A Guide to Driver CPC Training in Scotland

Written By Abigail Avery

If you drive a lorry, bus or coach professionally, Driver CPC training is an important part of keeping your knowledge and qualification up to date. The government website states that qualified drivers generally need to complete 35 hours of periodic Driver CPC training every five years to keep your license.

At Avery Cameron Training, we deliver an in-person Driver CPC – Tachograph and Vehicle Inspections course at our Dingwall training center, just 15 minutes from Inverness. The course provides seven hours of classroom-based training and is designed to offer an interactive learning experience through face-to-face discussions, practical training and immediate support from a professional trainer.

Who May Need Driver CPC Training?

Driver CPC stands for Driver Certificate of Professional Competence. It is generally required for people who drive a heavy goods vehicle, bus or coach as the main part of their job. As previously mentioned, drivers usually need to continue completing periodic training to maintain their qualification - this is due to changes in laws and standards.

Driver CPC training may be relevant to professional drivers working in areas such as haulage, logistics or passenger transport. Some drivers and vehicles are exempt, if you are unsure about whether you need a license or not you can officially check here.

What Is a Tachograph?

A tachograph is a device used to record information about a driver’s work and journey. Depending on the rules applying to the vehicle, it can record:

  • Driving time

  • Breaks and rest periods

  • Other work

  • Periods of availability

  • Vehicle speed

  • Distance travelled

These records help drivers and operators monitor compliance with drivers’ hours rules.

Digital tachographs use driver cards to record information. Drivers need to understand how to insert and use their card correctly, select the appropriate mode and complete automatic or manual entries when required.

What Does ACT’s Driver CPC Course Cover?

The first part of ACT’s course focuses on digital tachographs. By the end of the training, drivers should understand their purpose and role in safety, compliance and enforcement. The course covers:

  • Understanding tachograph symbols

  • Selecting the correct modes and functions

  • Completing automatic and manual entries

  • Using and handling driver tachograph cards correctly

  • Recognising card faults and understanding replacement procedures

Vehicle inspections form the second and equally important part of this course. Professional drivers have a responsibility to identify whether a vehicle is safe before it is used.

The training covers exterior inspections and checks of safety-critical components, as well as the vehicle’s cab, controls and onboard systems. Drivers will also be taught to consider the legal and financial responsibilities associated with operating a safe vehicle.

You can view the full Driver CPC – Tachograph and Vehicle Inspections course specification here.

Book Now

ACT delivers this seven-hour Driver CPC course in person at our Dingwall training center, around 15 minutes from Inverness (see map below!). We already have several upcoming Driver CPC training dates available:

  • 25th August

  • 14th September

  • 1st October

You can view these dates and any future additions on the ACT Course Calendar.

If you have any questions or prefer booking over the phone, please get in contact with us directly, and we’ll be happy to help:

Email: alasdair@actsafe.uk

Call: 01349 793088

 
Abigail Avery
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