Knowledge base
Validity and renewal, explained per document.
How long is a CSCS card valid? When does a Driver CPC have to be renewed? The knowledge base explains, per certificate, inspection and licence, how long it stays valid, how renewal works and what a missed date costs.
Driver CPC and DQC expiry: the 35-hour rule explained
Driver CPC lasts 5 years and is renewed with 35 hours of periodic training before the deadline. Driving professionally without it risks a fine of up to £1,000.
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How long is a First Aid at Work certificate valid?
FAW and EFAW certificates are both valid for 3 years. Requalify before expiry — once the certificate lapses, the holder no longer counts as a first-aider.
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Does a forklift licence expire? The refresher rules explained
There is no statutory forklift licence in the UK and basic training certificates don't legally expire — but accrediting bodies and HSE guidance point to refresher training roughly every 3 to 5 years.
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How long is a CSCS card valid?
Most CSCS cards are valid for 5 years — but since February 2025 a first Green Labourer card lasts only 2 years. Here's how renewal works and what an expired card means on site.
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How long is an IPAF licence (PAL Card) valid?
An IPAF PAL Card is valid for 5 years from the first day of training; renewal requires refresher training and a test before the card expires — there is no grace period.
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LOLER thorough examination: how often is it required?
Under LOLER 1998, lifting equipment used to lift people and all lifting accessories need a thorough examination at least every 6 months; other lifting equipment at least every 12 months.
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MOT due dates for fleets: rules, early renewal and penalties
Cars and vans need their first MOT at 3 years, then annually — and you can test up to a month (minus a day) early without losing your renewal date. Driving without an MOT risks a £1,000 fine.
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O-licence undertakings: the dates you promised to keep
Your operator licence undertakings translate into a handful of recurring dates — safety inspections at your stated intervals, annual test, tachograph calibration, Driver CPC and licence checks — with records kept for 15 months.
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SMSTS and SSSTS renewal: the 5-year rule with no grace period
SMSTS and SSSTS certificates are valid for 5 years. Renew with a short refresher before expiry — even one day late means sitting the full course again.
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Tachograph calibration and download intervals in Great Britain
A digital tachograph must be inspected and recalibrated every 2 years; in GB the vehicle unit must be downloaded at least every 90 days, driver cards at least every 28 days, and records kept for 12 months.
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