Parliament has approved updates to the Driver Certificate of Professional Competence (DCPC), a move praised by Logistics UK as a boost for road safety.
Key changes include reducing the minimum training session length from seven to 3.5 hours, although the total course requirement remains at 35 hours. The revisions also introduce more flexible options, such as separating e-learning from in-person training and creating an accelerated path for drivers returning to the industry.
Chris Yarsley, senior policy manager at Logistics UK, welcomed the updates, stating that these changes will help retain drivers and ease the return process for those re-entering the field. “Our members recognise the value of the DCPC in maintaining road safety and professional standards,” he said. The shorter minimum session length will make scheduling less demanding, while maintaining focus on relevant, high-quality training content.
Yarsley also highlighted the flexibility that decoupling e-learning provides, allowing businesses to better tailor training to drivers’ needs while retaining face-to-face training options. The accelerated return pathway will also allow lapsed drivers to return more quickly without needing to complete the full 35-hour course, provided they meet rigorous safety standards.
However, Yarsley stressed the importance of high standards for all training pathways to ensure drivers remain informed on critical regulations, including drivers’ hours and load security. He cautioned against replacing periodic training with pass/fail tests, as this could exacerbate driver shortages and disrupt the supply chain.
As I can see this doesn’t change anything ,drivers of 20 more years do we need instruction on how to suck eggs,the course doesn’t teach anybody how to drive better or safer