Module 4 Training and Practical Test

Module 2 – Driver CPC case studies test (computer-based exercise with 7 studies based on real-life situations – eg driving in icy conditions)

Module 4 – Driver CPC practical demonstration test (this takes 30 minutes – you will need to show you can keep your vehicle safe and secure, eg loading your vehicle safely)

The initial CPC training is a practical, ‘show me’, ‘tell me’ test conducted at a DSA driving test centre by an examiner, the test is 20-30 minutes long and covers questions in the following areas; Daily walk-around checks, the ability to prevent physical risk, loading and the security of loads, keeping the vehicle secure, emergency procedures, loaded vehicle dynamics, border crossings, and security procedures. This encompasses a wide range of situations typically encountered by drivers and is covered in full by our instructors. CPC for both Passenger Vehicles and Goods Vehicles can be covered by 2 Start.

Who needs it?

The implementation date for LGV’s is the 10th September 2009; and for PCV’s it’s the 10th September 2008. 

• Drivers who qualified for their LGV (C1, C, C+E) after the 10th September 2009* do require the Initial Drivers CPC
• Drivers who qualified for their PCV (D1, D, D+E) after the 10th September 2008* do require the Initial Drivers CPC

*Drivers who passed their car test before 1st January 1997 do not require the initial CPC for Large Goods Vehicles

*Drivers who passed their car test before 1st January 1997 do still require the initial CPC for Passenger Vehicles

All drivers who are driving vehicles over 3.5 tonnes, or with 9 Passenger seats or more; require to do the Periodic CPC (as well as the initial where applicable) – 35 Hours of CPC training every five years.

Exemptions – 

Certain drivers do not require to have the drivers Certificate of Professional Competence  – These are either based on what the vehicle is transporting, or what the vehicle is used for. Drivers are exempt if the vehicle is:

• used for non-commercial carriage of passengers or goods, for personal use;
• undergoing road tests for technical development, repair or maintenance purposes, or of new or rebuilt vehicles which have not yet been put into service; (must be driven by a qualified motor mechanic)
• used in the course of driving lessons for the purpose of enabling that person to obtain a driving licence or a Driver CPC; (must be driven by driving instructors)
• carrying material or equipment to be used by that person in the course of his or her work, provided that driving that vehicle does not constitute the driver’s principal activity**
• with a maximum authorised speed not exceeding 45 km/h; (such as agricultural tractors)
• used by, or under the control of, the armed forces, civil defence, the fire service and forces responsible for maintaining public order;
• used in states of emergency or assigned to rescue missions.

** For example, transporting scaffolding to the drivers place of work. Driving must not become the major part of the work. IE – The work being carried out at the site of work, must be a significantly greater use of time than driving itself.

Below are some videos giving you some insight about what can be expected on your MOD 4 CPC