What is the Driver CPC?
The Driver Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC) is relevant to all Large Goods Vehicle (LGV) and Passenger Carrying Vehicle (PCV) driving professionals. Those who are qualified will also be required to undertake 35 hours of professional training during a 5 year period to keep their CPC valid and continue to drive for hire and reward.
Why do I have to take four tests?
All candidates who wish to drive for hire and reward have to sit all four tests, which include: Theory Tests Multiple Choice; Hazard Perception & Case Study; Practical Test; and a Driver CPC Practical Demonstration Test.
What does D1 mean?
D1 is the class of licence you need to drive a minibus.
I already have D1 on my licence - why do I have to take another test?
If the D1 has a 101 restriction you can not drive for hire and reward - where payment is made by passengers, whether for a profit or not. If you are unsure, call the hotline on 08000 744 812.
What are "Grandfather rights"?
Grandfather rights apply to any driver that got their license prior to 1997. This means they are able to drive a minibus without having to D1 license if they fall into a category that allows grandfather rights.
How long does the training take?
The practical training takes 3 days, but the whole process could take about 2 months; you have to have a medical which can take up to 3 weeks to be returned by the DSA, then you have to pass your Theory Tests, then pass your practical test before sitting your Module 4 test.
Do I have to take a theory test before I sit my practical test?
You must pass the theory and hazard perception tests first and it is advisable to take the case study test before starting the practical training.
Do I need a medical?
Yes, you do need pass a medical prior to applying for the provisional D1 entitlement on your licence. The completed medical form must be included with the application.
Where does the training take place?
The training can take place at System Training Centre or at the customers premises.
Can we use our own company's minibus?
Yes, as long as the minibus meets the DSA requirements.
Where do I take the test?
At your nearest LGV test centre.
I can drive a car and trailer - do I have to take a separate test for a minibus and trailer?
Yes, you do.
How many passenger seats does a minibus hold?
A minibus can have between 9 and 16 passenger seats.
What are my responsibilities as an organisation?
Here is a quick breakdown of the different types of organisation and our recommendations for driver requirements. If this seems like a lot to take in, just call our helpline for an explanation at 08000 744 812.
It costs too much, can you save me money?
Members of the National Skills Academy receive a 10% discount on training, saving around £50 per person. Membership packages start at £100 (plus VAT) for organisations with less than 50 staff, so if you have many staff to train, you will soon make back your membership fees in training discounts. We can also help with a whole range of services, from discounts on other statutory training courses to helping access funding. Click here for further details of National Skills Academy membership packages.
I have more questions, where can I find out more?
Call 08000 744 812 and mention the National Skills Academy - System Training will give you all the information you need.
Do you have staff or volunteers who need to drive a vehicle carrying nine or more passengers? Before you buckle up, make sure you know the facts about getting a minibus licence.
To help you clarify what your obligations are when transporting people in a minibus, SkillsActive has teamed up with System Training to help simplify your training experience.
With high pass rates - System Training are 20% above the national average - and low prices - SkillsActive members receive 10% off the price - this winning combination offers you quality and value.
We can offer you a dedicated helpline to answer any question about who, how, where and when to train. Save time deciphering the details by receiving advice specific to your organisation direct from the experts. Training centres are located all over the UK, offering you national services with local convenience.
Telephone
For free advice, call System Training now on 08000 744 812 and mention SkillsActive.
Email
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for more information or to book your courses.
FAQs
Check out our handy list of FAQs to help you get started on your minibus journey
Did you know that if you received your minibus licence before 2008, before September 2013 you need to complete 5 days of periodic training to keep your driver Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC) valid?
Anyone working in the sport and active leisure sector receives a 50% discount on CPC training when they book through SkillsActive, meaning it costs just £60* per day.
Members receive an additional 10% off this price, reducing the per-day cost to just £54!*
Contact us now for help sourcing convenient courses that will count towards your hours and keep you on the roads. Time is ticking away so don’t delay!
* Plus VAT. Prices exclude Joint Approvals Unit for Periodic Training (JAUPT) registration fees.
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