FAQ’s How to Get a Forklift Licence in Australia

In need of training for a LF licence in Perth?

Not all forklift driving courses are the same thing. Before enrolling in a course, a little company research needs to be done to insure that you get what you need from the course they offer. Some courses cost more than others for a reason, whether it’s because you benefit from what you need to know before you enroll.

Questions that should be asked by your course provider

• What’s your average pass rate?
• How many people are usually at once in the course? (Size of class)
• How’s your training environment? (Try simulating your own workplace)
• How much is it going to cost to restart the test if I fail and when can I do it?
• Are you a certified company?
• What specific machinery is the course of action?
• How many years has the programme been going on?

Frequently Asked Question

What are the prerequisites for obtaining a forklift licence?

You must be at least 18 years old
You need a basic understanding of the English language (verbal & non-verbal)
You will need 100 identification points at the test (e.g. passport, drivers licence, birth certificate, proof of address)

License Types: LF or LO?

LF: allows you to operate any forklift (with the exception of the picker/stock picker forklift)
LO: Allows you to operate an order picker/stock picker forklift only

What’s the Duration of the Course?

Courses may vary depending on your needs and whether you’re completely new to forklifts or just need a refresh course. Courses shall include:

1-day forklift course: appropriate for experienced drivers who already understand the basics of driving forklifts; often used for refreshing skills and improving safety at work.
2 day forklift course: This type of course is for beginners with little or no understanding of how to operate a forklift.

How much is the price of a forklift training?

Prices will vary depending on the provider of the course. Here’s the price:

1 day course is $450.00 + WorkSafe licence fee.
2 Day course is $550.00 + WorkSafe licence fee.

These courses include a book for learners and are exempt from GST.

What am I supposed to wear to the training course?

It’s suggested that you wear the clothes you’re comfortable wearing. It might be a good idea to wear clothes that you would normally wear in your workplace, so that you can learn in a similar environment. It is also required that you wear closed toe shoes and a high vis safety vest (usually provided) for health and safety reasons.
I’m ready to take part in a forklift driver training course. What am I supposed to do next?

Do your research, please (online, ask co-workers and other companies)
Call the training provider to ask a set of questions (refer to “Questions you should ask your course provider”).
Book the next course at your disposal

How Much Can I Expect to Earn as an Operator of a Forklift?

According to Payscale.com forklift operators in Australia, they earn between $17.20-$22.33 per hour with an overtime average of $27.22-$34.39 per hour. Total annual payment starting at $37,274-$49,953 and an average bonus of $305,21-$1,965.

How Can I Get My Forklift Licence Ready?

Make sure you read the forklift driver manual and read our basic driver tips and hints. Answer the questions to practise at the back of the book. Ask your training provider about their forklift driver manual and practise questions as each training course will have different tests and questions.

Training courses usually involve a written exam of 72 questions. Before you get to the course, make sure you practise the theoretical part.

How Long Does the Forklift Licence last?

Forklift licence must be renewed every five years.

Do I Have to Pay for the Renewal of my Forklift Licence?

To renew your forklift ticket take a photo of the quality of your passport, money to pay the renewal fee and 100 ID points to your local Australia Post office and fill out the appropriate renewal form. This must be done within 5 years of the validity of the licence.