Irish Driving Licence – CPC & Kod 95: What You Need to Know
If you’re planning to drive professionally in Ireland—whether as a taxi driver, delivery clerk, or private‑hire operator—you’ll quickly discover that a standard car licence isn’t enough. Two extra qualifications sit on top of the ordinary driver’s licence: the CPC (Certificate of Professional Competence) and Kod 95 (the Irish version of the EU‑wide “Code 95” training).
This guide walks you through everything you need to know, from eligibility and training hours to costs, renewal rules, and the practical steps you’ll take to get both qualifications. By the end of the article you’ll have a clear, step‑by‑step action plan that you can follow immediately.
1. Why the CPC and Kod 95 Matter
| Feature | CPC (Certificate of Professional Competence) | Kod 95 (Code 95) |
|---|---|---|
| Legal Basis | EU Directive 2003/59/EC (applies to bus, coach, and taxi drivers) | EU Directive 2003/59/EC (applies to all professional drivers) |
| Who Must Have It | Drivers of passenger‑carrying vehicles (taxis, private‑hire, buses, coaches) | All professional drivers of vehicles > 3.5 t, and of any vehicle used for the carriage of passengers |
| Core Purpose | Prove competence in driver‑training, road safety, and customer service | Demonstrate that you have completed initial and periodic driver‑training (initial 35 h + 35 h every 5 years) |
| Validity | 5 years (after which you must renew) | 5 years (renewal required alongside CPC) |
| Where It Appears | On your Irish driving licence – a “CPC” endorsement | On your Irish driving licence – a “Kod 95” endorsement (EU‑wide symbol) |
| Consequences of Non‑Compliance | Fines, licence suspension, inability to work legally | Same as CPC; also may affect insurance premiums |
Both credentials appear as endorsements on the same licence card, but they are awarded through different training providers and have distinct administrative processes. Getting them right the first time saves you weeks of paperwork and avoids costly penalties.
2. Eligibility Checklist – Do You Qualify?
| Requirement | Details | How to Verify |
|---|---|---|
| Age | Minimum 21 years for passenger‑carrying licences (private‑hire ≥ 21, taxi ≥ 23) | Check your birth certificate or passport |
| Current Irish Driving Licence | Full Category B (car) licence, valid for at least 2 years | Look at the issue date on your licence |
| Medical Fitness | Must pass a medical examination (Vision, cardiovascular, neurological) | Book an appointment with a National Driver Medical Assessment Service (NDMAS) centre |
| No Disqualifying Convictions | No serious driving offences (e.g., drink‑driving, dangerous driving) in the past 5 years | Request a Garda criminal record check (or check your own records) |
| English Language Proficiency | Ability to understand instructions and safety information | Provide a passport, P60 or similar proof of residence if needed |
| Work Permit (if non‑EU) | Valid Irish work permit for a driving‑related role | Verify with the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment |
If you tick every box, you’re ready to start the formal process.
3. The Training Path – From Zero to CPC/Kod 95
Below is the full training timeline, broken into bite‑size phases. Most learners complete the whole programme in 6‑8 weeks, but you can spread it out if you have other commitments.
| Phase | Hours | Content | Typical Delivery Method | Assessment |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Initial Theory | 14 h | Road safety, vehicle handling, customer service, EU regulations | Classroom or online (interactive modules) | Multiple‑choice test (70 % pass) |
| Practical Driving (CPC) | 21 h | On‑road driving with a certified instructor, focus on passenger‑carrying scenarios | In‑vehicle training (dual‑control cars) | Real‑time observation + logbook sign‑off |
| Advanced Theory (Kod 95) | 10 h | Fatigue management, eco‑driving, first‑aid, load securing | E‑learning + webinars | Short written exam |
| Final Assessment | – | Consolidated practical test + oral interview | Approved testing centre | Pass/fail; must achieve “competent” rating |
| Total | 35 h | – | – | – |
Tip: Many training schools bundle the CPC and Kod 95 courses, offering a single 35‑hour package for a reduced price.
4. Costs – What Will It Set You Back?
| Item | Approximate Cost (EUR) | Who Pays? | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| CPC Application Fee | €115 (non‑refunded) | Driver | Paid to the National Driver Licence Service (NDLS) |
| Kod 95 Training Fee | €250‑€350 | Driver (often reimbursed by employer) | Varies by provider; includes study material |
| Medical Examination | €60‑€80 | Driver | Required for any professional licence |
| Driving Test (CPC) | €70 (standard) | Driver | Additional surcharge if you need a retake |
| Licence Endorsement (CPC + Kod 95) | €30 | Driver | Added to the usual licence renewal fee |
| Renewal (Every 5 years) | €115 (CPC) + €30 (Kod 95) | Driver/Employer | Must be paid before expiry; you lose the right to drive professionally otherwise |
| Total First‑Time Investment | €630‑€720 | – | Includes all mandatory elements |
If you’re employed by a driving company, ask whether they offer a training allowance or salary sacrifice scheme. Many firms treat the CPC/Kod 95 as an employee benefit because it directly improves safety and reduces insurance premiums.
5. Step‑by‑Step Guide to Getting Your CPC & Kod 95
- Confirm Eligibility – Use the checklist in Section 2.
- Schedule a Medical Examination – Book with an NDMAS centre; obtain the Medical Certificate of Fitness (Form D 240).
