The government has released guidance confirming temporary changes to allow bus and lorry drivers who cannot complete compulsory CPC training to continue to drive.

Most professional lorry and bus drivers must complete 35 hours periodic training every 5 years to maintain a driver qualification card (DQC). During the coronavirus outbreak it may be difficult for drivers to complete the required training.

The Department for Transport has therefore put in place temporary changes in professional driver qualification requirements

This means that drivers whose DQC expires in the period from 1 March 2020 to 30 September 2020 can continue driving.

In addition military drivers (who have different training) will be allowed to drive in civilian situations during that period.

Drivers will not be subject to enforcement action by the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) in respect of the DCPC regulations. We have informed police forces of this position.

If you are stopped by an enforcement officer they can check to see that you have previously recently held a CPC or are in the military (including reservists acting under instruction).

Drivers should carry their expired DQC if they have it.

The drivers that this measure applies to will be required to comply with driver CPC rules from 1 October 2020.

More information on these temporary changes can be found here.