Pricing a telehandler licence in Melbourne starts with the machine you will operate. The cost is different for a non-slewing telehandler over 3 tonnes, a non-slewing machine of 3 tonnes or less, or a machine that slews.
For CTI’s Non-Slewing Telehandler (TV) course, the current fee is $2,000 per person, GST exempt. You also need to pay WorkSafe Victoria’s $75.65 new High Risk Work licence application fee after passing. That puts the starting total at around $2,075.65, before travel, workwear or optional postage.
A telehandler licence is not one universal ticket. In Victoria, the licence class depends on the machine’s rated capacity, whether it slews and, in some cases, the attachment being used.
Identify the telehandler you will operate
People use telehandler and telescopic handler for the same kind of plant. But the licence requirement is based on the machine, not the name used in a job ad.
A non-slewing telehandler does not rotate. A slewing telehandler can rotate. Check the manufacturer’s information plate or manual for the rated capacity, then ask your employer or hire company which attachments will be used.
In Victoria:
- A non-slewing telehandler with a rated capacity of 3 tonnes or less does not need a specific High Risk Work licence. Your employer still needs to provide training, instruction and supervision.
- A non-slewing telehandler with a rated capacity of more than 3 tonnes needs the TV class, unless you already hold an eligible mobile crane High Risk Work licence.
- A slewing telehandler needs a slewing mobile crane licence that matches its rated capacity, such as C2, C6, C1 or C0.
- A telehandler fitted with a boom-type work platform and a boom length of 11 metres or more also needs a WP licence, along with the licence relevant to the machine’s capacity.
So, the $2,075.65 figure in this article applies to CTI’s 3-day TV telehandler course for a non-slewing machine over 3 tonnes. It is not the price for every telehandler course or telescopic handler licence.
Looking for dates? View the Non-Slewing Telehandler (TV) course calendar.
What your telehandler licence cost includes
For the TV licence route, there are 2 confirmed charges and one possible extra.
CTI Non-Slewing Telehandler course
The current cost for CTI’s Course in Licensing for Non-Slewing Telehandler Operations with a Rated Capacity Over 3 Tonnes is $2,000 per person, GST exempt. The telehandler course runs for 3 days.
You need to complete the course and pass the assessment before applying to WorkSafe. CTI provides learning materials through an online portal or by email. If you want the materials to be posted to you, you will need to pay an additional $20.
WorkSafe licence application
Passing your course does not automatically issue a licence. After you pass, you receive an Assessment Number or Notice of Assessment. You then apply through myWorkSafe and pay the new High Risk Work licence fee.
WorkSafe’s current fee is $75.65 for each new licence class. Lodge your application within 60 calendar days of receiving the assessment result. Miss that deadline and you will need to complete the assessment again at your own cost.
Your expected total
Cost item | Amount |
|---|---|
CTI TV telehandler course | $2,000 |
WorkSafe new licence application | $75.65 |
Total with online or emailed materials | $2,075.65 |
Optional posted materials | $20 |
Total with posted materials | $2,095.65 |
All figures correct as of July 2026.
Travel, parking, workwear and time away from paid work are personal costs, so they are not part of this telehandler ticket price.
Why telehandler ticket prices vary
A lower advertised price can look appealing. Before booking, check whether it leads to the licence you need for the equipment on your site.
Training for a non-slewing telehandler of 3 tonnes or less can help an employer train a competent operator. It does not result in a TV High Risk Work licence. That may suit the machine you use, but it is a different outcome.
The TV class also does not cover a slewing telehandler. You need an appropriate slewing mobile crane licence for that machine, and the training fee will depend on the class required.
Attachments can change the licence picture too. A boom-type work platform on a telehandler with an 11-metre or longer boom calls for a WP licence in addition to the relevant telehandler or crane licence. Check this before you book.
What to check before you book
A quick check of the machine plate and a conversation with your employer can stop you from choosing the wrong course.
Confirm the rated capacity
Rated capacity is the maximum load the telehandler can lift with fork arms fitted and the boom fully retracted. It is not the capacity printed on a specific attachment.
Ask whether the machine slews
If the upper structure rotates, it is a slewing telehandler. The TV course is for non-slewing telehandlers only.
Check the attachment and boom length
Find out whether a boom-type work platform will be used. If the boom is 11 metres or longer, you may also need a WP licence.
Check what the quote covers
Ask whether the quoted telehandler ticket price covers training, assessment, materials and any re-assessment charges. Also ask whether the WorkSafe application fee is included or paid separately.
Contact CTI before booking to check the current price, dates and charges for your enrolment.
Plan for the WorkSafe application
After you pass, keep your Assessment Number or Notice of Assessment, check your identity documents and set up your myWorkSafe account using the same email used for your assessment.
If the online application is approved, you can access a digital licence through myWorkSafe straight away. Your plastic card follows by mail, and the licence is valid for 5 years.
Training and licensing are separate steps. Budget for both, and you will have a clearer view of your telehandler licence cost in Melbourne.
Frequently asked questions
What does it cost to renew a TV telehandler licence in Victoria?
WorkSafe’s current renewal fee for a High Risk Work licence is $57.20. A TV telehandler licence is valid for 5 years, so put the renewal date in your calendar once you receive it.
Can I add the TV telehandler class to an existing High Risk Work licence?
Yes, but you still need to complete TV training and assessment before applying to add the class. WorkSafe charges the new application fee for each High Risk Work licence class.
Does a mobile crane licence cover a non-slewing telehandler over 3 tonnes?
It can. WorkSafe lists CN, C2, C6, C1 and C0 as eligible licences for operating a non-slewing telehandler with a rated capacity over 3 tonnes. Check that your licence is current before accepting the work.
View the course calendar to see upcoming dates for our telehandler course. And if you’re not sure which ticket you need, enquire now and tell us what work you’re doing.