- Apply for the CPC – Fill out the online CPC application on the National Driver Licence Service portal; upload your medical certificate and pay the €115 fee.
- Choose a Training Provider – Look for schools listed on the Road Safety Authority (RSA) website; compare price, location, and course format.
- Enroll in the 35‑hour Programme – Pay the tuition fee (see Section 4). You will receive a student ID and a logbook.
- Complete Theory Modules – Usually a combination of classroom sessions and an online learning portal. Take notes; the final test draws heavily from these modules.
- Undertake Practical Sessions – A certified instructor will accompany you on a dual‑control vehicle. Record each hour in your logbook; the instructor signs off after each session.
- Take the Final Assessment – Book a date at an approved testing centre (often the same school). Bring your logbook, ID, and any required paperwork.
- Receive Your Endorsements – Once you pass, the RSA updates your licence with the “CPC” and “Kod 95” symbols. You’ll receive a confirmation letter and a digital copy via the NDLS portal.
- Plan for Renewal – Set a calendar reminder for 5 years later. The renewal process mirrors the initial one but requires only a refresher of 35 h (split into 2 h theory + 33 h practical).
6. Common Pitfalls & How to Avoid Them
| Pitfall | Impact | Prevention |
|---|---|---|
| Skipping the medical exam | Application rejected, delays of 2‑4 weeks | Book as soon as you confirm eligibility; keep the certificate handy. |
| Choosing a non‑approved training centre | Your hours won’t count toward CPC/Kod 95 | Verify the provider’s RSA accreditation number before paying. |
| Missing logbook signatures | Test centre may refuse to accept your application | Sign each session immediately; keep the logbook in a safe place. |
| Failing the theory test on the first try | Additional €50 fee for retake, loss of momentum | Use the provider’s practice quizzes; create flashcards for key regulations. |
| Not renewing on time | Licence endorsement lapses; you cannot drive professionally | Set an automatic calendar reminder 3 months before expiry; keep your contact details up to date in the NDLS portal. |
| Assuming CPC = Kod 95 | You may be missing the Kod 95 endorsement, leading to fines | Remember they are separate endorsements; both appear on your licence. |
7. Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. Do I need a separate licence for CPC and Kod 95?
No. Both endorsements are added to your existing Irish driving licence. Once you have passed the training and assessment, the RSA updates the same card with “CPC” and “Kod 95” symbols.
Q2. Can I take the CPC and Kod 95 training at different schools?
Technically yes, but it’s rarely practical. The RSA requires that the 35‑hour training be completed with a single approved provider, who then records the result in the central system. Splitting providers may cause administrative delays.
Q3. What if I already have a UK or EU professional licence?
If you hold a valid EU‑wide “Code 95” endorsement from another member state, you may be able to transfer it to your Irish licence after a formal recognition process. Contact the RSA for the exact procedure; a medical check and a short theory test are still usually required.
Q4. How often do I need to renew the CPC/Kod 95?
Every 5 years. Renewal involves a refresher of 35 hours (split into 7 hours theory, 28 hours practical). You must also pay the renewal fees and submit a fresh medical certificate if your health status has changed.
Q5. Is there any financial aid for the training?
Many employers sponsor the CPC/Kod 95 as part of staff development. Additionally, the Irish Government’s Skills Training Initiative sometimes offers vouchers for adult learners in the transport sector. Check the SOLAS website for current schemes.
Q6. What happens if I lose my licence card after receiving CPC/Kod 95?
Apply for a replacement through the NDLS portal. The new card will automatically include the existing endorsements, so you do not need to re‑apply.
Q7. Can I drive a private‑hire vehicle with just the CPC?
No. For passenger‑carrying vehicles you need both endorsements. The CPC proves you have completed professional driver training, while Kod 95 demonstrates you have maintained the EU‑wide driver‑training standard.
8. Quick Reference Cheat‑Sheet
| Action | Deadline | Cost (EUR) | Documents Needed |
|---|---|---|---|
| Medical Exam | Before CPC application | €70 | ID, licence |
| CPC Application | Immediately after medical | €115 | Medical certificate, passport |
| Training Enrollment | Within 2 weeks of CPC approval | €250‑€350 | Student ID, proof of address |
| Theory Test | After 14 h theory completed | Included in tuition | None |
| Practical Test | After 21 h driving completed | €70 (plus any retake fee) | Signed logbook |
| Endorsement Issued | Within 2 weeks of passing | €30 (licence fee) | Test result |
| Renewal (5 yr) | 3 months before expiry | €115 + €30 | Updated medical certificate |
Keep this table printed and pinned to your workspace; crossing off each step will keep you on track and avoid costly oversights.
9. Final Thoughts – Your Road Ahead
Obtaining the CPC and Kod 95 may feel like a bureaucratic hurdle, but it’s also an investment in your safety, employability, and professional credibility. The Irish transport sector places a premium on well‑trained drivers, and those who hold the correct endorsements enjoy higher earning potential, better job security, and lower insurance premiums.
Remember: the process is linear and well‑documented. By following the checklist, staying on schedule, and choosing an RSA‑approved training provider, you can move from “new driver” to “qualified professional” in under two months—without unnecessary stress or expense.
Now that you have the roadmap, it’s time to take the first concrete step: book your medical examination. Once that’s done, the rest of the journey will fall into place, and you’ll soon be adding the proud “CPC” and “Kod 95” symbols to your licence card.
Safe driving, and welcome to the professional side of the Irish road!