What is a Forklift?

A forklift is an essential piece of equipment in many industries, used to lift and transport heavy materials over short distances. Forklifts come in different types, and depending on your job requirements, you may need a specific type of licence. In Australia, there are two main classes of forklift licences:

1. Forklift Truck (LF): This licence allows you to operate a standard forklift truck. These forklifts typically have a mast and an elevating load carriage equipped with fork arms or other attachments. This licence does not cover order-picking forklift trucks.
2. Order-Picking Forklift Truck (LO): This licence is for those who need to operate an order-picking forklift truck, where the operator’s controls are incorporated into the platform that elevates with the load carriage. This type of forklift is commonly used in warehouses where goods are stored on high shelves.

Understanding the type of forklift you will be operating is crucial when applying for the correct licence.

Eligibility for a Forklift Licence

Obtaining a forklift licence is a step towards enhancing your career in industries that rely on heavy machinery. However, there are specific eligibility criteria you must meet:

• Age Requirement: You must be at least 18 years old to apply for a high-risk work licence, including a forklift licence.
• Training Completion: You must complete the necessary training in the relevant forklift class through a Registered Training Organisation (RTO), such as DLI Training. The training includes both theoretical knowledge and practical skills needed to safely operate a forklift.
• Competency Assessment: After completing the training, you must be assessed as competent by a SafeWork NSW accredited assessor. This assessment is conducted by the RTO where you completed your training and ensures that you have the required skills and knowledge to operate a forklift safely.
• English Proficiency: It’s important that you have a good command of the English language, as communication is key to ensuring safety in the workplace. This includes being able to understand safety instructions, communicate with colleagues, and follow operational guidelines.

Who Cannot Apply for a Forklift Licence?

You cannot apply for a forklift licence if you have not completed the required training from a recognised RTO or if you have not been assessed as competent by a SafeWork NSW accredited assessor. Additionally, if you are unable to demonstrate proficiency in English, you may not be eligible, as this could impact your ability to perform high-risk work safely.

How Long Does a Forklift Licence Last? Forklift Licence expiry explained.

A forklift licence in New South Wales (NSW) is valid for five years from the date of issue. It’s important to note that if you add any additional qualifications to your licence during this period, the new qualifications will expire at the same time as your original licence. For example, if you obtain your forklift licence in 2024, it will expire in 2029. If you add another high-risk work class in 2024, both the original licence and the new qualification will still expire in 2029.

Renewing Your Forklift Licence

Renewing your forklift licence is crucial to ensuring you can continue working without interruption. Here’s what you need to know:

• Renew Before Expiry: It’s recommended to renew your licence before it expires. SafeWork NSW will send you a reminder via email or text message about 60 days before your licence is due to expire. This gives you enough time to prepare and submit your renewal application.
• Maintaining Competency: To renew your licence, you must have maintained competency in all the classes listed on your licence. If you decide not to renew a particular class, it will be removed from your licence.
• Renewal Period: You can renew your licence up to 12 months after its expiry date if you wish to continue performing high-risk work. However, if you do not renew your licence within this 12-month grace period, you will be required to retake the necessary training with Registered Training Organisation, be reassessed by an accredited assessor, and submit a new application.
• Continuing Work: If you submit your renewal application before your licence expires, you can continue to work under your existing licence until you receive confirmation of your renewal.

What to Do If Your Forklift Licence is Lost, Stolen, or Destroyed

Losing your licence can be inconvenient, but it’s a situation that can be quickly resolved. If your forklift licence is lost, stolen, or destroyed, you should replace it as soon as possible to avoid any disruptions to your work. Here’s how you can replace your licence:

• Online Replacement: The easiest way to replace your licence is through the Service NSW website. By selecting the ‘Replace now’ option, you can complete the online replace a licence application form and pay the replacement fee using a credit card or PayPal. Once your application is processed, you’ll receive a receipt number, which you should keep for your records.
• Paper Form Replacement: If you prefer to replace your licence using a paper form, you can download and complete the ‘replace a licence’ application form available on the Service NSW website. After filling out the form, you can email it to the SafeWork NSW licensing team for processing.
• Keep Your Details Updated: It’s also important to keep your personal details up to date with SafeWork NSW. If your name, address, or other personal information changes, you must notify SafeWork NSW within 14 days. You can do this through the Service NSW website or by calling SafeWork NSW directly.

Choosing the Right Registered Training Organisation (RTO)

Selecting the right Registered Training Organisation (RTO) is a critical step in obtaining your forklift licence. An RTO is a training provider approved by SafeWork NSW to deliver the necessary training and assessments for high-risk work licences. Here’s what to consider when choosing an RTO:

• Accreditation: Ensure that the RTO is accredited by SafeWork NSW to provide forklift training. Accreditation guarantees that the training meets the standards required by law and that the RTO is authorized to issue nationally recognised certifications.
• Training Quality: Look for an RTO with a strong reputation for delivering high-quality training. At DLI Training, for example, we focus on providing comprehensive, hands-on training that covers both the theoretical and practical aspects of forklift operation.
• Flexible Scheduling: Consider whether the RTO offers flexible scheduling options that fit your availability. Some RTOs, like DLI Training, provide weekdays, weekend and evening classes to accommodate working professionals.

Forklift Licence Training Duration

The duration of forklift licence training can vary depending on the training provider and the specific course you choose. At DLI Training, the standard forklift licence course is designed to be completed over two days training and 1 day assessment:

• Day One & Two is Theory and Practical Training: The first day consists of a combination of theoretical learning and practical exercises. You’ll learn about safety protocols, equipment operation, hazard identification, and risk management. Practical training will involve hands-on experience with a forklift, allowing you to develop the necessary skills under the supervision of experienced trainers.
• Day Three: SafeWork Assessment: The another available third day is dedicated to the SafeWork NSW assessment. During this assessment, you will demonstrate your ability to operate a forklift safely and competently in a variety of scenarios. If you require additional training or reassessment, DLI Training offers options to return for further practice at a minimal additional charge.

Forklift Licence Course at DLI Training

DLI Training offers a comprehensive forklift licence course that equips participants with the skills and knowledge needed to operate a forklift safely and effectively. Here’s what you can expect from our course:

• Certification: Upon successful completion of the course, participants will receive a Statement of Attainment, which is nationally recognised and issued by DLI Training (RTO 21714).
• Course Overview: Our course covers all the essential functions required to operate a forklift truck, from conducting risk assessments to performing routine equipment checks. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced operator, our training is designed to build your confidence and competence.
• Course Outline: Key areas of focus include:
  • Assessing hazards and planning the work.
  • Setting up the forklift for operations.
  • Conducting risk assessments and implementing control measures.
  • Performing routine equipment checks.
  • Operating the forklift and maneuvering it through various routes.
  • Practicing different types of lifts and handling various loads.
  • Calculating and determining load capacity.
  • Shutting down and securing the forklift after use.
• Training Environment: Training is conducted in a realistic workplace environment, ensuring that you gain practical experience in scenarios that mirror those you’ll encounter on the job.

Still Have Questions?

If you feel that all your questions haven’t been answered or you need further clarification on Forklift Licence, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. You can call us at 02 8599 2220, and one of our friendly team members will be more than happy to assist you. Alternatively, feel free to send us a message through our enquiry form below.

At DLI Training, we are committed to helping you every step of the way to achieving your forklift licence ticket and advancing your career.