Step one, pass the Transport Manager CPC
The qualification is the Transport Manager CPC. You do not need a driving licence to take it, and there is no age limit. For road haulage the exam covers civil, commercial, social and fiscal law, business and money management, paperwork for taking goods abroad, goods vehicle standards and road safety.
It is in two parts, with multiple choice and case study questions, and you must pass both. GOV.UK lists the awarding bodies that approve exam providers, including CILT, City & Guilds, Innovate Awarding, NLTC, NOCN Group and SEG Awards. You pay to sit the exam, so check the fee with the provider.
Training is optional but common
You can sit the exam without a course, but many people take one. Courses are available online and through some employers. Our Transport Manager CPC guide covers how people usually study for it.
Step two, be named on a licence
The certificate alone does not make you a Transport Manager. You become one when an operator names you on their licence and the traffic commissioner accepts you. The traffic commissioner will want to see that you hold the right qualification, are of good repute, and will genuinely manage the operation for enough hours a week.
Where the work comes from
- Some people become the Transport Manager of their own or their employer's operation.
- Others work as external Transport Managers, acting for several operators, within the limits of four operators and 50 vehicles in total.
If you work as an external Transport Manager you can create a free profile in our directory so operators can find you. List your services.
General information only. Requirements and exam providers change. Check the current guidance on becoming a Transport Manager on GOV.UK and with the Office of the Traffic Commissioner. Nothing here is legal advice.
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