Code 95 is compulsory for all professional drivers in the EU. It shows that you are professionally competent as a driver, helping to improve road safety. But how can you add Code 95 to your driving licence?
Get Code 95
If you don’t yet have code 95 on your driving licence, you must first obtain the basic qualification. It consists of the following:
VM2-C theory
VM2-C is the second part of the truck theory. This exam covers topics such as safety and the environment, and you also need to know all about the provisions of the working hours legislation and transport regulations.
VM3-C theory
The theory exam for VM3-C tests your knowledge of freight transport. You will be asked questions about, among other things, the Working Hours Decree, the tachograph, health and safety, and the industry and business.
Practical test (VPTC)
During a practical test, you are assessed on loading, securing, restraining and unloading cargo. You are also checked to see whether you take the right measures in emergencies, slippery conditions or breakdowns, and whether you know how to prevent crime, illegal activity and physical risks.
Closed-course test (VPBC)
The closed-site test shows that you have control of the vehicle and can manoeuvre it. This may include reversing in a straight line, slaloming, moving sideways and making a 180-degree turn.
Have you passed all these components? You can then have code 95 added to your driving licence at your local municipal office.
Renew Code 95
Code 95 is valid for just 5 years. After that, you need to renew it. To do so, you must complete 35 hours of refresher training, including 7 hours of practical training. You can then have Code 95 added to your driving licence again. Here’s how it works:
- You complete code 95 continuing education with a recognised training provider. The provider reports the courses you have taken and the hours completed to the CBR.
- Once you have completed the refresher training and it has been fully registered with the CBR, the CBR sends a statement of refresher training (VVN) to the RDW. You will receive a confirmation email.
- From then on, the VVN is valid for 5 years. During that period, you must have code 95 added to your driving licence at the municipal office.
Please note: the above only applies if you have a valid driving licence. Is your driving licence about to expire or has it already expired? Then you also need to renew your heavy vehicle licence. You will also need to fill in a health declaration and undergo a medical examination.
Where is code 95 shown on your driving licence?
Not sure whether you have Code 95 on your driving licence? Or want to know when it expires? Check categories C, C1 and/or D and D1 on your driving licence. If you have Code 95, you’ll see 95 followed by an expiry date in parentheses. Keep an eye on it, because you must complete those 35 hours of periodic training and have Code 95 added to your licence again before that date. Otherwise, you’re no longer allowed to drive professionally!
Tip: replace or renew?
When adding code 95 to your driving licence, you can replace or renew your licence. When you replace your licence, only code 95 is added. The validity of your driving licence remains unchanged. You do not have to undergo a medical examination, but your driving licence will be valid for a shorter period than your code 95. This means that you have to apply for a new driving licence 2 times every 5 years.
When you renew or extend your driving licence, its validity is also extended by 5 years. This means that the expiry dates of both your driving licence and Code 95 will be roughly the same. You will need to undergo a medical examination, but you will only have to renew your driving licence (and Code 95) once every 5 years. That way, you avoid paying twice!
Need to have Code 95 added to your driving licence too?
At NuVrachtwagen, you can take courses and training for both the basic qualification and periodic training. Everything under one roof, and often completed within 1 week. Sign up now for a course near you!
