Driver CPC Training
What is Driver CPC?
Driver CPC is a Certificate in Professional Competence for Professional Bus and Truck Drivers. Its purpose is to sort and maintain high standards of safety and driving among drivers of large vehicles (truck & buses).
Driver CPC will be introduced in Ireland on 10th September 2008 for bus drivers and the 10th September 2009 for truck drivers. From these dates on professional on professional drivers will need to take part in continous training.
Note
Driver CPC is not the same as Transport Manager CPC.
Why is the Road Safety Authority implementing Driver CPC in Ireland?
The Road Safety Authority (RSA) is introducing Driver CPC in Ireland because a European Union Law, Directive 2003/59/EU says that professional drivers must get training. At the moment many professional drivers in the EU are working without the benefit of training and any opportunity to refresh their skills.
The RSA has consulted with the transport industry and general public and other EU countries about implementing Driver CPC in Ireland.
How does Driver CPC affect existing drivers holding C/D licenses?
If you had a full license for a truck or bus before the Driver CPC came into force on 10th September 2008 for buses and the 10th Septmber 2009 for trucks, you must start the training for your Driver CPC. Seven hours per year for the next 5 years in order to gain your CPC Card and 35 hours training.
What is Periodic Training?
Periodic Training is training you need to do every year to keep your Driver CPC. All professional drivers must do at least 35 hours training every 5 years and do at least 7 hours a year every 5 years to keep their Driver CPC.
The training is in 7 hour blocks that you must do in one day. The training covers areas such as Road Safety, Environmental Driving and Issues involving the health and well-being of professional drivers. It does not involve a driving test assessment.
Periodic Training will help you improve your knowledge and skills to make sure that you are a driver of the highest professional standard. It will also help you to keep up-to-date with the changes in the industry and to benefit from the training throughout your professional carer.
Who enforces Driver CPC?
An Garda Siochana and the RSA Transport Officers have the powers to enforce Driver CPC under the law.
What happens if I don't obey the rules of Driver CPC?
- If you cannot show your Driver CPC you are breaking the law and you could be fined up to €2000.
- If you use fake documentation you could get a fine of up to €5000.
- If you drive without a valid Driver CPC you could get a fine of up to €2000.
- If you or an employer causes or lets another who does not have a valid Driver CPC drive a relevant vehicle you / they could get a fine of up to €5000.
