The Driver CPC and you
New Professional Driver
Since 30 September 2014, in order to become a professional bus or truck driver, you must take the following five steps:
- Step 1: Pass a driver theory test and get a driver theory test certificate for
category C or D or both as appropriate;
Step 2: Get a learner permit in the relevant category;
Step 3: Pass a 2-hour case study theory test (note Step 2 must be
completed before Step 3 if under 21 when applying for a C or CE licence or under 24 when applying for a D or DE licence);
Step 4: Pass a 90-minute practical driving test, including questions and demonstrations on how you would carry out a series of checks; and
Step 5: Pass a 30-minute practical test.
Once you have completed these steps, you must complete an application form (available from the RSA) to apply for your Driver CPC qualification card. The driving test (Step 3) and practical CPC tests (Step 4) are carried out at RSA driving test centres and are usually taken one after the other.
Further information about the Driver CPC programme is available on the RSA website, www.rsa.ie. Information about the Driver CPC Theory Tests is available on the following website: www.theorytest.ie.
Already a Professional Driver
If you were already a professional bus driver or holder of category D licence on 10 September 2008 or a professional truck driver or holder of a Category C licence on 10 September 2009, you are automatically entitled to Driver CPC. This is called ‘acquired rights’.
In order that professional drivers maintain their rights, they must complete 35 hours of periodic refresher training every five years.
Where a professional driver seeks to maintain rights to drive both buses and trucks professionally, they must complete 42 hours of periodic refresher training every five years. Periodic training must include a minimum of 7 hours training in a single day each year.