The Qualification Explained
What Is Driver CPC Training?
Driver CPC training is a legal requirement for professional HGV and PCV drivers in the UK and EU. In short, the Certificate of Professional Competence ensures every driver of a large vehicle keeps their skills current.
The European Union introduced the qualification in 2008 to raise safety standards across the transport sector. Since then, the DVSA has overseen the scheme in the UK. Consequently, drivers must complete 35 hours of approved training every five years to renew their Driver Qualification Card (DQC).
35 hrs
Required every 5 years
Spread across as many sessions as you need, or complete in one week.
2008
When CPC was introduced
EP Training has been delivering JAUPT-approved CPC since the qualification launched.
Legal Requirement
Why Is Driver CPC Mandatory?
Without a valid DQC, you cannot legally drive an HGV or PCV professionally in the UK. Employers must also ensure their drivers hold valid DQCs before allowing them on the road. Therefore, keeping your CPC up to date protects both your licence and your employer's operator licence.
Practical value too. Each module covers a real topic — from tachograph law to load security to protecting cyclists in urban areas. As a result, drivers who complete regular CPC training are better prepared for the hazards they face every day.
Duration & Flexibility
How Long Does Driver CPC Training Take?
Each Periodic CPC module runs for seven hours. You need five modules to reach the full 35 hours. However, you do not have to complete them all in one go.
EP Training runs courses every other week throughout the year. You can spread your five modules across the full five-year period if that suits your schedule. Alternatively, you can complete all 35 hours in a single consecutive week for £350 — by far the most efficient option.
💡Best value tip: Book the 5-day package at £350 and complete your full 35-hour cycle in one week. Individual modules are also available at £75 each if you prefer to spread them out.
New to Professional Driving
Initial Driver CPC — Module 4
Not all drivers qualify for Periodic CPC training. If you do not meet the eligibility criteria above, you may need to complete Initial Driver CPC instead. EP Training is a DVSA-approved centre for Initial CPC Module 4 training and exams. The course takes one day.
📋Not sure which route applies to you? Call the EP Training team on 01372 450 800. They will confirm whether you need Initial or Periodic CPC before you book.
Can't Take Weekdays Off?
Driver CPC Weekend Courses
Some drivers cannot take time off during the week. EP Training runs weekend courses on Saturdays and Sundays throughout the year to help. These sessions cover the same JAUPT-approved content as weekday courses.
Weekend places fill up quickly. Early booking is strongly recommended. Call
01372 450 800 to check the next available weekend date.
Earn More in Less Time
Combining Driver CPC With Other Qualifications
You can also earn Driver CPC hours through other approved training. In both cases below, you gain two qualifications at once — saving time and money.
35 hrs
5-Day ADR Course
A five-day ADR dangerous goods course at EP Training earns the full 35 hours of CPC credit alongside your ADR licence.
14 hrs
2-Day ALLMI Lorry Loader
A two-day ALLMI Lorry Loader course earns 14 hours of CPC credit while also qualifying you to operate lorry-mounted cranes.
Local & Online
Driver CPC Training in Surrey
EP Training operates from The Old Library, Great Bookham, Leatherhead, Surrey KT23 4LR. The centre has trained over 20,000 HGV and PCV drivers since 2008. Furthermore, it holds excellent reviews on Google, Trustpilot, and Facebook.
EP Training delivers all Periodic CPC modules online via video conferencing. However, the centre also welcomes drivers in person if online access is a problem.
Guildford Woking Leatherhead Epsom Reigate Redhill Staines Camberley Dorking Cobham
Drivers from all of these areas regularly attend EP Training courses — both online and in person at Great Bookham.
Ready to Get Started?
How to Book a Driver CPC Course
Booking is straightforward. Select your course and preferred date using the booking tool above, then click Book Now. Payment is secure and processed immediately.
You can also call the EP Training team on 01372 450 800 for advice on which modules you still need to complete. The team will check your existing CPC record and recommend the right courses.
📞Lines open Monday – Friday, 8 am – 5 pm. You can also email info@eptraining.co.uk and the team will respond the same working day.
