DGSA training courses

The European Agreement concerning the International Carriage of Dangerous Goods by Road requires organisations involved in the transport, distribution and loading of dangerous goods consigned by road to have an appointed and qualified DGSA.

DGSAs are required to take and pass the Scottish Qualifications Authority (SQA) examinations and be issued with a Vocational Training Certificate (VTC) before taking up their duties. Every DGSA must pass the approved examinations. The VTC is valid for 5 years and must be renewed before its expiry date.

Please note: The SQA oversees all DGSA exams, so you must book your examinations directly with the SQA. Examinations are not included as part of your course fees, and we are not permitted to book exam dates on your behalf.

You can purchase ADR/DGSA 2025 Manual Volumes 1&2, which you will need to use when studying for your exams, from our online shop.

Should any of your drivers need to obtain an ADR qualification, please note that we are also a leading provider of a full range of ADR training courses, including; 3.5 day Core & Packages courses; 5 day Core Packages & Tanks courses, 1.5 day Tanks Add-on courses and specialist 1 day courses for ADR Class 1 – Explosives, and ADR Class 7 – Radioactives.

 If the drivers under your supervision carry only limited quantities of dangerous goods, or you need dangerous goods awareness training for other team members who handle or provide administration for dangerous goods, but do not drive for your organisation, we can also provide Dangerous Goods Awareness Training courses, either at our premises or at your own site.

DGSA Training - Frequently Asked Questions

• Who needs a DGSA qualification?

  From January 2023, all consignors, including those previously classified as a 'consignor-only', have been required to employ a Dangerous Goods Safety Adviser (DGSA). This means that if you deal with dangerous goods but did not previously have a DGSA, you may now be required by law to appoint one.

  If handling dangerous goods forms a significant part of your business, you may prefer to employ your own DGSA directly. Alternatively, you can employ a DGSA as a consultant. We can help with both options. Call us on 01376 522999 for advice and guidance.

• Can I book a Dangerous Goods Safety Advisor (DGSA) course on your website?

  All our DGSA courses are available to book online. Please click here to see available dates and book a course.

• How often do I need to renew my DGSA qualification?

  The DGSA qualification must be renewed every five years.

• Can I also take my DGSA examinations with Novadata?

  You can attend a DGSA training course at our training centre in Braintree, but your DGSA examinations must be booked directly with the examination board, Scottish Qualifications Authority (SQA), who will issue successful candidates with a Vocational Training Certificate (VTC). You must have a VTC before taking up your duties as a Dangerous Goods Safety Advisor.