Home › Rules › Driving › Lorries › Become a Lorry Driver › CPC Part 1
Driver CPC Module 1 Theory Test

The driving theory test for lorries, buses, and coaches includes part one of the CPC. Part 1a and part 1b make up the first module of a Driver Certificate of Professional Competence.

CPC INITIAL QUALIFICATION PART 1: You must get your provisional licence first.

You can then book the theory test of the Driver Certificate of Professional Competence.

The theory test is actually made up of 2 separate parts. The two modules are 1a ‘multiple choice questions’ and 1b ‘hazard perception’.

You will need to make a separate booking for each part. But, you can choose to take both tests on the same day if you prefer.

There is no specific ruling on which test you take first to get the theory test certificate. But, you must pass both of them within two (2) years of each other.

Licence for Driver CPC Theory Test

After you book the theory test you will need to take one of these driver licences with you:

  • Great Britain photocard driving licence.
  • Northern Ireland photocard driving licence and paper counterpart.
  • EU photocard driving licence (and paper counterpart if you have it).

Note: You may not have a photocard driving licence. In this case, take your paper driver’s licence and a valid passport. Failing to have the right documents means they will cancel your test and you will lose the fee.

How CPC Test 1 Works

Part 1a Multiple-choice Questions

You can practice the multiple-choice part of the driving theory test for free. Take official mock tests for cars, motorcycles, lorries, and buses through the DVSA.

Note: The part for the multiple-choice questions in the CPC test last for 1 hour and 55 minutes. The pass mark is 85 out of 100 questions (at least 85%).

Part 1b Hazard Perception

You can also watch a YouTube video showing how the hazard perception part works. In the test, you will watch 19 videos and you there are 20 developing hazards for you to identify.

Note: The pass mark for the hazard perception module is 67 out of 100. There is no opportunity to review your answers.

Driver CPC Part 1 Test Theory Result

You will receive a letter at the test centre with the results. It will show the grade for the particular part of the theory test that you took.

The test centre will post a theory test certificate to you after you have passed both modules. You will need the certificate to book the Driver CPC part 3 driving test.

The theory test certificate is valid for two (2) years from the date that you passed the first part of the test.

Note: It is important to pass the Driver CPC part 3 driving test within the two year period. Failing to do so means you would need to pass the part 1 theory test again.

What happens if You Fail the CPC Theory Tests?

Several things will happen if you fail the theory tests. A results letter provides feedback informing why you failed. You can go ahead and book another theory test straight away. But, you must wait at least three (3) clear working days before you can resit the tests.

DVSA Cancelled Tests

It is uncommon but the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency may cancel the test at short notice. In this case, you can apply for a refund to cover your out-of-pocket expenses.

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 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.
After You Have Qualified: Check the process for getting a Driver CPC card and how to replace one.

Driver CPC Part 1 Test Theory in the United Kingdom