Driver CPC (Certificate of Professional Competence) is a legal requirement for professional HGV and PCV drivers in the UK. But many drivers are confused about what counts towards their 35-hour requirement, what doesn't count, and how the 5-year cycle works. This guide explains everything you need to know about Driver CPC hours in 2026.
What Is Driver CPC?
Driver CPC is a qualification required for professional drivers of large goods vehicles (Category C, C1, C+E, C1+E) and passenger-carrying vehicles (Category D, D1, D+E, D1+E) who drive for hire or reward or as part of their employment. It was introduced across the EU (and retained in the UK post-Brexit) to improve road safety and professional standards.
There are two parts to Driver CPC:
- Initial CPC: Required when you first obtain your professional driving licence. Consists of two theory tests (multiple choice and case studies) and two practical tests (driving ability and practical demonstration).
- Periodic CPC: 35 hours of approved training every 5 years to maintain your Driver Qualification Card (DQC).
How Does the 35-Hour Requirement Work?
You must complete 35 hours of periodic CPC training within each 5-year cycle. The training must be delivered in modules of at least 7 hours (one full day), though shorter sessions can be combined to make up 7 hours. You cannot complete all 35 hours in one week — the training must be spread over the 5-year period, though there is no minimum frequency requirement.
Hours are recorded on your DVSA driver smart card and uploaded to the DVSA database by the training provider. You can check your hours online at GOV.UK.
What Counts Towards CPC Hours?
Only training delivered by a DVSA-approved CPC training centre counts towards your 35 hours. Approved training covers a wide range of topics, including:
- Safe and fuel-efficient driving techniques
- Tachograph rules and drivers' hours
- Health and safety in transport
- Customer service and communication
- Load securing and vehicle checks
- Emergency first aid
- Transport legislation and compliance
- Mental health and wellbeing for drivers
What Does NOT Count Towards CPC Hours?
The following do not count towards your 35-hour CPC requirement:
- On-the-job training or induction programmes (unless delivered by a DVSA-approved centre)
- Toolbox talks or informal safety briefings
- First aid courses not delivered by an approved CPC provider
- Forklift or other non-driving training
- Online courses not delivered by an approved CPC centre
- Training completed before your current 5-year cycle started
Can Online CPC Training Count?
Yes — online CPC training can count towards your 35 hours, but only if it is delivered by a DVSA-approved training centre. Not all online courses are approved. Always check that the provider is DVSA-approved before booking online CPC training.
CPC Exemptions
Some drivers are exempt from Driver CPC requirements. Exemptions include:
- Drivers of vehicles used by the armed forces, police, fire, and ambulance services (emergency use)
- Drivers of vehicles undergoing road tests for technical development or repair
- Drivers of vehicles used for non-commercial carriage of goods for personal use
- Drivers of vehicles used for driving instruction (in certain circumstances)
NHS ambulance drivers are generally exempt from Driver CPC as emergency service vehicles. Private ambulance operators may not be exempt — check with your employer.
What Happens If Your CPC Lapses?
If your DQC expires and you continue to drive professionally, you can be fined up to £1,000 and your employer can also be fined. You must complete the outstanding training hours before you can legally drive professionally again. Your licence is not revoked — you simply cannot use it for professional driving until your CPC is up to date.
CPC Training at GS Driver Training
GS Driver Training is a DVSA-approved CPC training provider. We offer a range of 7-hour CPC modules in Surrey, covering tachograph rules, drivers' hours, health and safety, and more. Call us on 01252 447808 to book your CPC training.
Related Guides
- How to Check Your Driver CPC Hours
- Tachograph Rules for HGV Drivers
- HGV Licence Cost UK: Complete Breakdown 2026
