From February 2025, a new approach to Driver CPC training has been introduced by the UK Government. This was announced in November 2024, broadening the options for professional drivers to continue their professional development.

There are now two kinds of Driver CPC:

International Driver CPC. This remains exactly the same as the Driver CPC that has been in place since 2008 and is valid for all professional drivers.

National Driver CPC.This is the new option; however, it is not valid for those who drive professionally outside the UK. It includes the following change:

• 3.5-hour modules: Drivers are still required to complete their required 35 hours of training, however they can be in smaller 3.5-hour sessions. As the total is still 35 hours, drivers may need to complete 10 courses

Both International and National DCPC offer more extensive eLearning options, affording even greater training flexibility. Novadata will be offering exciting new eLearning course options very shortly.

Which training courses are right for me?

International Driver CPC

For all drivers, including those who also work and drive outside of the UK, key points:

• Remains the same as the current Driver CPC requirements (just has ‘International’ in the name)
• Drivers need to complete 35 hours of training every 5 years, in blocks of 7 hours
• Courses must be at least 7 hours long, but can be split over 2 consecutive days
• can be run in-person or remotely
• can include e-learning

National Driver CPC

For drivers who only drive and work in the UK, key points:

• Drivers need to complete 35 hours of training every 5 years, which can include shorter 3.5-hour sessions
• must be at least 3.5 hours long
• can be run in-person or remotely
• can include e-learning, or be e-learning only
• Return to Driving (see below)

Also new for 2025 – Driver CPC Return to Driving course

To encourage experienced drivers to return to the industry, the UK Government has introduced a new Return to Driving course, which will allow those whose Driver Qualification Card (DQC)  expired between 60 days and 2 years ago to resume their driving career without delay.

Drivers who complete the new Return to Driving course will be issued with a new DQC, so that they can return to driving, but only within the UK. They are then required to complete a further 28 hours of either National or International Driver CPC training within the first 12 months of returning to driving professionally.

A Return to Driving course will be available from Novadata in the very near future. 

As one of the first approved Driver CPC training centres, we are delighted to be among the first to offer training to meet the new National and International Driver CPC (DCPC) rules.

Click here for Driver CPC for LGV drivers
Click here for Driver CPC for PCV drivers