One of the most common questions professional drivers ask is: “How many CPC hours do I actually need?” If you’re an HGV, bus or coach driver, understanding the Driver CPC requirements is essential for staying legal and protecting your livelihood.
Most professional drivers must complete 35 hours of Driver CPC training every five years.
Once you’ve completed the required training, your qualification is renewed for another five years.
What Is Driver CPC?
Driver CPC stands for Driver Certificate of Professional Competence.
It is a qualification designed to ensure professional drivers maintain safe, up-to-date knowledge and skills throughout their careers.
The requirement applies to most professional:
- HGV drivers
- Lorry drivers
- Bus drivers
- Coach drivers
Why Is It 35 Hours?
The CPC system is designed to encourage continuous professional development rather than a single qualification completed once in a driver’s career.
The current requirement is: 35 hours of approved periodic training within every five-year cycle.
Do I Have to Complete 35 Hours All at Once?
No.
Most drivers complete:
- One 7-hour course each year for five years
or
- Multiple courses during the final year of their cycle.
The training can be spread across the five-year period, allowing drivers to plan around work and family commitments.
What Happens If I Don’t Complete 35 Hours?
If you fail to complete the required training before your deadline:
- Your Driver CPC qualification will expire.
- You cannot drive professionally.
- You could face enforcement action if you continue driving for work.
This is why it’s important to monitor your progress throughout the five-year cycle.
What Courses Count Towards Driver CPC?
Training must be delivered by an approved training provider.
Completing relevant courses can help improve safety, reduce risk and support professional development.
National Driver CPC vs International Driver CPC
Drivers now have different CPC routes depending on where they work.
International Driver CPC
Suitable for drivers operating in both the UK and Europe.
Requires:
- 35 hours of qualifying training
- Courses meeting international CPC standards
National Driver CPC
Suitable for drivers operating within the UK only.
Requires:
- 35 hours of qualifying training
- UK-only professional driving entitlement
When Should I Start My CPC Training?
The best time is now.
Many drivers leave their training until the final few months before expiry. This creates unnecessary pressure and can make it harder to find suitable course dates.
Final Thoughts
For most professional drivers, the rule is straightforward:
Complete 35 hours of Driver CPC training every five years.
By planning ahead and completing your training regularly, you can stay compliant, protect your career and avoid the disruption of an expired qualification.
Looking for Driver CPC Training?
We offer engaging online Driver CPC courses covering a range of topics including Load Security and Transporter Safety, Professional Driving and Vulnerable Road Users, Driver Health and Wellbeing, Drivers’ Hours and Tachographs and Driver Compliance
Browse our upcoming cpc course dates and start building your next 35 hours today.
