How to Get Your CPC Card- Know All About it

Thinking about driving heavy goods vehicles for a living? Earning your HGV licence is a great start; however, you also need the Driver Certificate of Professional Competence (Driver CPC) to drive lorries, buses or coaches professionally. Your Driver CPC is shown on a Driver Qualification Card (DQC), which you should carry while working.

Who needs Driver CPC?

If you drive a lorry, bus or coach professionally (hire or reward), you need a valid DQC. Some limited exemptions exist, but most commercial drivers are in scope.

Two routes to your CPC card

There are two ways to hold a valid DQC, depending on where you are in your journey.

1) Initial Driver CPC (new professional drivers)

This route runs alongside your licence tests.

Medical & provisional: Complete your driver medical and apply for the correct provisional entitlement.
Theory (Module 1): Multiple choice (1a) and hazard perception (1b) for the licence.
Case Studies (Module 2): Scenario-based theory for the initial CPC (you must pass this before booking Module 4).
Practical tests for the licence:
- Module 3a: Off-road manoeuvres.
- Module 3b: On-road driving.
Practical Demonstration (Module 4): Vehicle safety, load security, emergencies, daily checks (counts toward the initial CPC).

When you’ve passed Modules 1, 3a, 3b (licence) and Modules 2 & 4 (initial CPC), your DQC is issued and posted to the address on your licence.

2) Periodic Driver CPC (existing professional drivers)

Already qualified? Keep your DQC valid by completing 35 hours of periodic training every 5 years (usually in 7-hour blocks). Choose approved courses, keep your records up to date, and you’ll receive your renewed DQC for the next five-year cycle.

While you’re waiting for your CPC card

After you complete the required training/tests and your record updates, you can usually work while your card is on the way. Once the card arrives, you should carry it when driving professionally.

Avoid these common pitfalls

Forgetting the card: You can face a fixed penalty if you drive professionally without it once issued.
Out-of-date address: Your DQC is sent to the address on your driving licence; update it before you finish training.
Lost, stolen or damaged: Apply for a replacement DQC (a fee applies).

Training if you hold a non-GB licence

Live and work in Great Britain but hold a non-GB licence? You can either complete periodic training in GB to obtain a GB DQC or exchange your licence where eligible (for example, if it carries an EU “Code 95” entitlement). For the correct process and forms, contact DVSA.

What you’ll cover in CPC training

Whether initial or periodic, training focuses on real-world safety and professionalism, including:

Road traffic law and responsibilities
Driver health and fatigue management
Vehicle safety, daily walk-round checks and defect reporting
Load security and stability
Emergency and breakdown procedures
Safe, economical driving techniques
Vulnerable road users and situational awareness

GS Driver Training: courses we offer

Choose the pathway that matches your goals; we’ll help you map the rest.

Why train with GS Driver Training?

Because progress feels easier when the environment is right. You’ll learn in well-maintained DAF vehicles, on realistic manoeuvring areas, with friendly, experienced instructors who coach in calm, bite-size steps. Moreover, our HGV Driving Experience at Dunsfold Aerodrome (Cranleigh, Surrey) lets you try a 44-tonne artic in a safe, private setting before you commit.

Ready to get your CPC sorted?

Tell us whether you’re a new entrant or an experienced driver renewing hours, and share a few preferred dates. We’ll confirm availability, explain exactly what you need next, and get you booked—so you can focus on the driving.

Also Read: How to get a PCV Licence

PCV Licence Cost