How to Get Your Forklift Licence in Queensland: Step-by-Step Guide
Updated: Sep 3
Operating a forklift is a vital skill in many industries across Queensland — from warehouses and factories to construction sites and logistics hubs. But before you can legally drive a forklift, you’ll need a High Risk Work Licence (LF class).
In this guide, we’ll walk you through exactly how to get your forklift licence in Queensland, including the requirements, training process, costs, and how long it all takes.
What Is a Forklift Licence (LF Class)?
In Queensland, a forklift licence is officially known as an LF High Risk Work Licence.
This licence is very broad and covers you to operate any forklift, regardless of size or capacity, including:
Standard counterbalance forklifts (the most common type used in warehouses and factories)
Reach trucks (used in narrow aisles and high racking)
Off-road forklifts (designed for rough terrain, construction sites, and yards)
Articulated forklifts (pivot in the middle for very tight spaces)
⚠️ Important: With an LF licence, there’s no weight or lift height restriction on the forklifts you can legally operate. As long as you hold a current LF High Risk Work Licence, you’re authorised to drive all forklift types in Australia.
Who Needs a Forklift Licence?
You need an LF licence if you:
Are employed (or seeking employment) in warehousing, logistics, construction, retail distribution, or manufacturing and intend to operate a forklift..
Operate forklifts as part of your role (even occasionally).
Own or manage a business where forklifts are in use.
For businesses, ensuring staff are properly licensed is not optional — it’s a compliance requirement under workplace health and safety law.
Step-by-Step: How to Get Your Forklift Licence in Queensland
Step 1: Check Your Eligibility
To apply, you must:
Be 18 years or older
Have basic English and numeracy skills (for safety and compliance)
Provide 3 types of ID (passport, driver’s licence, Medicare card, etc.)
Step 2: Enrol in a Forklift Training Course
The next step is to book into a nationally recognised training course with an RTO (Registered Training Organisation).
At Jorking Training Group, we offer:
JTG uses a blended format: complete the required online learning first, then attend one day at the Warana training centre for the theory recap, practical training and formal assessment.
💰 Cost: $650 per person at our facility (onsite pricing available depending on numbers and location).
Step 3: Complete the Training and Assessment
Your training is split into two key parts:
Knowledge Assessment – covers WHS responsibilities, hazard control, forklift stability, load handling, and operating principles.
Practical Assessment – demonstrating safe operation of a forklift, including manoeuvring, stacking, and transporting loads.
Practical re-sit policy: As long as no further training is required, the first practical re-sit is free. Conditions apply.
Step 4: Apply for Your High Risk Work Licence
Once deemed Competent:
You’ll receive a Notice of Assessment (AS1 form) from your assessor.
You must apply for your licence through Workplace Health and Safety Queensland (WHSQ) within 60 days of your assessment.
Licence applications are submitted online with your ID and proof of assessment.
💰 Licence Fee: approx. $100 (paid directly to WHSQ).
How Long Does It All Take?
Training and assessment: one attendance day after required online learning.
Good news: once you’ve submitted your application, you can legally operate a forklift using your interim authority while waiting for the card.
How Much Does a Forklift Licence Cost?
Here’s a breakdown of the costs in Queensland:
After you are found competent, the separate High Risk Work Licence application fee is paid directly to WHSQ. Check WHSQ for the current fee.
Total cost is the applicable course fee plus the current WHSQ High Risk Work Licence application fee.
For businesses booking multiple staff, group pricing may apply.
Choosing the Right Training Provider
Not all training providers are equal. Here’s what to look for:
✅ Must be a Registered Training Organisation (RTO)
✅ Trainers with real industry experience
✅ Options for onsite and offsite delivery
✅ Strong focus on WHS compliance
✅ Transparent pricing and re-assessment policies
Why Choose Jorking Training Group
We’re a Sunshine Coast-based training provider delivering forklift licensing courses across Queensland.
Here’s what sets us apart:
Accredited assessors with years of real-world experience
Flexible delivery – at our Warana training centre or onsite at your workplace
Tailored training to your equipment and workflow
Compliance peace of mind – helping you avoid costly WHS fines
Forklift Licence FAQs
Can I get my forklift licence online in Queensland?No. While theory components can sometimes be delivered online, the final assessment must be conducted in person by an accredited assessor.
Is there a written test?Yes. You must pass both a knowledge (theory) assessment and a practical driving assessment.
How long is a forklift licence valid for?High Risk Work Licences in QLD are valid for 5 years. Renewal can be done online through WHSQ.
Do I need my own forklift to do the course?No. If you train at our Sunshine Coast facility, all equipment is provided. For onsite training, we use your workplace forklifts to ensure real-world relevance.
Get Started Today
Ready to take the next step?
At Jorking Training Group, we make the forklift licensing process simple, fast, and fully compliant.
👉 Book your forklift training course today and get licensed the right way. 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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