The much-anticipated Driver CPC reforms have been confirmed to take effect on Tuesday, 3 December 2024. Following recent debates in Parliament, these changes aim to provide greater flexibility and efficiency for drivers and operators in the UK. However, the reforms may also present challenges for training providers, particularly in adapting to the likely increased demand for e-learning and blended courses versus the current classroom and remote sessions. Let’s break down the key updates and what they mean for you.
Key Reforms to Driver CPC
- International Driver CPC
- International Driver CPC is the new name for how Driver CPC previously worked. Drivers will still need to complete 35 hours of International Driver CPC training every 5 years to drive both in the UK and the EU. There are no changes to how it operates. This means:
- Courses must be at least 7 hours long.
- If a course is split, it must be completed over 2 consecutive days.
- Drivers can complete up to 12 hours of their required 35 hours through approved e-learning courses
- International Driver CPC is the new name for how Driver CPC previously worked. Drivers will still need to complete 35 hours of International Driver CPC training every 5 years to drive both in the UK and the EU. There are no changes to how it operates. This means:
- National Driver CPC (NDCP) Introduction
- A new National Driver CPC will cover driving a lorry, bus, or coach within the UK. This simplified certification aims to make it easier for drivers to comply without needing additional international endorsements, streamlining the process for UK-based operators.
- Blending National and International Driver CPC
- The reforms allow more flexibility by permitting drivers to combine National Driver CPC training with International Driver CPC training within their required 35 hours of periodic training. This means if a driver needs certification for both domestic and international driving, they can blend both types of training to meet their 5-year requirement. This approach offers a tailored training plan, catering to drivers who may need to operate across borders.
- Flexible 3.5-Hour Training Blocks
- One of the most significant updates is the option to complete Driver CPC training in blocks of 3.5 hours, rather than the traditional 7-hour sessions. This new approach aims to allow drivers more flexibility, making it easier to fit training around their work schedules.
- Expanded Use of E-Learning
- Under the new rules, e-learning is now a fully recognised option for National Driver CPC training, offering even greater flexibility. However, drivers can only complete up to 12 hours of their required 35 hours of periodic training via approved e-learning courses. For example, you might choose to take three separate 3.5-hour e-learning modules, which could be completed at home or at the workplace. The remaining 23 hours must be completed through in-person or blended training to ensure comprehensive coverage of key topics.
- As part of these changes, TMlearning, our sister training company, will be launching e-learning options for the National Driver CPC (NDCP) in the New Year. This new offering will allow drivers to complete their training online. Our Consortium Members will be able to make use of TMlearning, I will be providing more info on how this will work in due course.
- Accelerated Return for Expired Driver CPC
- Starting on 1 February 2025, a new measure will help drivers return to driving more quickly if their Driver CPC has expired. This streamlined process will be a welcome change for experienced drivers needing to renew their certification.
- Introduction of a Periodic Test for Driver CPC
- The results from the 2023 consultation on the introduction of a test were mixed and DfT will continue to keep under review the possibility of the introduction of a periodic test.
What This Means for Training Providers
The downside is that while the Driver CPC reforms offer increased flexibility for drivers, they pose challenges for training providers. The expended use of e-learning from classroom and remote sessions could lead to reduced demand for full-day, in-person courses, potentially impacting revenue. Additionally, the need to develop comprehensive e-learning content will require investment in new tech.
Last point, the shift towards e-learning could lead to less engagement and reduced face-to-face interaction, potentially affecting the quality of training and the overall learning experience. We shall see how the reforms pan out over the coming year.
Learn More
For more details on these changes, visit the dedicated Driver CPC reforms page on GOV.UK. Keep an eye on our blog for further updates and insights on how these reforms will impact the industry.
If you’re planning to update your Driver CPC training, stay tuned for further announcements. TMlearning will be rolling out new e-learning courses for Driver CPC in early 2025.
If you have any questions, please feel free to get in touch. Here to share the knowledge!