How Long Does It Take to Get a Forklift Licence in Queensland?
Updated: Sep 3
If you’re planning to get your forklift licence in Queensland, one of the first things you’ll want to know is how long it takes from start to finish.
The good news? You can now complete your forklift training and assessment in just one day with Jorking Training Group’s new streamlined format — while still meeting all licensing and safety requirements set by Workplace Health and Safety Queensland (WHSQ).
Let’s look at exactly what’s involved and how long each stage takes.
The Typical Forklift Licence Process
In Queensland, getting your LF High Risk Work Licence involves:
Completing formal theory and practical training with a registered training organisation (RTO).
Passing both the theory and practical assessments.
Submitting your licence application to Workplace Health and Safety Queensland (WHSQ) within 60 days.
Traditionally, this took two days or more, depending on how the RTO structured their delivery. But new blended and intensive training models — like ours — make it much faster without cutting corners.
The Jorking Training Group 1-Day Format
Our 1-day course is designed for maximum flexibility, especially for busy workers and employers needing staff licensed quickly.
Here’s how it works:
Step 1: Complete Your Online Theory (Before the Course)
Before attending, you’ll complete an interactive online theory component at your own pace.
Covers forklift safety, load stability, and WHS responsibilities.
Can be done from your phone, tablet, or computer.
Usually takes 2–3 hours depending on experience.
Once you complete it, you’re ready for your training day.
Step 2: Attend the Full 1-Day Practical Training & Assessment
Your in-person training and assessment are completed in one attendance day at our Warana training centre, or onsite for eligible group bookings. Check your booking confirmation for the scheduled start time.
Morning:
Hands-on forklift training with an accredited assessor.
Pre-start checks, manoeuvring, stacking, and hazard awareness.
Afternoon:
Formal assessment – both theory review and practical demonstration.
Individual finish times vary depending on assessment readiness.
At the end of the day, you’ll know whether you’ve been marked Competent and can apply for your licence.
How Long the Entire Process Takes
Licence application processing times vary. Check the current WHSQ guidance when you apply. | ||
🟢 You can legally operate a forklift immediately once you submit your licence application, using your interim authority.
Why We Moved to a Single-Day Format
At Jorking Training Group, we’ve trained hundreds of students across Queensland. Over time, we noticed most learners preferred:
Faster certification without multiple travel days.
Smaller class sizes for better individual support.
Online flexibility for theory components.
By combining online theory with a structured one-day assessment, we’ve created a format that saves time while maintaining complete compliance with WHS and AS 2359 standards.
What If You Need More Practice?
Not everyone learns at the same pace — and that’s okay.If you’d like extra forklift time before re-assessment, we offer a Free Extra Training Session for eligible students who’ve completed their online theory and attended the full 1-day course.
Practical re-sit policy: As long as no further training is required, the first practical re-sit is free. Conditions apply.
How to Apply for Your Licence
After you’re deemed Competent:
After you are found competent, the separate High Risk Work Licence application fee is paid directly to WHSQ. Check WHSQ for the current fee.
Your physical card usually arrives in 4–6 weeks, but you can start operating forklifts as soon as your interim authority is issued.
Ready to Get Licensed?
With Jorking Training Group’s 1-day forklift course, you can go from enrolment to licensed operation faster than ever — without sacrificing quality or compliance.
Practical re-sit policy: As long as no further training is required, the first practical re-sit is free. Conditions apply.
👉 Book your forklift training today and get licensed fast, safe, and completely compliant. Current JTG forklift course information JTG’s public LF forklift course is delivered in one attendance day at the Warana training centre, after required online learning. The regular weekday price is $650 per person. See the booking calendar for the current weekday special. Saturday sessions are $750 by appointment. Every LF forklift booking includes TLIF0009 – Ensure the Safety of Transport Activities (Chain of Responsibility), completed 100% online at no extra cost. Training and assessment are delivered by Jorking Training Group on behalf of Neildene Pty Ltd, RTO 40696. As long as no further training is required, the first practical re-sit is free. Conditions apply. Successful students can apply to Workplace Health and Safety Queensland (WHSQ) for the LF High Risk Work Licence.
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