Description

Stay Compliant with Driver CPC Periodic Training at Open Road Training

If you hold a vocational driving licence, you already know the drill – Driver CPC isn’t optional. It’s a legal requirement that keeps you behind the wheel professionally. Whether you’re a bus driver, HGV operator, or managing a fleet, those 35 hours of periodic training every five years are non-negotiable.

Here at Open Road Training, based in Central Scotland, we make staying compliant straightforward. We offer a wide range of Driver CPC modules designed to keep you safe, sharp, and legally qualified to do the job you love.

What Is Driver CPC Periodic Training?

Driver CPC (Certificate of Professional Competence) periodic training is mandatory continuing education for professional bus, coach, and lorry drivers. You need to complete 35 hours of approved training every five years to maintain your vocational licence.

Your Driver CPC card shows your deadline. Miss it, and you can’t legally drive professionally – it’s that simple. The training must be delivered by DVSA-approved centres (like us), and it needs to cover topics that are relevant to your day-to-day work on the road.

Most drivers complete their 35 hours by attending five separate 7-hour modules. You can spread these out over the five-year period, or knock them all out in one go if that suits you better. The choice is yours, but the deadline isn’t flexible.

Why Does Driver CPC Matter?

Look, nobody loves mandatory training. But Driver CPC exists for good reasons – it keeps standards high across the industry and reduces accidents caused by outdated knowledge or bad habits.

The roads are constantly changing. New regulations come in, vehicle technology evolves, and best practices develop. Driver CPC ensures you’re not left behind. It covers everything from legal compliance to practical safety skills that could save lives – including your own.

Plus, employers value drivers who stay on top of their CPC. It shows professionalism and commitment to the job.

Our Driver CPC Course Modules

At Open Road Training, we’ve built a comprehensive range of modules that tick all the boxes for your 35-hour requirement. Our qualified instructors – approved by DVSA and registered with RADAT – bring real-world experience to every session.

Here’s what we offer:

1. Health & Safety

Your well-being matters. This module covers everything from manual handling techniques to understanding workplace hazards you’ll encounter in the transport sector.

2. Tiredness, Diet & Lifestyle

Fatigue is one of the biggest killers on the road. Learn how to manage your sleep, eat better on the move, and recognise the warning signs before tiredness becomes dangerous.

3. Licence, Weights & Dimensions

Confused about what you can legally drive? We break down licence categories, weight limits, and dimension regulations so you never have to second-guess yourself.

4. Vehicle Checks & Defects

A solid understanding of daily walkaround checks and spotting defects before they become serious problems. This one’s practical and could save you a roadside prohibition.

5. Company & Public Image

You represent your employer every time you’re on the road. This module covers professional conduct, customer service, and why your behaviour behind the wheel matters to the business.

6. Drivers Hours

The rules around driving time, breaks, and rest periods can be complex. We make it clear and show you how to stay legal without the headache.

7. Economical Driving

Fuel costs money. This module teaches you techniques to reduce consumption, lower emissions, and save your employer thousands – making you a more valuable driver.

8. Tachograph

Whether you’re using analogue or digital tachs, understanding how they work and staying compliant is essential. We cover common mistakes and how to avoid them.

9. Security

Cargo theft and vehicle crime are real threats. Learn how to secure your load, park safely, and reduce the risk of becoming a target.

10. Emergency

When something goes wrong, you need to know what to do. This covers breakdowns, accidents, first aid basics, and how to handle emergency situations calmly.

11. Petroleum Driver Passport

If you’re hauling fuel or hazardous liquids, this specialist module is crucial. It covers the specific safety requirements for petroleum transport.

12. Fire Marshal

Fire safety training for drivers and transport staff. Understand fire prevention, evacuation procedures, and how to use firefighting equipment properly.

13. Vulnerable Road Users

Cyclists, pedestrians, motorcyclists – they’re all sharing the road with you. This module focuses on awareness, blind spots, and defensive driving around vulnerable groups.

14. Safe Loading

Improper loading causes accidents. Learn the principles of weight distribution, load security, and how to prevent cargo from shifting during transport.

Why Choose Open Road Training?

We’re not just about ticking boxes. Our approach is all about Training for Tomorrow – giving you skills that actually matter in the real world.

Qualified Instructors: Our team holds DVSA approval and RADAT registration. They’re not classroom theorists – they’ve worked in transport and know what you face daily.

Central Scotland Base: We’re accessible and understand the needs of Scottish operators. Plus, we can arrange on-site training if that works better for your team.

Flexible Scheduling: We know your time is valuable. That’s why we offer multiple dates throughout the year and can accommodate group bookings. Check out our course dates to find what suits you.

Practical Focus: Every module is designed to be engaging and relevant. You won’t sit through death-by-PowerPoint here – our sessions are interactive and built around real scenarios you’ll encounter.

What Happens If You Don’t Complete Your CPC?

Let’s not beat around the bush – if your Driver CPC expires, you cannot legally drive professionally. You’ll be grounded until you complete the required training.

The consequences include:

• Fines up to £1,000 for driving without valid CPC
• Loss of income while you’re not legally able to work
• Potential vocational licence penalties from DVSA
• Employer headaches trying to cover your routes

If your card expired recently (between 2 months and 2 years ago), you can take a 7-hour Return to Driving module to get back on the road, then complete the remaining 28 hours within the year. But honestly? Don’t let it get to that point. Plan ahead and spread your training across the five-year period.

How to Book Your Driver CPC Training

Ready to get your hours sorted? Head over to our course list to see what’s available and book directly online.

Got a team that needs training? We can arrange group bookings or even deliver courses on-site at your depot. It’s often more cost-effective and convenient for fleet operators.

You can also mix and match modules based on what’s most relevant to your role. ADR driver? Prioritise modules like Security and Petroleum Driver Passport. Bus driver? Vulnerable Road Users and Drivers Hours might be your focus.

Flexible Training Options

We understand that one size doesn’t fit all. That’s why we offer:

• Classroom training at our Central Scotland location
• On-site training delivered at your workplace
• Blended learning options (though remember, e-learning is capped at 12 hours of your total 35)

Each 7-hour module can be completed in one day, making it easy to fit around your work schedule. Some courses can be split over two consecutive days if that works better for you.

Stay Ahead with Open Road Training

Your Driver CPC isn’t just about compliance – it’s about being the best professional driver you can be. The transport industry relies on skilled, knowledgeable drivers who take safety seriously and stay current with regulations.

At Open Road Training, we’re committed to delivering quality periodic training that keeps you legally compliant and genuinely better at your job. Our Training for Tomorrow approach means you’re not just sitting through mandatory hours – you’re gaining skills that make a difference.

Don’t wait until the last minute. Check your Driver CPC card, see when your deadline is, and start planning your training now. Visit openroadtraining.uk to explore our full range of modules and book your place today.

Got questions about which modules you need or want to arrange group training? Get in touch with the Open Road team – we’re here to help keep your wheels turning legally and safely.