,” there can usually be a slight variance depending on the region.

It is always best to compare training providers and if their pricing includes DVSA upload fees to avoid any hidden fees.

Benefits of Completing Your 35 Hours CPC Training

Completing your CPC training is not just about completing the legal minimums. There are a number of professional and personal benefits to your driving career.

  1. Legal Compliance

    If you do not complete a CPC training you could receive up to £1,000 in fines, and could lose the ability to drive professionally. Completing the 35 hours CPC training will ensure your licence and Driver Qualification Card remain valid.

    Note: Failure to comply can lead to fines of up to **£1,000**.
  2. Skills and Safety Awareness

    The training will provide updates on modern transport law, skills in advanced driving, and modern technology used in vehicles today. This is applicable to bus drivers and HGV drivers alike. Being updated is a safety improvement for both the driver and other roadway users.

  3. More Career Options

    Drivers who maintain their CPC are preferred, and being up to date on best practices indicates professionalism and commitment to the role.

Booking the Course: What to Expect

Booking a CPC training is easy and will entail:

  1. Choose Your Format: Either online or in-person, and choose your dates; either with all five modules taking place in one week, or as spread out learning.
  2. Confirm Your Booking: Pre-book with payment of the 35 hours CPC training cost; this confirms your booking.
  3. Attend the Course: Attend all five modules; there are no exams required.
  4. Receive Certification: Your training provider will upload completion to the DVSA system, and your DQC will be a renewed certification.

Most of the more reputable providers will send reminders to book before CPC expiry, so you avoid forgetting to complete your obligation.

Online vs. Face-to-Face CPC Training

When looking into the option of those 35 hours CPC training either online or at a local CPC training provider, it is clear that both options present their own benefits:

Online Training

This option is convenient, usually cheaper, and can be done from anywhere there is internet access. It is a great choice for those that drive for a living and just do not want to dedicate time to it.

In-Person Training

For those that prefer attending class with peers face-to-face, interacting with other students and discussions of real-life case studies, then an in-person option is the best fit.

If you fall into the latter category, just search “35 hours CPC training near me,” to find some local providers that have sessions at the approved training centres for you to attend.

Why Use a Reputable Training Provider

It is important to use of an approved training provider that is credible and is experiencing for accurate and reliable outcomes. A reputable accredited company such as VCS Driver Training or Drivers CPC Courses not only provide fully approved modules, but also experience CPC trainers and sessions that work within your schedule as well.

What to Look For in a Provider:
  • Are JAUPT approved (Joint Approvals Unit for Periodic Training)
  • Included upload fees into the cost of their course
  • Supply an itemized cost breakdown
  • Have responsive customer support

Book Your 35 Hours CPC Training Today

Book today to reserve your spot, provide a refresher to previous knowledge you had or to continue your journey as a professional driver. If you are looking for “35 hours CPC training near me,” seek a reputable approved training provider and enjoy certainty, knowing you completed your 35 hours CPC training.

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