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Everything you need to know about driver CPC
Updated: Apr 18
Once you complete all of the CPC you will be a HGV driver. Driver Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC) is one of the most important things. Once completed you get a CPC driver's card. This is valid for 5 years.
There are a 2 things to consider with driver CPC.
The first modules you need to do to become a HGV driver
The periodic driver training
CPC to become a HGV driver
There are 4 modules you need to complete.
CPC Part 1 - The Theory Test
Firstly, you need to do your theory test. Once you have done your medical and got your HGV provisional entitlement, you can then apply for the theory test.
The Test is made up of 2 parts. Similar to the car theory test.
Multiple choice
Hazard perception
The tests are booked separately, but can be done on the same day.
See next weeks blog for top tips to pass the HGV theory test.
CPC Part 2 - Case Studies
Secondly, you can book this once you have your HGV provisional entitlement. The good thing is you don't need to have passed the theory test to apply for this.
There are 7 case studies you go through on a computer. These are basically scenarios you are likely to encounter during your driving career.
The exam takes 1 hour and 15 minutes. You get asked 6-8 question for every case study.
You can book this here.
We will have a blog on how to pass this in the coming weeks.
CPC Part 3 - Driving ability test
Thirdly, the driving ability test is in essence, your driving test.
Your training is normally booked a week beforehand and you pass your test at the end of the week of training.
There are 3 parts to the test.
Vehicle safety questions (show me tell me questions)
Practical road driving with an examiner
Off-road exercises
Show me tell me questions
As part of the CPC part 3 the examiner will ask you a few questions.
These can be found on the DVLA website here.
If you are applying to be able to tow a trailer too the question bank is here.
Practical Road driving assessment
The practical road test is examined by the DVSA examiner. Your training provider will help with training for this.
You get your result immediately. You are allowed 15 or less minor faults. No Serious or dangerous faults.
Off-Road exercises
These are examined by an instructor independent from the one who examined you. It includes the 'S' shape reversing into a bay. Uncoupling and recoupling of trailers too.
CPC Part 4 - Practical demonstration
Lastly, there is a practical demonstration. Normally done through your training centre. You can book it online too.
They will test you on practical things you need to know about the HGV vehicle.
load the vehicle following safety rules and to keep it secure
stop trafficking in illegal immigrants
assess emergency situations
reduce physical risks to yourself or others
do a walkaround vehicle safety check
Each topic is worth 20 points.
To pass you have to score at least 15 out of 20 in each topic area and have an overall score of at least 80 out of 100.
The ongoing Driver CPC training
Once you pass you will get your driver card. This is valid for 5 years.
Having the driver CPC card on you when driving is a legal requirement. Therefore, you MUST always have this with you when you drive a HGV. You have a grace period of 20 days from the date of passing the exam.
When the driver card expires, normally every 5 years. You need to carry out 35 hours of training which you book online (only due to covid 19) or face to face.
There are a number of providers you can find online for this.
Conclusion
Initially, There are 4 different parts to getting the Driver CPC. These include online tests as well as practical tests. However, your training organisation should be able to help guide you through all of these.
You then have a 5 yearly periodic 35 hours classroom based training. This can be done online now, due to covid 19.
In conclusion, this may seem daunting however, the failure rate is really low.
Good luck with your training!
Ultimately, It all starts with your HGV medical.
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Therefore, If you need to book a HGV medical please click here.