It is mandatory that you must do 35 hours of periodic training every 5 years to keep your Driver Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC) to drive a lorry, bus or coach.

For a variety of reasons many drivers allow their Driver Qualification Card (DQC) to lapse by not completing the required CPC training in time. The most common reason is they simply forget and accidentally let it run out, which in turn causes a panic for drivers who face a fine of up to £1,000 for driving professionally without valid Driver CPC.

From February 2025, a new Return to Driving course was introduced to enable drivers to re-qualify for professional driving in the UK, thanks to a change in to the Driver Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC) Regulations. This allows drivers to get back on the road much quicker.

Who is eligible?

Anyone whose CPC certification expired between 60 days and two years ago can complete a 7-hour course to regain eligibility to drive professionally in the UK.

What are the benefits of completing the course?

On completion of the course drivers gain immediate eligibility to resume professional driving in the UK.
They must then complete 28 further hours of Driver CPC training within 12 months of finishing the course to stay qualified.

As well as those who have accidentally forgot to renew their CPC, the course is perfect for drivers who have taken a short career break or have been put off at the thought of sitting in a classroom for five days but are now looking to return to the industry.

Return to Driving Course

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Course Specifics:

The duration of the initial Return to Driving Course is 7 hours.
Interactive Learning is supported: Up to two hours of e-learning can be integrated into the course time.
Re-qualification without the need for a theory or practical test.
For HGV drivers the course covers: Walk-around checks, safe loading, vulnerable road users, drivers’ hours, and tachographs.

The initiative is a welcome lifeline for the road transport sector. By enabling drivers to return quickly and efficiently, it addresses industry skill shortages while supporting people in re-establishing their careers.