Driver CPC Blindspot for New Drivers
Did you know that you cannot tell from a licence check (JAUPT’s recommendation before commencing periodic training) if a driver who passed his/her test after September 10 2008 for PSV or after September 10 2009 for LGV has also passed their initial Driver CPC and is therefore ineligible to commence any periodic training?
Drivers who pass their PSV/LGV driving test (Modules 1 & 3) may be – unwittingly - driving illegally. Likewise the companies employing them in good faith may be allowing them – equally unwittingly - to drive illegally.
Many PSV/LGV driving schools are not informing drivers that they need Modules 2 & 4 to gain their Initial Driver CPC. In some cases, the DSA is failing to advise new LGV/PSV drivers that they need Modules 2 & 4 in addition to 1 & 3 if they want to drive professionally.
To date, there is no system in place for employers to determine whether a driver has an initial Driver CPC. All drivers who passed their test (modules 1,2,3, and 4) after the dates outlined above will be issued a Drivers Qualification Card (DQC).
Legal Implications
1: Any new driver who has the relevant licence but no DQC will be ineligible to undertake any Driver CPC periodic training and cannot drive for a living.
2: There is a fixed penalty for a new driver without a Driver CPC and a likely £1,000 fine for the company. When employing a driver who passed their driving test after the dates above, it’s essential to enquire if they have a DQC as well as checking their licence. No DQC – No Job
For further information call us on 01376 552999
Story By: Bob Thompson Web Link: www.novadata.co.uk Email Link: enquiries@novadata.co.uk
Date : 11-10-2010
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