Don’t Let it Lapse: Your Guide to ADR Refresher Courses in 2026

So, your ADR training card is getting a bit worn around the edges. Maybe you’ve noticed that expiry date creeping closer. Or perhaps you’ve been putting off thinking about it altogether. It could be time to book your ADR refresher.

Either way, you’re here now. And that’s the important thing.

Let’s break down everything you need to know about ADR refresher courses in 2026 – the timing, the rules, the benefits, and why leaving it too late could cost you more than just a few quid.

1. Why Your ADR Certificate Has an Expiry Date

Here’s the thing: your ADR training card isn’t a lifetime pass. It’s valid for 5 years from the date of issue. After that? It’s just a fancy piece of plastic.

The regulations are clear on this. If you’re transporting dangerous goods and your certificate has lapsed, you’re not legally qualified to do so. Simple as that.

This isn’t about bureaucracy for the sake of it. Dangerous goods regulations change. New safety protocols get introduced. Vehicles evolve. The refresher course ensures you’re up to date with current requirements – not operating on knowledge from half a decade ago.

2. The Refresher Window: When Can You Actually Take It?

This is where it gets interesting. You don’t have to wait until the last minute.

2.1 The 12-Month Window

You can take your ADR refresher course up to 12 months before your certificate expires. And here’s the good news: your new certificate will still run from your original expiry date, not from when you took the course.

So if your card expires in October 2026, you could sit your refresher in November 2025 and your new card would still be valid until October 2031. No time lost.

2.2 The 6-Week Rule (Pay Attention to This One)

Now, here’s the bit that catches people out.

You need to pass your refresher course at least 6 weeks before your current certificate expires. This gives enough time for the paperwork to be processed and your new ADR training card to be issued.

Cut it any closer and you’re playing a dangerous game. If there’s a delay – and delays happen – you could find yourself with a gap in your certification. That means no dangerous goods work until the new card arrives.

Bottom line: Don’t wait until week 5. Give yourself breathing room. Book your refresher course with at least 8-10 weeks to spare if you want to sleep easy.

3. What’s Changed in 2025/2026?

If you took your initial ADR courses a few years back, you’ll notice some changes this time around.

3.1 The Shift to Digital Exams

The big news is the move towards online exams conducted at approved centres. This doesn’t mean you’re sitting at home in your pants doing a multiple-choice quiz. You’ll still attend a training centre, but the exam itself is now digital.

What does this mean for you?

• Instant results – No more waiting around for days wondering if you passed
• Standardised testing – Same format across all centres
• Modern delivery – Cleaner, clearer, and more efficient

Here at Open Road Training in the Falkirk area, we’ve fully transitioned to this new system. It’s smoother than the old paper-based approach, and most drivers prefer it once they’ve experienced it.

3.2 ADR Course Online Elements

Now, you might be wondering: can I do my ADR refresher course online completely?

The short answer is: partially.

Some theory elements can be delivered remotely, but the practical components and the exam itself must be completed at an approved training centre. There’s no getting around the hands-on bits – this is dangerous goods we’re talking about.

That said, blended learning options have expanded. If you’re short on time or travel is tricky, it’s worth asking about what can be covered before you arrive for your in-person sessions.

4. ADR Refresher vs Initial Course: The Key Differences

Already hold a valid ADR certificate? The refresher is significantly lighter than what you went through the first time.

Aspect	Initial ADR Course	ADR Refresher Course
Duration	4-5 days	2-3 days
Content depth	Full syllabus	Condensed review + updates
Practical elements	Comprehensive	Focused recap
Exam	Full exam	Refresher exam

The refresher assumes you already know the fundamentals. It’s about brushing up, catching you up on changes, and confirming you’re still competent. Not starting from scratch.

5. The Hidden Benefit: CPC Hours

Here’s something transport managers and drivers often overlook.

Your ADR refresher course can count towards your Driver CPC periodic training hours. Depending on the course structure, you could earn up to 14 hours of CPC credit while you’re at it.

That’s two birds, one stone. You’re renewing your ADR certification AND ticking off a chunk of your 35-hour CPC requirement in the same trip.

Not all ADR training courses offer this, so check before you book. At Open Road Training, our refresher courses are structured to maximise your CPC credit where possible.

6. What Happens If You Let It Lapse?

Let’s be blunt. If your ADR training card expires and you haven’t completed a refresher, you’re back to square one.

That means:

• No transporting dangerous goods until you’re recertified
• Full initial course required – all 4-5 days of it
• Higher costs – initial courses are more expensive than refreshers
• Lost earnings – more days off the road

It’s not the end of the world, but it’s an expensive and time-consuming mistake. One that’s completely avoidable with a bit of forward planning.

7. Planning Your ADR Refresher: A Quick Checklist

Ready to get sorted? Here’s what to do:

1. Check your expiry date – Look at your current ADR training card right now
2. Count backwards 6-8 weeks – That’s your deadline for completing the refresher
3. Consider the 12-month window – Can you book it earlier and avoid the rush?
4. Check CPC eligibility – Will the course count towards your periodic training?
5. Book with an approved centre – Make sure they’re set up for the new digital exams

8. Booking Your ADR Refresher in Central Scotland

If you’re in the Central Scotland area – Falkirk, Stirling, Edinburgh, Glasgow, or anywhere nearby – we run regular ADR refresher courses at our training centre.

We offer:

• All classes including tanks, packages, and combined options
• Digital exams with instant results
• CPC-eligible courses so you’re maximising your time
• Flexible scheduling to fit around your work commitments

Whether you’re an owner-operator managing your own training or a transport manager booking for a team, we can help you plan ahead and avoid any last-minute panics.

Check out our full range of ADR courses or get in touch to discuss your specific needs.

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The Bottom Line

Your ADR certificate has a shelf life. Ignore it, and you’ll find yourself off dangerous goods work – potentially for weeks – while you scramble to complete a full initial course.

The refresher route is shorter, cheaper, and counts towards your CPC hours. But you need to plan ahead. That 6-week rule isn’t a suggestion; it’s the difference between smooth sailing and an unwanted break from work.

So dig out that ADR training card, check the date, and if 2026 is your year – get it booked. Future you will be grateful.

All Exams are carried out online via SQA