DCPC changes given the green light

Changes to the Driver Certificate of Professional Competence (DCPC) got the green light from Parliament at the end of October, and Logistics UK is calling it a win for road safety in the UK. One of the main updates is cutting the minimum length of training modules from seven hours to 3.5 hours, though the total training time is still 35 hours. Other tweaks include separating e-learning from trainer-led courses, allowing more flexibility for end-of-module assessments, and introducing a faster route for drivers returning to the industry.

Chris Yarsley, Logistics UK’s senior policy manager for road freight regulation, said: “The revisions to the Driver CPC ensure road safety is maintained while introducing much-needed flexibility into the training regime that will help retain drivers and ease the process for those returning to the industry. “Our members have never questioned the need for the Driver CPC regime and welcome the reputation which attaining the current standard bestows on their businesses and their drivers. “The revised DCPC still requires 35 hours of training, but now the minimum course length has been reduced, it will make scheduling training less burdensome for drivers and operators, while ensuring training material is focused and relevant.”

He added: “Reforming the role of e-learning will increase flexibility for operators and the option to retain full trainer-led periodic courses means those drivers who are not comfortable with e-learning will still have access to face-to-face training.”

Yarsley also supported the change allowing qualified drivers with expired DCPCs to take an accelerated route back to driving, instead of completing 35 hours of training.

However, he cautioned: “It is, however, critical any form of ‘return to driving’ module is of the same rigorous standard as other DCPC modules to ensure returning drivers are aware of any changes in safety-critical legislation, such as drivers’ hours and load security.”