Driver CPC Training: What UK HGV Drivers Need to Know in 2026
The Driver Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC) periodic training requirement — 35 hours every 5 years — is mandatory for all professional HGV and bus drivers in Great Britain. When does your deadline fall? What happens if you miss it? And who pays?
What is Driver CPC periodic training?
The Driver CPC (also called periodic training or the "35-hour requirement") requires all professional drivers of categories C1, C1E, C, CE, D1, D1E, D and DE to complete 35 hours of training every 5 years. This is split across five 7-hour modules.
Once completed, a new Driver Qualification Card (DQC) is issued by DVSA and is valid across all EU/EEA countries (and Great Britain under domestic law post-Brexit).
When does your DQC expire?
Your expiry date is printed on your Driver Qualification Card. You can also check it on the DVSA website using your driving licence number.
Important: Don't miss the deadline!
If your DQC expires, you are legally prohibited from driving professionally in a vehicle over 3.5 tonnes. Driving without a valid DQC is a criminal offence and can result in a fine of up to £1,000. Employers can also face prosecution.
What does Driver CPC training cost?
Prices vary by provider and location. Online providers are often cheaper — but confirm your employer or the DWP will accept them before booking.
Who pays for Driver CPC training?
Your employer — the most common case
Most UK logistics firms pay for CPC training since it's in their interest to keep licensed drivers. DHL, Amazon, Royal Mail and Eddie Stobart routinely cover all training costs. Always ask when applying.
DWP / Jobcentre Plus
If you are jobseeking or on Universal Credit, you may be eligible for a Skills Bootcamp or Sector-based Work Academy Programme (SWAP) that funds CPC training. Speak to your work coach directly.
The 5 approved module categories
- 1Advanced driving techniques & fuel efficiency
- 2Health, road safety & environmental awareness
- 3Logistics and load security
- 4Customer service and the professional image
- 5Regulations: tachographs, drivers' hours & transport law
You don't need to complete all five modules in one go — they can be spread across the 5-year period. However, all 35 hours must be completed before your DQC expiry date.
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