Initial and Driver CPC Explained

Initial CPC: Module 2 Theory Test and Module 4 Practical Test

Driver CPC: 35 hours periodic training (5 days classroom work)

There is a lot of confusion for drivers who do not know if they require Initial or Driver CPC.

You will need to complete Initial CPC if you passed your Car Driving Test (Cat B) after 1 Jan 1997 and your Cat C Test after 10 Sep 2009. When passed, you will then be issued with a Driver Qualification Card (DQC) which will last five years. You will then be required to complete Driver CPC before your DQC expires and every 5 years thereafter.
You can complete Initial or Driver CPC if you passed your Car Driving Test (Cat B) before 1 Jan 1997 and therefore hold Cat C1 on your licence because of acquired (grandfather) rights. You will also need to complete Driver CPC if you passed your Car Driving Test (Cat B) after 1 Jan 1997 but passed your Cat C1 or C Test before 10 Sep 2009. You will then be issued with a Driver Qualification Card (DQC) which will last five years. You will then be required to complete Driver CPC before your DQC expires and every 5 years thereafter.

A good guide is that if you have Cat C1 or Cat C, on your licence prior to 10 Sep 2009, you need Driver CPC. If in doubt, please provide us with the details on your driving licence and we can advise you.

As of Jan 2015, the government is now allowing those drivers who would normally do Driver CPC to choose if they wish to do complete Initial CPC on their first issue of CPC. This option can only be used once.

McPherson Training are pleased to announce that they are an approved centre and able to provide a range of accredited courses.

Please see the Courses Available page for details on the Driver CPC training we offer.