Licence to Operate a Forklift Truck

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 defines the skills and knowledge required to safely and competently operate a forklift.

Who needs a forklift licence?

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

What are the prerequisites for forklift training?

• To enrol in this forklift licence course, participants must be at least 18 years old, have a basic understanding of English, and provide 100 points of identification in line with Work Health and Safety (WHS) requirements.

How long does the forklift licence course take?

• The duration of a forklift licence course varies by provider but typically takes 2 to 3 days, including theory, practical training, and the High Risk Work Licence (LF) assessment.

What does the forklift training course cover?

• Forklift training covers planning work activities, conducting routine forklift checks, safely shifting loads, and shutting down and securing the forklift after completing operations.

Is there an exam for the forklift licence?

• Yes. The forklift licence assessment includes both a written test and a practical assessment to confirm you can safely operate a forklift.

What happens if I fail the assessment?

• If you do not pass the assessment, you may usually retake it after 48 hours. Retake policies and any additional costs vary depending on the training provider.

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

• After successfully completing the forklift training and assessment, you must apply for a High Risk Work Licence (LF) through the relevant state or territory WHS regulator and pay the applicable licensing fee.

How much does a forklift licence course cost?

• Forklift licence course costs vary by training provider and location but typically range from $300 to $600.

What forklifts can I operate with a TLILIC0003 licence?

• 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.

How long is a forklift licence valid for?

• 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 obtained your forklift licence, you may operate a forklift without supervision, provided you continue to follow workplace safety requirements.

• 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)