DVSA has detailed changes to how Driver CPC (DCPC) training is managed to ensure that unnecessary repetition of courses is not undertaken within the same five-year period as part of the 35-hour requirement.
DVSA will now monitor drivers’ records to help it to identify training that it says does not support their professional development because of unnecessary repetition. Where DCPC repetition is identified, DVSA may take action that could include the revocation of a Driver Qualification Card (DQC).
However, in some specific cases, repetition of DCPC courses will be permitted. That will only be the case “when it supports a driver’s development,” the Agency says. It cites as an example of that a qualification for transporting dangerous goods.
DVSA adds that it will also be working with training bodies to ensure that they do not deliver a specific session to the same driver more than once, “unless it is necessary for their professional development.”
The change to how DCPC training may be undertaken has been made following a review and recommendations made by the European Commission, which the government has adopted.
Separately, DVSA will issue new DQCs to drivers who have previously received a seven-month extension of the validity of their existing DQC, where those cards are still valid. The new DQC will display the extended expiry date. They will be sent automatically.
DVSA introduced the seven-month extension to DQC expiry dates in June 2020. It was applied to cards that expired between 1 February-31 August 2020. It remains the case that 35 hours’ training must be completed before the revised expiry date if the DQC is to be renewed at that point.
UK-issued DQCs remain valid to drive to or through EU countries for all journeys that UK-based operators are permitted to carry out under the terms of the recently agreed Brexit deal, it has been confirmed.
