If you’ve never heard the term “grandfather rights” in connection with Driver CPC (Certificate of Professional Competence) training, it might seem confusing. However, many professional drivers in the UK rely on these rights, especially those who passed their driving tests before certain regulations came into force. In this blog, we’ll explain everything you need to know about drivers CPC grandfather rights, including who qualifies, what they mean, and how to ensure you stay compliant.
What Are Drivers CPC Grandfather Rights?
The term “grandfather rights” or “acquired rights” refers to a special exemption for drivers who passed their driving tests before specific dates, before Driver CPC became a requirement. These rights allow certain drivers to avoid taking the formal CPC qualification, unlike newer drivers. However, drivers CPC grandfather rights don’t exempt you from all training requirements. You still have obligations under the law.
What Are the Legal Requirements for Driver CPC?
In the UK, laws require drivers of coaches, lorries, and buses to hold a Driver CPC. This qualification ensures drivers have the necessary skills and knowledge to drive safely and professionally. However, the Driver CPC wasn’t always mandatory.
Before the law changed, drivers who passed their HGV or bus tests before specific dates received “grandfather rights,” meaning they didn’t need to take the new Driver CPC qualification. The law changed in 2009, when the Driver CPC became mandatory for all new professional drivers.
Who Qualifies for Driver CPC Grandfather Rights?
If you passed your driving test before specific dates, you may qualify for grandfather rights for your Driver CPC. Here’s a breakdown:
- HGV drivers: If you passed your Category C, C1, C+E, or C1+E test before 10 September 2009, you have acquired rights. You’re exempt from the initial Driver CPC test but must still meet ongoing requirements.
- Bus or coach drivers: If you passed your test for categories D, D1, D+E, or D1+E before 10 September 2008, you qualify for grandfather rights.
What Does Having Driver CPC Grandfather Rights Really Mean?
Having grandfather rights means you don’t need to take the initial Driver CPC test when you get your license. The assumption is that your previous driving experience makes the initial qualification unnecessary. However, this doesn’t mean you’re free from all regulations.
Key obligations:
- Drivers with grandfather rights must still complete 35 hours of periodic training every five years to maintain their qualification and legally drive professionally.
- Failing to do so can result in serious penalties, as driving without maintaining your qualifications is illegal.
What Can You Drive with Grandfather Rights?
Drivers with grandfather rights can legally drive the same vehicles as those who hold the full Driver CPC qualification. This includes:
- HGVs (Heavy Goods Vehicles): If you passed your HGV test before the required dates, you can continue driving trucks professionally.
- Category C1 vehicles: This includes 7.5-tonne vehicles, which drivers may operate if they have the appropriate entitlement.
How to Apply for Driver CPC Grandfather Rights
If you believe you qualify for CPC grandfather rights, you’ll need to apply to the DVLA (Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency). The process involves verifying your entitlement and ensuring your driving record reflects these rights. Typically, your HGV training provider or fleet manager can guide you through the application process.
Do You Need a CPC If You Have Grandfather Rights?
Many people mistakenly believe that grandfather rights completely exempt you from Driver CPC requirements. While it’s true that you don’t need to take the initial qualification, you must still complete 35 hours of periodic training every five years. This ongoing training requirement applies to all professional drivers, regardless of when they passed their driving test.
When Did Grandfather Rights End?
The introduction of the Driver CPC in 2009 marks the key moment for grandfather rights. Drivers who passed their tests before 10 September 2009 (for HGVs) or 10 September 2008 (for buses/coaches) are eligible for these rights. Drivers who obtained their licenses after these dates must complete the full Driver CPC process, including the initial qualification and periodic training. But it is ending at the end of 2024.
What Are the DVLA Grandfather Rights?
The DVLA recognizes the grandfather rights for drivers who passed their tests before the required dates. To apply for these rights, you must provide evidence of when you passed your test and ensure that the DVLA updates your driving record accordingly.
Can You Drive a 7.5-Tonne Lorry with Grandfather Rights?
Yes, drivers with grandfather rights can legally drive a 7.5-tonne lorry (Category C1 vehicle) without taking the full Driver CPC qualification. However, this only applies if they passed their test before the relevant date. If you want to drive this type of vehicle professionally, you must maintain your Driver CPC through periodic training, just like other professional drivers.
Keeping Your Fleet Safe and Compliant
If you manage a fleet, you must ensure that drivers with grandfather rights stay compliant with all laws. Although they may not need to take the initial CPC qualification, they must complete their 35 hours of training every five years. Staying informed about the latest regulations is crucial for ensuring your fleet remains compliant.
Conclusion
While drivers CPC grandfather rights allow many experienced drivers to continue working without undergoing the full qualification process, they still have responsibilities. These rights ensure that drivers who were licensed before the CPC requirement don’t face unnecessary obstacles, but they must still complete regular training to stay legally compliant.
As the industry continues to evolve, it’s important for all drivers—whether they have grandfather rights or not—to remain informed about changes to driving regulations and ensure they are fully qualified and safe on the road.