If you work with excavators in NSW, an employer may ask for an excavator ticket, a Verification of Competency (VOC), or both. These documents serve different purposes, so it is important to book the right option.
What Is an Excavator Ticket?
An “excavator ticket” commonly refers to the Statement of Attainment issued after completing nationally recognised excavator training.
At DLI Training, the relevant unit is:
RIIMPO320F Conduct civil construction excavator operations
The course teaches participants how to:
Plan and prepare for excavator work
Identify hazards and control risks
Conduct pre-start safety checks
Operate the excavator safely
Complete excavation activities
Shut down and secure the machine
This course is generally suitable for new operators and people who do not already hold recognised excavator training.
What Is an Excavator VOC?
VOC stands for Verification of Competency. It is an assessment that checks whether an already trained operator can still use an excavator safely and competently.
Employers may request a VOC when:
You start a new job
You begin work on a new site
You return to excavator work after a break
You operate a different machine
The company needs current evidence of your competency
At DLI Training, you must present a Statement of Attainment for the selected plant or machine to undertake a VOC.
Excavator Ticket vs VOC
| Excavator course | Excavator VOC |
|---|---|
| Includes training and assessment | Assesses existing skills |
| Suitable for new operators | Suitable for experienced, trained operators |
| Can provide a Statement of Attainment | Provides evidence of current competency |
| Covers the complete unit | Focuses on practical workplace ability |
Simply put, an excavator course develops and assesses your skills, while a VOC checks skills you should already have.
Which One Do You Need?
Choose the full excavator course if you:
Are new to excavator operation
Do not hold a relevant Statement of Attainment
Need formal training
Want to complete RIIMPO320F
Choose a VOC if you:
Already hold the relevant training evidence
Have excavator operating experience
Need to meet an employer or site requirement
Need to demonstrate that your skills remain current
A VOC does not replace your original Statement of Attainment. Some employers may ask to see both documents before allowing you to operate their machinery.
Does an Excavator VOC Expire?
There is no universal expiry period for every excavator VOC. Employers and worksites may set their own requirements based on company policies, recent experience, equipment changes and the risks involved.
You may therefore be asked to complete another VOC when changing jobs or starting on a new project.
Book Excavator Training or a VOC in Sydney
DLI Training provides nationally recognised excavator operator training in Sydney for new and developing operators.
Already trained? View our Verification of Competency assessments to confirm your current operating skills.
Contact DLI Training if you are unsure which option suits your experience or workplace requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Complete a VOC Without an Excavator Ticket?
At DLI Training, you must present a relevant Statement of Attainment to undertake the VOC.
Does a VOC Replace Excavator Training?
No. A VOC checks existing competency. It is not a replacement for the complete excavator course.
Can My Employer Ask for Both?
Yes. Your Statement of Attainment demonstrates completed training, while a VOC provides evidence that your skills have been recently assessed.