CQC: when is it required alongside a driving licence?

The CQC is required for the professional carriage of goods with C1, C1E, C or CE licences and of passengers with D1, D1E, D or DE licences, subject to statutory exemptions. It does not replace a driving licence: both are required when the nature of the work demands it.

A driving licence and the CQC serve different purposes

A driving licence authorises the holder to drive a specific category of vehicle; the Driver Qualification Card certifies professional competence for certain transport activities. Holding a Category C or D licence does not therefore mean you can carry out any professional role without meeting other requirements. The Driver Qualification Card is divided into qualifications for goods and passengers and relates to the activities and vehicles specified by the regulations.

The requirement depends on the type of transport and the context. There are exceptions, for example relating to the nature of the transport or the use of the vehicle, but these should not be extended by analogy. The Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport (MIT) publishes the regulations governing the CQC; compare the ministry’s webpage with your actual role, the vehicle and any relevant European legislation. Ask your employer what activities you will be carrying out and the Vehicle Registration Authority how the rule applies in your case.

A CQC is not required, amongst other cases, for the transport of goods or passengers for private, non-commercial purposes, and when the driver is transporting materials or equipment used in their work, provided that driving is not their main occupation. For a business trip, check the actual purpose of the journey and whether any exemption applies before setting off.

• First, check the driving licence category required for the vehicle.
• Distinguish between professional transport and private use in accordance with the regulations.
• Check the classification of goods or passengers and any specific exemptions.

Initial CQC and refresher training

Those required to obtain the qualification must complete the prescribed initial training programme and pass the required assessments. To maintain validity, periodic training is required, with deadlines and procedures set out in the current regulations. The date printed on the card or linked to the IT systems must be checked before starting a shift. Renewal does not necessarily coincide with the renewal of the driving licence: they are separate qualifications.

If you have changed your line of work or category, ask whether you need to renew your qualification. If your CQC has expired, do not assume that simply enrolling on a course will restore your professional entitlement: check that your status is in order before you start work. Local offices and the MIT can advise on the relevant documents and current procedures.

Planning a career path

A useful example: driving the company lorry to make a delivery may fall under a different category from transporting equipment necessary for one’s trade using a vehicle used on an ancillary basis. The distinction depends on the conditions set out in the regulations, not on an informal definition of ‘work’. Ask for an assessment based on your contract and job role, particularly if your work involves a mix of goods transport and technical tasks. Keep a separate record of your CQC expiry date from that of your driving licence.

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