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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:

  • 2-day courses (Day 1 = training, Day 2 = assessment)

  • Flexible options: either at our Sunshine Coast training facility or delivered onsite at your workplace anywhere in Queensland

  • Experienced, accredited assessors

💰 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:

  1. Knowledge Assessment – covers WHS responsibilities, hazard control, forklift stability, load handling, and operating principles.

  2. Practical Assessment – demonstrating safe operation of a forklift, including manoeuvring, stacking, and transporting loads.

✅ If you don’t pass on the first attempt, Jorking Training Group offers a free re-sit for calculations and practical components (knowledge re-assessments incur a $200 fee).

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 WorkSafe Queensland 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 & Assessment: Just 2 days

  • Application Processing: WorkSafe typically takes 4–6 weeks to mail out your physical licence card.

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:

  • Training & Assessment: $650 (Jorking Training Group)

  • Licence Application Fee: ~$100 (WorkSafe Queensland)

Total cost = around $750 per person.

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 Woombye facility 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 WorkSafe.

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.

 
 
 

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