Clarification on future exemptions to the Driver Certificate of Professional Competence (Driver CPC) requirement has been called for by the British Vehicle Rental and Leasing Association (BVRLA).

Driver CPC qualifications are set to become mandatory for all members of the haulage and freight profession, but BVRLA wishes to see exemptions made for small vehicle users travelling as part of day-to-day business activities but who do not transport passengers or goods.

Current plans are for those who travel less than 50 km from their company's base of operations to be made exempt, but the organisation hopes this distance rule will be lifted in full prior to the new regime being introduced in September.

BVRLA chief executive Gerry Keaney commented: "We understand that the department is doing it all can to fast-track the changes, but with only weeks before the legislation comes into force, it's paramount that the department clears up this uncertainty."