From 1 February 2025, professional drivers in the UK will have access to a new ‘Return to Driving’ course, introduced as part of updates to the Driver Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC) regulations. The course aims to make it easier for drivers to requalify and return to work, while also helping to address driver shortages in the industry.
The reforms, announced by the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) and developed in collaboration with the Road Haulage Association (RHA), provide new options for drivers whose Driver CPC certification expired between 60 days and two years ago.
Under the new scheme, drivers whose Driver CPC certification expired between 60 days and two years ago are eligible to complete a seven-hour ‘Return to Driving’ course to regain their professional driving status. Upon completion, they will receive a one-year National Driver CPC card, allowing them to resume professional driving immediately. During this one-year period, drivers must complete an additional 28 hours of training to maintain their qualification.
According to the RHA, the course is designed to offer flexibility and convenience, including:
- Duration: Seven hours, which can be split across two consecutive days.
- Learning format: Options for in-person sessions or remote learning, with up to two hours of e-learning integrated.
- No retests: Drivers can requalify without taking a theory or practical test.
The course content focuses on essential skills for drivers returning after a career break, ensuring they remain safe, compliant, and informed. Topics include:
- HGV drivers: Walk-around checks, safe loading, vulnerable road users, drivers’ hours, and tachographs.
- Bus and coach drivers: Passenger safety, disability awareness, vulnerable road users, drivers’ hours, and tachographs.
Drivers whose CPC certification expired over two years ago will continue to follow the existing process, which requires completing 35 hours of CPC training.