Do You Need a Licence to Operate a Skid Steer Loader?

In need of a skid steer ticket in Perth

Skid steering loaders or Bobcats (named after one of the leading manufacturers of these machines) are highly versatile earth moving vehicles available in a variety of sizes. Mainly used for digging, skid steering loaders have a number of compatible attachments that perform a wide range of tasks. We’re going to have a look at the Bobcat operation and the associated skid steering loader licence required.

The short answer here is whether you need a licence, depends on the project and the type of use. If the skid steering loader is used for private and non-commercial purposes, a licence is not required. In such cases, the hiring company would like to insure that you are a competent operator prior to the rental of the vehicle.

If you intend to operate a skid steering loader in commercial settings, you are required to take a skid steering loader training course through a registered training organisation (RTO). Upon successful completion, you will receive a Statement of Attainment to confirm that you have completed the training and assessment required to operate the skid steering loader safely.

In This Article

What is the skid steering loader operator doing?
Is a licence required to hire a skid steering loader?
Are skid steering loaders easy to operate?
How am I supposed to find Bobcat courses and skid steering loader training in Australia?
What’s the cost of getting a Bobcat ticket?
How am I going to hire a skid steering loader?

What do Skid Steering Loader Operator Do?

The skid steering loader offers versatility, so the operator will find that no two days are the same. The following may be included in the range of Bobcat tasks performed on site:

Holes or trenches digging
Moving large objects around a building site
Moving the Earth or the Dirt
Grading of the
Cement Jackhammering
Loading of trucks
Clean-up of site
Spreading materials
The Road Sweep
Backfill
Preparation of Turf

In addition, a commercial skid steering loader operator may be required to:

Calculate safe workloads
Interpreting drawings and sketches
Application of site and equipment safety requirements
Conduct calculations of basic earthworks
Choose, remove and fit attachments
Maintenance of machine operator
Maintain an accurate log of work

Is a licence required to hire a skid steering loader?

A licence is not required to hire a skid steering loader if the machine is used for private and non-commercial purposes. However, if the machine is used for commercial applications, the supplier of Bobcat may insist that the operator is the holder of the Statement of Attainment.

At the bare minimum for private use, the operator should be familiar with the safety and operational specifics prior to the operation of the machine. Some skid steering loader suppliers provide on-site training and machine testing before you use it.

Are skid steering loaders easy to operate?

Bobcats are relatively easy to operate with two joysticks offering full control over the steering wheel. The first joystick moves the machine forwards, backwards and around, while the other joystick lifts, lowers and tilts the bucket.

Some good tips if you hire a skid steering loader for the first time include:

Take a close look at where the Bobcat will be used and what you need to do before you hire it.
Get acquainted with the skid steering loader manual and components prior to operation.
Just educate yourself about the functions you’re going to use. Skid steering loaders can perform more advanced functions with additional attachments, such as augers and ploughs, which you may not be able to use for simple dirt movements.
Budget more time to complete a task than you might initially think is necessary. It’s important to get comfortable with the cab and practise moving the machine and using the bucket.
Start with a simple task for your first skid steering loader hire, such as basic digs or material relocation.

How am I to find Bobcat courses and skid steering loader training in Australia?

If you’re planning to do business and want to get your skid steering ticket, there are a lot of RTOs around Australia. A typical skid steering training course will run for 1 to 3 days depending on your level of experience. Typically, these courses will cover the following:

Applicable legislation and standards related to the operation of a skid steering loader
Risk management, control procedures and preparation for skid steering loader operation
Driving and operating a skid steering loader, including the various techniques required to meet changing working conditions
Selection, fitting and removal of attachments
Relocation of the skid steering loader to another location
Maintenance of routine operator

Reach out to our friendly team and inquire about bobcat or skid steer training today!