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Driver CPC Card After You Qualify UK

Once you pass all 4 Driver Certificate of Professional Competence tests you will get your Driver CPC card - often called a 'DQC'. Find out what a DQC card is and how to make a CPC change of address.

Note: The DVSA announced temporary changes to allow bus and lorry drivers to continue driving even if they are unable to complete compulsory Driver CPC training during the coronavirus outbreak (COVID-19).

DRIVER CPC CARD: If you are driving a lorry, bus, or coach professionally you must carry your Driver CPC card with you at all times.

Note: Failing to have your Driver CPC card with you while driving professionally can result in a £50 fixed penalty.

How to get a Driver CPC Card (DQC)

The DVSA will send the card to the address stated on your driving licence. Thus, you will need to change the driving licence address beforehand if it is incorrect.

They will also use the photograph and the signature on a photocard licence. That means you will have the same photograph on your Driver CPC card after you have qualified.

While Waiting for the Card

You qualify for the DQC card once you pass all the CPC modules and tests. That means you would be able to drive for a profession even while you wait for the Driver CPC card to arrive.

Driver CPC Card not Arrived?

As a rule, it takes less than three (3) weeks to get your Driver CPC card after you pass the final test. If you do not receive it within 21 days you should contact the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA).

Driver CPC Card Replacement
Mail: [email protected]
Telephone: 0300 123 7721
Monday to Friday: 8am to 5pm

Note: Apart from the current CPC fees there are several reasons why the DVSA may charge you £25, such as if:

  • It takes you more than 3 months to inform the DVSA that your card has not arrived.
  • The card gets sent to an old address because you did not updated your driving licence.

How to Replace a Lost or Stolen Driver CPC Card

You must replace a lost, stolen or damaged Driver CPC card. But, the card does not show your address on it. So, there is no need for CPC card replacement if only your address changes.

Call the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency to replace a Driver CPC card (driver qualification card). You will need to pay a card replacement fee of £25 (by credit or debit card) and give them your:

  • Date of birth
  • Address
  • Driving licence number
  • Telephone number

DVSA Driver CPC Enquiries
Telephone: 0300 123 7721
Monday to Friday: 8am to 5pm
Check call rates to 0300 numbers.

After applying for a replacement Driver CPC card you can continue driving professionally. The DVSA will send the new card within 3 weeks to the address on your driving licence. So, you must change it first if it is not correct.

How to Stay Qualified as Lorry or Bus Driver

Staying qualified as a lorry, bus, or coach driver means that every five (5) years you must:

  • Take 35 hours of ‘Driver CPC training for qualified drivers’ to continue driving ‘professionally’.
  • Renew your lorry or bus driving licence from the age of 45 and older. It becomes an annual renewal from age 65 and older.

ALSO IN THIS SECTION

Becoming a Lorry Driver: Bus and Lorry driver qualifications and licence procedures overview section.
Driver CPC Exemptions: Check some situations when the full Driver CPC qualification is not required.
Driver CPC Part 1 Test Theory: The process for booking part 1 test theory and how the exam works.
Driver CPC Part 2 Case Studies: How to book the part 2 test case studies and how the exam works.
Driver CPC Part 3 Driving Ability: The process of booking part 3 test driving abilities and how it works.
CPC Module 4 Practical Test: Find out how to book CPC part 4 test on vehicle safety demonstration.

Getting the Driver CPC Card after You have Qualified