Operating a forklift comes with great responsibility, and keeping your licence up to date is just as important as mastering the controls. In Australia, a forklift licence (LF) is valid for five years, and in most cases, renewal is a straightforward process. However, if your licence expires, you won’t be able to continue working as a forklift operator. Is your renewal date approaching? Or has your forklift licence expired? We’ll guide you through everything you need to know about renewing your forklift licence hassle-free, so you can stay compliant, safe, and job-ready!
How To Renew
As mentioned above, your forklift licence is valid for five years from the date of issue. To avoid any disruptions, it’s recommended to renew it before the expiration date. You will receive a renewal reminder via email and phone, but it’s always best to keep track of your licence’s expiry yourself.
Note: WorkSafe will contact you via email and phone approximately one month before your licence expires. They do not send physical letters.
To renew your forklift licence without requiring retraining, simply complete the necessary renewal application. In WA, you can renew your licence online through the Department of Mines, Industry Regulation and Safety website. You will need:
- Your current high-risk work licence number
- Contact details
- A valid credit card
- A digital passport-standard photograph
Additionally, you will need to pay the renewal fee (currently $44.00). Once your application is processed, you will receive a confirmation email, and your licence will be mailed to the address provided to WorkSafe.
What If Your Forklift Licence Expires?
If your licence expires, you may not be legally permitted to operate a forklift until it is renewed. In WA, you have an additional 12 months after the expiry date to renew your high-risk work licence without needing retraining. After this 12-month period, you will be required to attend a Registered Training Organisation (RTO) to retake a forklift training course and assessment to obtain a new licence.
Note: You must renew your licence within 12 months after it expires. You no longer have the option to use a statutory declaration or Verification of Competency (VOC) after the 12 month to two-year period.
Why Renewing Your Forklift Licence Matters
- Legal Compliance – Avoid penalties and ensure you are legally permitted to operate a forklift.
- Employment Opportunities – Many employers require a valid forklift licence for both hiring and continued employment.
If you feel that you haven’t used your Forklift licence enough over the last 5 years and you would like to be refreshed or updated with this information, we offer a couple of options to do a Verification of Competency or to sit a Refresher course. While a refresher course or a Verification of Competency is not mandatory, it is essential to stay informed about the latest safety regulations and best practices.
Note: After obtaining your licence, it is your responsibility to stay updated on Australian standards, codes of practice, and other relevant regulations.
Forklift Licence – Perth
If you’re interested in obtaining forklift certification or if your licence has expired for more than 12 months, get in touch with the team at WAATA today. We offer convenient one- and two-day forklift courses, depending on your experience. Taught by trainers with industry experience, you’ll gain the skills you need to operate forklifts safely and efficiently, making you an asset on any worksite.
Course Packages
We also offer multiple course packages, combining forklift training with other courses, such as Enter and Work in Confined Spaces, Work Safely at Heights, EWP, and Gas Test Atmospheres. Call or email us now to discuss available packages and enrolment details.
