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.
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.
Each 7-hour module can cover different subject matters relevant to the professional driving occupation, including:
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.
Generally speaking, if you commit to a full package of 35 hours, the cost will be between **£200 to £350** including VAT and upload fees.
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:
It is always best to compare training providers and if their pricing includes DVSA upload fees to avoid any hidden fees.
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.
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.
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.
Drivers who maintain their CPC are preferred, and being up to date on best practices indicates professionalism and commitment to the role.
Booking a CPC training is easy and will entail:
Most of the more reputable providers will send reminders to book before CPC expiry, so you avoid forgetting to complete your obligation.
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:
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.
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.
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.
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.