ADR is the international agreement that governs carrying dangerous goods by road. For operators using agency drivers, the key question is simple: does this driver's ADR card cover this load, for the whole booking?
1. What the ADR card is
To drive a vehicle carrying dangerous goods, a driver must train, pass exams and hold an ADR card. The card shows which dangerous goods the driver is allowed to carry. It is personal to the driver and separate from their driving licence and Driver CPC.
2. Packages, tanks and specialisms
ADR training is built from a core course plus specialist modules. The specialisms on a driver's card decide the work they can do:
- Packages: dangerous goods carried in packages, drums and containers
- Tanks: dangerous goods carried in tanks, such as fuel and chemical tankers
- Class 1: explosives, a separate specialism
- Class 7: radioactive material, a separate specialism
A driver qualified for packages is not qualified to drive a tanker. Always check the card against both the goods and how they are carried.
3. Expiry and refreshers
ADR qualifications last 5 years. To stay qualified, drivers must take refresher training and pass the tests again. For agency work, check the expiry date covers the whole booking, not just the first day.
For work outside the UK, the driver also needs an international Driver CPC. ADR applies across Europe, but a national Driver CPC card does not allow professional driving there.
4. What stays with the operator
A qualified driver is one part of carrying dangerous goods safely and lawfully. The operator and consignor stay responsible for:
- The vehicle, its equipment, and orange plates and markings
- Tanker approvals and inspections
- Transport documents and emergency information
- Site rules for loading and discharge
- Advice from your Dangerous Goods Safety Adviser (DGSA)
5. Booking an agency ADR driver
- Tell the agency the UN numbers or classes, and whether the goods are packaged or in tanks.
- Ask for the driver's ADR specialisms and expiry date before you confirm.
- Share your site induction and procedures in advance.
- Brief the driver on your emergency arrangements and who to call.
Drivora checks every ADR driver's specialisms and expiry against your load before we confirm a booking. See ADR driver hire.
This guide is general information to help operators, not legal advice. The rules change, so always check the current GOV.UK guidance or take professional advice for your own operation.