The new system went live from 3 December and incorporates a review of training requirements to attain a Driver CPC including an ‘easier access’ course designed for drivers who only operate within the UK.
The new National Driver CPC (N-DCPC) system changes the way in which training is undertaken – the courses are now run in 3.5-hour blocks rather than the previous seven-hour sessions, while some aspects of the CPC qualification can now be completed via e-learning instead of being trainer led. However, drivers are still required to undertake 35 hours of training.
Greg Ford, head of corporate at RED Training, said: “This is a sensible move to offer easier access to the HGV driving industry at a time when logistics companies are struggling to find qualified drivers. Our experience in delivering Driver CPC training shows that the shorter time blocks will make this easier for new recruits to get their training in a more accessible way.”
Ford also welcomed the decision not to water down the overall requirements to attain this qualification.
He added: “High-quality training to drive HGVs is essential for road safety, something we at RED are committed to.”