Code 95 is compulsory for all truck drivers in the EU. Without it, you are not allowed to drive professionally. To have code 95 added to your driving licence, you first need to obtain the basic qualification for code 95. But what does that involve? And how does it work?
Why code 95?
As a professional driver, you are required to have code 95 on your driving licence if you drive a vehicle that requires a C1(E), C(E), D1(E) or D(E) licence. This code indicates that you are professionally qualified. In other words, you know all the relevant regulations and can handle the vehicle properly. This is important because allowing only qualified drivers on the road improves overall safety.
What is the Code 95 basic qualification?
The basic qualification for code 95 is a requirement you must meet before code 95 can be added to your category C driving licence. So you need to obtain it first. The qualification generally consists of 4 parts:
Professional Competence Module 2-C (VM2-C)
If you want to obtain a C or C1 driving licence with code 95, you must pass professional competence module 2-C. VM2-C is assessed with a 90-minute theory exam. You must answer at least 52 of the 65 questions correctly. These questions cover, among other things:
- vehicle technology
- vehicle knowledge and optimal use
- electronic and mechanical systems
- loads and securing loads
- drivers’ duties in relation to maintenance and breakdowns
Professional competence module 3-C (VM3-C)
Professional Competence Module 3-C (VM3-C) is also assessed with a 90-minute theory exam. Here too, you need to answer at least 52 of the 65 questions correctly. However, the questions in this exam cover somewhat different topics:
- legislation and documents (Working Hours Act, Working Hours Decree for Transport and tachograph)
- safety and health
- industry and company
Practical test (VPTC)
The Practical Professional Competence Test C (VPTC) takes about 60 minutes. The following areas are assessed by a certified training provider:
- loading, securing and unloading a load
- preventing physical risks, crime and illegal activity
- measures to take in emergencies, slippery conditions and breakdowns
- completing the European accident report form
Closed-course test
The final part of the Code 95 basic qualification is the Professional Competence C closed-course test (VPBC). You'll take this with your training provider, too. In about half an hour, your vehicle checks and manoeuvring skills will be assessed. In general, you'll complete a number of tasks that may include:
- mirror adjustment and use
- reversing in a straight line
- slalom
- moving sideways (in reverse)
- turning around in a confined space
No C driving licence yet?
To obtain the basic qualification for code 95, you need a category C or C1 driving licence. Don't have one yet? No problem. You don't need any driving experience to take the practical test or the closed-course test, so you can go ahead and take those. However, you do need to pass an additional theory exam and the category C practical exam:
RVM1-C
RVM1-C stands for Driving Licence and Professional Competence Module 1-C(1). This module is assessed with an 80-minute digital theory exam. You answer 65 questions on traffic, technology, cargo and legislation (administration).Practical driving test C
Also known as the C1 truck driving test. During this 85-minute practical exam, you'll complete various tasks, such as preparing and checking the truck, driving in and out of built-up areas, carrying out special manoeuvres and navigating.
Would you also like to obtain the basic qualification for code 95?
Would you also like to obtain the basic Code 95 qualification? At NuVrachtwagen, you get an all-in-1 package with e-learning, practical courses and theory days, including the exam. This means you can often complete each part in just one day and have Code 95 added to your driving licence within a week.
Want to know more? Email info@nuvrachtwagen.wpprovider.nl, call 085 064 53 89 or sign up right away for a course near you!
