Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 21 February 2023
193. Deputy Emer Higgins asked the Minister for Transport if he will authorise the issuing of a temporary 31-day CPC card to drivers who successfully complete their professional driving test in order to get newly qualified bus drivers out on the road serving local communities quicker; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8305/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraA truck or bus driver must complete the initial qualification in order to apply for a Certificate of Professional Competency (CPC) card. This involves a theory test, a case study theory test, a driving test and walk around test. The theory tests can be completed together and the walk around and driving tests can be completed on the same day. The driver must have the new licence category on their driving licence, which takes on average 5 working days to process, before applying to the Road Safety Authority for their CPC card. The average processing time for a qualification card is 7 to 14 working days, and the card is valid for 5 years. There is no provision in legislation for issuing a temporary CPC card.
