Drivers have been warned they have less than a week to register for new qualifications which will allow them to continue travelling on UK roads.
It comes after the DVSA announced it would overhaul the Driver Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC) regulations last year.
The changes aim to make it simpler for drivers to travel both in the UK and internationally and will require motorists to complete a new seven-hour course to help UK drivers regain CPC qualification.
The course goes live on Saturday, February 1 and can be a vital help for drivers whose CPC certification expired or have taken time off work.
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Drivers must complete a CPC seven-hour training session to obtain their licence
PA
The new shortened course will be available to drivers whose CPC certification expired between 60 days and two years ago.
Upon completing the seven-hour course, drivers will receive a one-year National Driver CPC card, enabling them to immediately resume professional driving.
The scheme offers a significant change from the current system, which requires all drivers with expired certifications to complete 35 hours of training before returning to work. Drivers can choose between obtaining an International Driver CPC, allowing them to drive in both the UK and EU, or a National Driver CPC for UK-only driving.
Chris Yarsley, Logistics UK, Senior Policy Manager said: "Reforming the role of e-learning will increase flexibility for operators and the option to retain full trainer-led periodic courses means that those drivers who are not comfortable with e-learning will still have access to face-to-face training."
The new course offers flexibility in its delivery format, with options for both in-person sessions and remote learning, the DVSA explained.
Drivers can split the seven-hour training across two consecutive days if they prefer. The programme includes the possibility of completing up to two hours through e-learning, allowing participants to study from their workplace or home.
No theory or practical tests are required to re-qualify under this new scheme. The format has been designed with convenience in mind, making it more accessible for drivers looking to return to the profession.
After completing the initial seven-hour course, drivers must undertake an additional 28 hours of training within 12 months to maintain their qualification.
Yarsley added that logistics is not a "one size fits all" sector and there are huge advantages to businesses being able to tailor drivers' training content to suit their business needs.
For HGV drivers, the training focuses on walk-around checks, safe loading, vulnerable road users, drivers' hours and tachographs.
Meanwhile, bus and coach drivers receive specialised training in passenger safety and disability awareness, alongside modules on vulnerable road users, drivers' hours and tachographs. All training is designed to bring drivers up to date with the latest industry standards and safety requirements.
Sally Gilson, RHA Policy Lead for Skills, said: "Our members have been waiting for these changes since the consultation in March 2023. Giving drivers greater choice of how they gain their DCPC was a key reform and recognises the flexibility our hauliers need."
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Drivers are required to keep their CPC qualifications on them at all times while travelling
DVSA
Logistics UK noted that the revisions to the Driver CPC will ensure road safety is maintained while introducing "much-needed" flexibility into the training regime. Drivers will still be required to have their Driver CPC card with them at all times while travelling in the UK and abroad.
