Forklift Licence | Forklift Training

A Forklift Truck is an (electric or gas) powered equipment vehicle. It has a driving compartment and an elevating load carriage with an attached pair of metal “fork arms” at the front.

This fork at the front is used to insert under loads (such as cargo, pallets) in order to transport them more safely and efficiently over short distances. The “lift” part of the Forklift name refers to its capability to lift loads from its base (the driver isn’t elevated at any point).

The carriage moves up and down and can be raised upwards of 9m above the ground to easily transfer heavy and/or many loads. They are most commonly used for industrial purposes, for instance on worksites (construction), warehouses, factories, airports, shipping docks and more.

There are several different types of classifications, sizes and weight loads when it comes to Forklift Truck depending on the job requirements. All Forklifts can only be legally operated by a trained Forklift driver who has the correct licence.

In Australia there are two different types of Forklift licences based on the class of the Forklift:

1. LO License

An LO Licence is required if you want to operate a Load Shifting Order Picker or turret truck/VNA (Very Narrow Aisle truck). Note: the LO Licence will only qualify you to operate the above class of Forklift Truck.

2. LF Licence

An LF License is required if you want to operate a Forklift Truck equipped with a mast and an elevating load carriage with fork arms (or other attachment).

The LF licence will allow you to operate any Forklift Truck, with no size restriction (excluding LO classified Forklift vehicles which require a separate LO License).

Forklifts covered under an LF License include:

•   Counter balanced forklift truck
•   Reach forklift truck
•   Side loading forklift truck
•   All-terrain forklift truck
•   Truck mounted forklift truck

Once you have successfully completed the training course you can request a Forklift Licence (which will last for 5 years before requiring renewal).

Licenced Forklift drivers are in regular demand and this profession is on the rise.

This is largely due to continued growth in e-commerce and the number of industries that deal with building materials and heavy goods that can’t be lifted by people alone.

They are needed in a wide variety of areas and roles, such as (but not limited to):

•   Warehousing and Storage for a range of companies (including large organisations like JD Sports, Amazon, DHL, etc.)
•   Manufacturing, Transport and Logistics
•   Shipping yard
•   Airport Cargo Handling Agent/Freight in the container terminal industry
•   Maintenance Fitter
•   And many more

–   Depending on the employer, work can often be flexible with options of full day, morning, afternoon or night shifts and optional overtime

–   You can choose a job that is either indoors, outdoors or a mix of both

–   Some companies will pay monthly bonuses on top of your regular pay if you reach set targets

–   You will have good job security and plenty of advancement opportunities for your future career

What is a TLILIC0003? (Licence to operate a forklift)

• TLILIC0003 is the national unit of competency for the Licence to Operate a Forklift Truck in Australia. It specifies the skills and knowledge required to operate a forklift safely and competently.

Who needs to complete the course?

• Anyone in Australia who wants to operate a forklift truck as part of their job must complete this course and obtain a forklift licence.

What are the prerequisites for enrolling?

• Participants must be at least 18 years old, have a basic understanding of English, and possess 100 points of ID as per the Work Health and Safety (WHS) regulations.

How long does the course take?

• The duration can vary between training providers but typically ranges from 2 to 3 days, including both theoretical and practical training components and the High Risk Work Licence Assessment (NAI)

What does the course cover?

• The course covers operating a forklift truck safely, including planning work, conducting routine checks, shifting loads safely, and shutting down and securing the equipment after completion of operations

Is there an exam?

• Yes, there is both a written test and a practical assessment to evaluate your understanding and ability to safely operate a forklift.

What happens if I fail the assessment?

• If you fail the assessment, you can usually retake it after 48 hours. However, policies on retakes, including any additional costs, vary by training provider.

How do I obtain my forklift licence after completing the course?

• Upon successful completion of the course, you’ll need to apply for a High Risk Work Licence through the relevant state or territory WHS regulator, submitting the necessary paperwork and paying any applicable fees.

How much does the course cost?

• Costs vary depending on the training provider and location but typically range from $300 to $600.

Can I operate any type of forklift with the licence obtained from TLILIC0003?

• This licence allows you to operate a forklift truck, equipped with a mast and an elevating load carriage with a pair of fork arms or other attachments. This licence class is not for an order picking forklift truck.

What is the validity period of the forklift licence?

• The High Risk Work Licence is usually valid for 5 years, after which it must be renewed.

Can I operate a forklift without supervision after completing the course?

• Yes, once you have successfully completed the course and obtained your forklift licence, you can operate a forklift without supervision, provided you comply with workplace safety regulations.

• Applicants to be at least 18 years of age.
• Able to produce and meet the evidence of identity criteria as per SafeWork / WorkSafe identification requirements.
• Speak and understand English at a level to be able to participate in the training and assessment

Note: Verbal assessments can be arranged for applicants with writing and reading difficulties (extra charge applies)