What you need to know to get that forklift license
Forklifts are incredibly useful in so many workplaces. Lifting and logistical work is immensely easier and faster, thanks to forklifts. However, operating these industrial lift trucks isn’t initially easy and a huge amount of extra care is needed in order to be safe and efficient. In Newcastle and the rest of New South Wales, operating a forklift requires a high-risk work license. If you are planning to learn how to operate a forklift for work or a business, here’s a quick and easy guide to obtaining a forklift license in Newcastle.
The Forklift License
Applicants for a forklift license need to gain a specific set of skills and knowledge in forklift operation. Building materials on a construction site or goods in a warehouse can be very heavy and costly, not to mention operationally essential, but the highest cost is that of human endangerment.
If a forklift was to ever tip over, the vehicle, tines or load could hit or crush a team member. If you are not careful enough, you could cause delays, accidents, or worst of all, deaths. This is why forklift operation is a high-risk, highly skilled job that requires a high-risk work license. The first step to obtaining a forklift license is to identify the type of forklift you will need a license for:
1. Class LF
This license is for all types of forklift except a stock- or order-picking forklift trucks. These lift trucks have a mast and an elevating load carriage with attachments such as a pair of fork arms or others
2. Class LO
This is for order-picking forklift trucks where the load carriage or the lifting media elevates with the operator’s control.
If you plan to operate different types of forklifts, you can have licenses for both LF and LO licenses.
Eligibility to apply for a Forklift License
Here are the eligibility criteria for license applications:
- All forklift license applicants must be 18 or above.
- Applicants need to complete a registered training course from a Registered Training Organisation (RTO) such as CS Transport Training and be assessed as competent by a SafeWork NSW assessor.
- Applicants should be able to communicate well in English for a safer work performance.
Forklift Training Courses are essential for a Forklift License
Training courses from a Registered Training Organisation are essential to obtaining a forklift license because drivers, colleagues, even visitors, are at risk if you don’t exactly know what you’re doing.
Learning how to operate a forklift safely is similar to learning how to drive, except the turning wheel is at the read and the fact that you are carrying heavier and more dangerous loads. SafeWork NSW has reported a decrease in forklift incidents in recent years, but the risks are still there.
Most RTO Forklift training courses have two parts: classroom training and forklift operations training.
During the classroom training, you will learn how a forklift works, the basic controls, and work procedures. You’ll find that your classroom training is hugely important to successfully operating forklifts.
Once you complete the course, an accredited SafeWork assessor from the RTO will assess your progress. Those who show the required skills and knowledge will be considered competent, and so will receive the following certificates and documents:
- Statement of Attainment
The Registered Training Organisation issues this as a certificate of completion to the trainee.
- Notice of Assessment
Applicants can use this as a temporary license while your actual license is in process.
Applying for a Forklift License in Newcastle
After checking your eligibility and completing the required training course, you are now a step closer to obtaining a forklift license.
These are the next steps you need to take:
1. Complete the AS1 Application form issued after your assessment.
2. Prepare a passport-sized picture of you. At the back of your picture, write your name and date of birth.
3. Submit the form to your nearest Australia Post. They will accept your form on behalf of New South Wales’ license issuing authority.
4. Bring 100 points of identification such as your Australian birth certificate, driver’s license, Medicare card, or utility bills.
5. Pay the application fee.
New South Wales’ forklift license is valid for 5 years. To renew the license, you must mail a renewal form 2 months before expiration. You must also submit this form to an Australian post similar to your initial registration. To replace your license, you can do it online or apply by post.
Interstate transfer of Forklift License
Not originally from NSW? If you can transfer state or territory, Australia also allows the transfer of high-risk work licenses. Just contact SafeWork as soon as you relocated.
The licensing authority will validate your license details if it is current or within 12 months of expiry. However, if it is beyond 12 months, you need to follow the steps in applying for a forklift license in Newcastle.
For Forklift Training, Trust CS Transport Training
The key to obtaining your forklift license is rigid training for skills and understanding of this industrial vehicle. Do you need help in obtaining a forklift license in Newcastle? Luckily, there are lots of RTOs across Newcastle.
Looking for competency-based training? Choosing trainers with experience is essential. Backed by30 years of experience, CS Transport Training is an expert in the transport and dangerous goods industry. Our trainers will work with you to help you achieve the required competency. We service Newcastle, Central Coast, Mid North Coast, Port Stephens, and Hunter Valley.
Contact CS Transport Training
It only takes 3 days to complete our training for forklift licensing. We are accredited SafeWork NSW assessors, and we train in realistic working conditions. If you’re good to go, then let’s start working to obtain your forklift license. For other enquiries, feel free to reach us at 0434 366 758 or fill out this contact form. We are looking forward to helping you obtain that license and boost your career opportunities, so contact us today!