The following points were agreed:

–    the date must be specified as  VALID TO: dd/mm/yyyy;
–    the certificate must be white with black lettering;
–    the security features may use other colours;
–    all points must be numbered; and
–    nationality may be indicated by the name of, or a recognised abbreviation for, the State, but must relate to the individual.

Whilst the UK photo card already complies with the ADR prescribed format, some minor amendments are now required to ensure complete compliance with the clarified points namely the date format and the black colouring of all the lettering on the card.

Following discussions with the Department for Transport, SQA will now replace all UK ADR driver training photo card certificates issued since 29 October 2012. This will ensure that all certificates issued are completely compliant with the clarified points and are easily identifiable across Europe regardless of when they were issued.

SQA will also use this opportunity to make some further improvements to the photo-card by removing the black boxes surrounding the candidate’s photograph and signature. There will also be a change to the way the name of the issuing body is displayed on the front of the photo-card following the change to the Department for Transport logo. The logo will be replaced with the simple words, Department for Transport, in black lettering. As a result of the change to the logo the guilloche and card design has also had to be revised.

SQA will begin re-issuing cards in the next couple of weeks; ensuring drivers receive their replacement cards by Friday 4th October.

Once candidates receive their replacement photo cards they will be asked to destroy their old card – but only once they have received their replacement.  They will also be asked to contact SQA by telephone or email to acknowledge receipt and destruction of their old photo card certificate. Candidates will receive clear and simple instructions with their new ADR photo card certificates.

There will be a 6 months grace period for the photo card certificate holders during which SQA will be working closely with the Police and other enforcement agencies to ensure that no driver or haulier will be disadvantaged while the new cards are issued. There will be no cost to the drivers or their employers for the new photo cards and the process will be very much like that of receiving a new bank card.

SQA is currently liaising closely with enforcement agencies and trade associations to ensure that, hauliers and individual drivers are aware of the changes.

If you have any queries or would like further information on any of the above information, please do not hesitate to contact SQA at [email protected] or telephone number 0345 270 0123 .

Re-issuing of ADR photo-card certificates

Llewellyn Europe