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CPC Training

What is CPC Training?

In order to become an HGV or LGV driver you need the proper training. The Driver CPC training is for anyone wishing to drive LGV or PCV vehicles as professionals in the UK. A directive passed by the EU in 2003 made CPC training mandatory. The EU also worked closely to develop and improve driver knowledge and skills to make drivers safer on the roads. There are two parts to the legislation that were passed.

There is an initial qualification stage in which new drivers need to get their vocational licence or HGV licence. The initial qualification for CPC provides the driver with a chance to work professionally because they have passed all proper training including the four training modules.

The second part of the legislation is periodic training. Every five years a driver must go through 35 hours of training.

The four modules which are part of initial CPC training are: theory and hazard awareness, case study, practical driving test, and practical demonstration test. The first module consists of part A and part B. For part A one must get above an 85 per cent on the 100 question written exam. Part B requires at least a 67. Part B is for the hazard awareness section.

Module 2 is a case study in which questions and answers are turned in based on the class room learning one undergoes. A part of all driver training is a practical test in which one shows the skills they have learned in class and applies it to real situations. It is also a driving test that will utilise the skills during the actual driving training. In driver training one learns how to move such a large vehicle like a bus or tractor trailer setup. The practical demonstration test is another set of demonstrative techniques based on driving simulations.

Periodic driver CPC training means one has already undergone the initial training and must prove they are still using what they learned. It is also a way for any new laws that have been passed to be learned. This course typically lasts for 5 days with 35 hours worth of training.

The topics discussed in the periodic training include: advanced training in rational driving for safety, application of regulations, and health, road and environmental safety. Given the frequency drivers are on the road it was determined by the EU that proper training and periodic checkups are needed to ensure the drivers are behaving behind the wheel.

Furthermore, the new laws regarding CPC training were put into effect to limit the number of accidents HGV and LGV drivers are in. Fleet owners are responsible for seeing that their drivers are enrolled and complete all periodic testing throughout their career in order to avoid any liability issues.

Drivers should also take responsibility given the problems that can occur on the roads with so many hours behind the wheel. Drivers can sign up for the training or have their company choose a place to go for the CPC training.