What Is a CPC Check and Why It’s Important for HGV Drivers
If you’re an HGV or bus driver in the UK, keeping your Driver CPC (Certificate of Professional Competence) up to date isn’t just a formality. It’s a legal requirement that proves you’re qualified, competent, and up to date with industry standards.
Many drivers forget a crucial habit: checking their CPC. Regular checks help you stay compliant and your licence valid.
This blog explains what a CPC check is, how to track your hours, and why it’s vital for every professional driver on UK roads.
What Is a CPC Check?
A CPC check means verifying your Driver CPC training record. This shows how many training hours you’ve finished and how many you still need.
Every professional driver must complete 35 hours of approved CPC training every 5 years to continue driving for hire or reward.
By checking your CPC record, you can see:
- How many of your 35 hours you already completed
- Which training modules you attended
- When your Driver Qualification Card (DQC) expires
In short, a CPC check gives you a clear picture of your compliance and tells you if you’re legally allowed to keep driving commercially.
How to Track Your CPC Hours
Tracking your CPC hours is quick and prevents last-minute renewal stress.
Here’s how you can track your CPC progress:
- Go to the Official GOV.UK Portal
Visit: https://www.gov.uk/check-your-driver-cpc-periodic-training-hours - Register Your Details
You’ll need your driving licence number and postcode to register. - Receive Your Password
After registration, a password will be sent by post to the address on your driving licence. - Log In to View Your Record
Once you log in, you’ll see a breakdown of your:
Total hours completed
Training provider details
Driver Qualification Card (DQC) expiry date
Also Read: Tips to know Before you Qualify for a Driver CPC Licence
Where Can I Check My CPC Hours?
The only official and accurate way to check your CPC hours is through the GOV.UK Driver CPC hours check service, managed by the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA).
It’s always available online and free. You’ll see your full CPC record and stay compliant every 5 years.
If your hours aren’t showing up, contact your training provider first, as they are responsible for uploading attendance data within 5 working days of course completion.
How Do I Check How Many CPC Hours I Have Completed?
Once you’re logged into the CPC hours portal, your dashboard clearly displays:
- The total number of hours you’ve completed
- The remaining hours you need
- Details of each course (date, provider, topic)
You need to complete a total of 35 hours within every 5-year period.
While some drivers prefer to finish all training in one go, the DVSA recommends spreading your sessions over time — for example, 7 hours per year — so you retain information better and avoid last-minute pressure.
While some drivers prefer to finish all training in one go, the DVSA recommends spreading your sessions over time — for example, 7 hours per year — so you retain information better and avoid last-minute pressure.
You Can Also Read: How to Get Your CPC Card
Why a CPC Check Is So Important
Performing regular CPC checks isn’t just about ticking a compliance box — it directly impacts your career, your legal status, and your professional reputation.
Here’s why it’s essential:
1. Legal Compliance
Driving without a valid CPC card is an offence in the UK.
If you’re caught driving professionally without meeting the CPC training requirement, you could face a fine of up to £1,000, and your employer may also be penalised.
If you’re caught driving professionally without meeting the CPC training requirement, you could face a fine of up to £1,000, and your employer may also be penalised.
2. Job Security
Transport and logistics companies must ensure all their drivers are CPC-compliant.
Regularly checking your CPC hours shows employers you’re proactive and responsible — which can improve your job stability and prospects.
Regularly checking your CPC hours shows employers you’re proactive and responsible — which can improve your job stability and prospects.
3. Avoid Penalties or Suspension
Failing to complete your 35 hours means your Driver Qualification Card (DQC) won’t be renewed, and you’ll legally have to stop driving until your training is complete.
Performing a CPC check helps you avoid these costly interruptions.
Performing a CPC check helps you avoid these costly interruptions.
4. Stay Skilled and Safe
Periodic CPC training isn’t just about compliance — it keeps you updated with the latest safety practices, driving laws, and road-risk awareness.
A CPC check ensures your training remains relevant and your skills stay sharp.
A CPC check ensures your training remains relevant and your skills stay sharp.
5. Professional Development
Completing CPC training enhances your knowledge in areas like fuel efficiency, driver wellbeing, and vehicle safety.
By tracking your CPC hours, you’re not just staying compliant — you’re investing in your long-term career growth as a professional driver.
By tracking your CPC hours, you’re not just staying compliant — you’re investing in your long-term career growth as a professional driver.
Also Read: What is Driver CPC Training?
Conclusion
A CPC check is one of the simplest yet most powerful habits you can adopt as an HGV or PCV driver in the UK.
By regularly reviewing your CPC hours online, you stay compliant, protect your livelihood, and demonstrate your professionalism on the road.
By regularly reviewing your CPC hours online, you stay compliant, protect your livelihood, and demonstrate your professionalism on the road.
Don’t wait until your renewal date is close — log in to the GOV.UK CPC check portal today and make sure your record is accurate and up to date.
It’s quick, easy, and the smartest way to keep your career moving forward.
It’s quick, easy, and the smartest way to keep your career moving forward.
FAQs About CPC Hours
Q. How many CPC hours do I need to complete?
Ans: Every driver must complete 35 hours of CPC training every 5 years.
Q. Can I carry over extra hours to the next 5-year cycle?
Ans: No. You must complete a new 35-hour cycle for each 5-year period — extra hours don’t carry forward.
Q. What happens if I don’t complete my CPC hours?
Ans: You won’t receive a new Driver Qualification Card (DQC), and you’ll be banned from professional driving until you finish the training.
Q. How long does it take for CPC hours to appear online?
Ans: Training providers must upload your attendance record within 5 working days of completing a course.
Q. Can employers check CPC hours?
Ans: Yes. Employers can use the DVSA online portal to confirm a driver’s CPC status before hiring or renewing contracts.
Q. What should I do if I lose my login password or have trouble accessing the GOV.UK portal?
Ans: If you forget your password, visit the GOV.UK Driver CPC website and click “Forgotten your password?”. Enter your registered email to reset your password and regain access to your account.
Q. What steps should I take if my CPC hours are missing after 5 working days?
Ans: If your CPC hours haven’t appeared within 5 working days, contact your training provider first to confirm they’ve uploaded the data. If it’s still missing, reach out to the DVSA CPC team with your driver number so they can investigate.
Q. How do I choose approved CPC training providers or find recommended courses?
Ans: Make sure your training provider is approved by JAUPT (Joint Approvals Unit for Periodic Training). To ensure you’re choosing trusted, DVSA-recognized courses, contact GS Driver Training, which offers certified CPC and HGV training designed for professional drivers.
Q. What information do employers see when they check my CPC status, and do I need to give permission?
Ans: Employers can only see your CPC training record if you grant them permission. You can create a temporary code through your GOV.UK CPC account that allows them to verify your training hours securely and safely.
