New Lorry Driver Tests Brought In

• News
• Published: 02 Sep 2009 in Motoring and Van Insurance

New European regulations lorry drivers are set to come into force that will see drivers have to prove their knowledge of safety and security issues every five years.

The Driver CPC (Certificate of Professional Competence) is a training period of 35 hours where drivers will sit a theory test and a practical test, demonstrating their knowledge of safety and security related issues. Lorry drivers are required to maintain their Driver CPC every five years.

New lorry drivers will need to acquire a Driver CPC Initial Qualification, as well as holding the relevant vocational driving licence, after September 10. New drivers will be able to prepare for the CPC tests and the existing licence acquisition tests at the same time, minimising any additional costs.

"The qualification aims to improve road safety and will ensure that all new drivers coming into the industry have the necessary knowledge and skills to cope with the ever-increasing changes and demands facing the industry," said environment minister Edwin Poots.