Professional Competence
New EU Directive Comes Into Force
Drivers of buses, coaches and minibuses now need to hold a Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC) in addition to their driving licence. The requirement is regardless of whether the vehicle is used for hire or reward. Lorry drivers will need the CPC by 10 September 2009.
According to direct.gov.uk, the CPCs “is aimed at improving road safety by providing better qualified drivers to help reduce road casualties. It should also bring an improved professional and positive image to the industries, attracting more people to drive buses, coaches and lorries for a living.”
The CPC will require 35 hours of training! However, don’t panic; drivers have 5 years from September 2008 to complete the training necessary to gain the necessary CPC qualification.
Those not driving for hire or reward, and those holding a community bus permit, are exempt from the requirement.
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