In a sector that is constantly changing, such as road transport, professionals needing to adapt to new market demands is more than an advantage — it is a necessity. The digitalization of logistics operations, the increasing automation of vehicles and the use of intelligent fleet management systems are profoundly changing the profile of professional drivers. It is no longer enough to know how to drive safely; it is imperative to keep up with technological developments and acquire new skills that allow them to operate in an increasingly digital environment.
In this context, ongoing training for drivers plays a central role. Not only does it ensure compliance with the legal obligations imposed by Portuguese legislation, but it also promotes efficiency, reduces risks on the road and improves the overall performance of transport companies. This article explores, in light of the national reality, why investing in ongoing education is today an essential pillar for success in the sector.
What is continuing education and why is it essential in road transport
Continuous training refers to the systematic process of updating and developing professional skills throughout an employee’s career. In the road transport sector, this practice is essential to ensure that drivers keep up with technological innovations, comply with safety standards and remain prepared for day-to-day operational challenges .
According to the Labour Code and the legislation applicable to the sector, namely Regulation (EC) No. 561/2006 and Executive Order No. 782/2009 , professional drivers must complete a mandatory number of hours of continuous training to maintain the validity of their Certificate of Professional Aptitude (CAP) . In Portugal, this training corresponds to 35 hours every 5 years , and is provided by entities certified by the Institute for Mobility and Transport (IMT) .
Direct benefits for drivers and companies
Continuous training should not be seen as just a legal requirement, but rather as a strategic tool for professional development . For drivers, it represents an opportunity to grow technically, increase their employability and adapt more easily to new realities in the sector — such as the use of digital tachographs, route management platforms or mobile applications.
For transport companies, investing in training their drivers brings multiple benefits:
- Greater road safety , with a reduction in accidents and incidents;
- Reduction of operating costs , through more efficient driving and less wear and tear on vehicles;
- Compliance with legal obligations and audits with lower risk of penalties ;
- Improvement of corporate image , showing commitment to quality and sustainability.
Continuous training is, therefore, a differentiating element in today’s competitive market, allowing human resources to be aligned with the strategic objectives of transport companies.
Impact of the digital age on the profile of professional drivers
New technologies in vehicles and fleet management
The digital age is profoundly transforming the transport sector, with a direct impact on the daily work of professional drivers. Heavy-duty vehicles are increasingly equipped with advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) , state-of-the-art digital tachographs , telemetry sensors , and other devices aimed at improving safety, reducing consumption, and optimizing routes.
At the same time, companies are adopting integrated fleet management systems based on georeferencing technologies, real-time monitoring and driver performance analysis. These technological solutions require drivers to understand how they work and know how to interact with these tools efficiently.
The digital transition is not optional, it is a reality that requires the modernization of skillsof professionals operating in the field.
Digital skills requirement
The new profile of the professional driver goes far beyond driving. It is now essential to have basic digital skills , such as:
- Use of mobile applications to register services, communicate with the center or send documentation;
- Interpretation of digital tachograph data and preventive maintenance alerts;
- Knowledge of vehicle digital interfaces , such as on-board screens and integrated navigation systems;
- Participation in online training courses , which are increasingly common in the sector.
This evolution requires continuous adaptation and a proactive stance on the part of drivers and companies. By integrating these skills, drivers become more autonomous, productive and prepared for future challenges, contributing to the success of logistics operations.
transport companies
Legal compliance and tax advantages
In Portugal, ongoing training for workers is a legal requirement set out in the Labour Code , which establishes that all workers must receive at least 40 hours of training per year . In the specific case of professional drivers, mandatory ongoing education for the CAP — 35 hours every five years — is regulated by Detran and is an essential requirement for carrying out the activity.
Failure to comply with these obligations may result in heavy fines and even the legal impossibility of the driver carrying out his/her duties . In addition to the legal aspect, there are also public incentives and support for training, such as programs financed by the IEFP , Portugal 2030 or other European funds, which allow companies to train their human resources at reduced or shared costs .
Investing in continuous training is, therefore, a way of ensuring compliance with legislation and, at the same time , access tax and financial benefits relevant to the company’s sustainability.
Valuing drivers as strategic assets
In a highly competitive sector with a shortage of qualified drivers, investing in training is also a smart strategy for retaining talent . Professionals feel valued when companies invest in their development, which contributes to greater motivation, loyalty and productivity .
Furthermore, trained and updated teams are more efficient, make fewer mistakes, take better care of vehicles and deal more effectively with unexpected events. All of this translates into smoother operations and better customer service — decisive factors in differentiating transport companies.
Finally, companies that promote ongoing training for their drivers convey a positive and responsible image to customers, partners and society in general. This positioning strengthens the brand and can be a differentiating factor in hiring and commercial negotiation processes .
How to implement an efficient continuous training program
Needs assessment and strategic planning
The first step in creating an efficient continuous training program is to carry out a diagnosis of the training needs of the company’s drivers. This assessment must take into account not only legal requirements, such as the renewal of the Certificate of Professional Aptitude (CAP) , but also the specific demands of the operation and the strategic objectives of the organization.
To do this, it is important to:
- technical and digital skills gaps ;
- Map driver profiles and the operational challenges they face;
- Establish training priorities , defining critical areas such as road safety, economical driving, on-board technologies or digital communication.
Based on this analysis, the company can draw up an annual or multi-year training plan , aligned with its performance indicators and growth goals.
Partnerships with certified entities
To ensure the quality and legal validity of training, it is essential to choose training providers certified by the IMT or the National Qualifications System (DGERT). These providers ensure up-to-date content, appropriate methodologies and trainers with experience in the sector.
Furthermore, it is advisable to choose partners who understand the reality of road transport , allowing training programs to be adapted to the reality of drivers — for example, through:
- In-person training at flexible times , compatible with the work schedule;
- Online or blended training (b- learning ) , which facilitates time management;
- Personalized monitoring and certification compatible with CAP and other legal requirements .
At the same time, the company must create internal mechanisms to monitor the training carried out , update individual records and ensure that drivers comply with CAP renewal deadlines without fail. Continuous training must be treated as a strategic investment and not as a cost and must be included in the company’s continuous improvement cycle.
Conclusion
In a sector that is constantly evolving, where digitalization, automation and operational efficiency are increasingly decisive, the ongoing training of professional drivers plays a central role in the strategy of transport companies. Much more than a legal obligation, it is a smart investment that ensures the updating of skills, adaptation to new technologies and improvement of safety and performance in the field. By investing in the training of their drivers, companies not only comply with current legislation, but also reduce operating costs, increase the motivation and retention of professionals and reinforce their image in the market.
Continuous training allows drivers to keep up with technological advances in modern vehicles, learn how to use digital fleet management systems and be better prepared for everyday challenges. To achieve this, it is essential to implement a structured training program, aligned with the real needs of the operation and in partnership with certified entities that understand the specificities of the road sector.
Find out more about mandatory training for heavy goods vehicle drivers here.