CERAD Blue Light Driving Courses
Take the first step towards a career in emergency response ambulance driving with our Level 3 CERAD driving course (Certificate in Emergency Response Ambulance Driving).
We have worked with
12th October - 5th November
Limited Places
CERAD C1 – Emergency Response Ambulance Driving 19th October – 12th November 2026
2nd November - 26th November
Limited Places
CERAD C1 – Emergency Response Ambulance Driving 2nd – 26th November 2026
23rd October - 16th November
Limited Places
CERAD C1 – Emergency Response Ambulance Driving Weekend course, 23rd October – 16th November 2026
23rd November - 17th December
Limited Places
CERAD C1 – Emergency Response Ambulance Driving 23rd November – 17th December 2026
27th November - 21st December
Limited Places
CERAD C1 – Emergency Response Ambulance Driving Weekend course, 27th November – 21st December 2026
4th - 28th January
Limited Places
CERAD C1 – Emergency Response Ambulance Driving 4th – 28th January 2027
8th January - 1st February
Limited Places
CERAD C1 – Emergency Response Ambulance Driving Weekend course, 8th January – 1st February 2027
Level 3 Certificate in Emergency Response Ambulance Driving
The FAQ accredited Level 3 Certificate in Emergency Response Ambulance Driving (CERAD) is the nationally recognised standard for emergency ambulance driving. Whether you’re starting your career in emergency care or progressing into an ambulance crew role, CERAD is essential if you want to drive under blue light conditions as part of your job.
Our CERAD course is structured as a four-week intensive programme, typically delivered Monday to Thursday, with training days running up to 10 hours each. The programme includes both theoretical and practical elements, led by fully qualified DERADI instructors with operational experience in high-pressure emergency response environments.
Fully qualified blue light driving courses
During the CERAD course, you’ll learn to drive safely and effectively, with full preparation for navigating a wide range of emergency situations on the road. Upon completion, you’ll be qualified to drive emergency ambulances on active duty, including on our own frontline NHS contracts.
The course is designed for individuals who are working or planning to work as Paramedics, Ambulance Technicians and Emergency Care Assistants (ECAs).
frequently asked questions
What is the CERAD ambulance driving course?
The Level 3 Certificate in Emergency Response Ambulance Driving, is a nationally recognised qualification that prepares individuals to drive emergency ambulances under blue light conditions.
Developed to meet the operational and legal standards of NHS Ambulance Trusts, it enables drivers to claim exemptions under the Road Traffic Act and meet the Department for Transport’s high-speed driver training regulations. This qualification is a requirement for anyone looking to work as an emergency ambulance driver in both public and private sectors.
What are the key skills covered on the CERAD driving course?
Throughout the course, learners will develop skills in emergency vehicle handling, advanced roadcraft, risk assessment, route planning, defensive driving and adapting to different environments such as night driving and adverse weather conditions.
What are the Level 3 CERAD course entry requirements?
To enrol, learners must:
- Be 19 years old or older.
- Hold a full UK manual driving licence for at least 12 months.
- Hold a C1 driving licence.
- Be working or intending to work on frontline NHS contracts.
Why train with Central Medical Services?
We’re more than just a training provider; we’re a fully operational medical service delivering real emergency and medical care across the UK. Our instructors are not only DERADI-certified but also active emergency responders. That means your training is grounded in reality, focused on what works in the field, and fully aligned with the standards used across NHS and private ambulance services.
What qualification will I receive from the CERAD course?
You’ll graduate with a fully regulated Level 3 qualification, ready to support patient transport and emergency callouts under blue light conditions. This certificate is recognised and respected across the industry and is a core requirement for many ambulance service roles.
What can I expect from the Level 3 Certificate in Emergency Response Ambulance Driving (CERAD) course?
You can expect a highly structured and immersive four-week training programme, typically running Monday to Thursday (sometimes Friday to Monday) over 10-hour days. Training is delivered by DERADI-qualified instructors with real emergency response experience.
You’ll split your time between classroom theory and extensive on-road driving under assessment. By the end of the course, you’ll have gained the competence and confidence to operate emergency vehicles safely and professionally, fully prepared to support NHS and private ambulance contracts.
If you already hold a recognised ERD certificate from the Police or Fire Service, you may be eligible for Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL).