Telehandlers, also known as telescopic handlers, are essential machines in construction, agriculture, and industrial settings. Operating a telehandler requires specialized training and certification to ensure safety and compliance with UK regulations. Whether you’re looking to start a new career or add another qualification to your skill set, professional telehandler training is your gateway to better job opportunities and higher earning potential.
At Result Forklift Training, we offer comprehensive RTITB and NPORS-accredited telehandler training courses designed to get you certified quickly and confidently.
A telehandler (telescopic handler) is a versatile lifting machine that combines the capabilities of a forklift and a crane. Unlike standard forklifts, telehandlers feature a telescopic boom that can extend forward and upward, making them ideal for:
✅ Construction sites – Lifting materials to height
✅ Agricultural operations – Moving hay bales and feed
✅ Industrial facilities – Loading and unloading in challenging spaces
✅ Warehousing – High-level stock placement
✅ Infrastructure projects – Civil engineering and utilities work
Key Features:
- Telescopic boom extending up to 17 meters (or more)
- Multiple attachments (forks, buckets, lifting jibs, winches)
- All-terrain capability with robust wheels and high ground clearance
- Load capacity typically ranging from 2.5 to 5+ tonnes
- Stabilizers for enhanced safety when lifting
Telehandlers are classified as “rough terrain” vehicles, meaning they’re built to operate on uneven ground, making them indispensable in outdoor and construction environments.
Why You Need Telehandler Certification
Operating a telehandler without proper certification isn’t just dangerous—it’s illegal and can result in serious consequences.
Legal Requirements:
Under the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) guidelines and the Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998 (PUWER), all telehandler operators must:
- Complete accredited training from a recognized body (RTITB or NPORS)
- Demonstrate competence through practical and theoretical assessments
- Hold a valid certificate of training
- Receive employer-specific familiarization for each work site
Consequences of Operating Without Certification:
❌ For Operators: Risk of serious injury, dismissal, and criminal prosecution
❌ For Employers: Unlimited fines, prosecution, invalidated insurance, and reputational damage
❌ Workplace Impact: Increased accident rates, equipment damage, and project delays
Benefits of Getting Certified:
✅ Legal compliance with UK health and safety laws
✅ Enhanced employability across construction and logistics sectors
✅ Higher earning potential – certified operators earn £25,000-£35,000+ annually
✅ Career progression opportunities into supervisory roles
✅ Insurance validity for both you and your employer
✅ Workplace confidence ,knowing you can operate safely
RTITB vs NPORS Accreditation: Which Do You Need?
Both RTITB and NPORS offer recognized telehandler training, but they serve slightly different purposes.
RTITB (Road Transport Industry Training Board)
Best for: Warehousing, logistics, and industrial indoor/outdoor operations
Key Features:
- Established in 1969, highly respected across UK logistics
- Focus on materials handling and load stability
- Widely recognized by warehouse and distribution employers
- Certificate valid for 3 years, refresher training recommended every 3-5 years
- Strong emphasis on safe working practices
Who Accepts RTITB?
- Logistics companies (DHL, XPO, Wincanton)
- Major retailers (Tesco, Asda, Sainsbury’s)
- Warehousing operations
- Manufacturing facilities
NPORS (National Plant Operators Registration Scheme)
Best for: Construction sites, civil engineering, and building projects
Key Features:
- Established in 1992, construction industry standard
- Covers wider range of plant machinery
- Two card options: Traditional (red) or Trained Operator (blue)
- Traditional card requires NVQ/SVQ, blue card for trained operators
- Refresher required every 5 years for traditional card, 2 years for blue card
Who Accepts NPORS?
- Construction firms (Balfour Beatty, Kier, Morgan Sindall)
- Building sites and contractors
- Civil engineering projects
- Infrastructure and utilities companies
Which Should You Choose?
Factor | RTITB | NPORS |
Industry Focus | Warehousing & Logistics | Construction & Building |
Employer Recognition | Retail, logistics, industrial | Construction, civil engineering |
Certificate Validity | 3 years | 5 years (Traditional) / 2 years (Blue) |
Additional Qualifications | Not required | NVQ for Traditional card |
Cost | Typically lower | Slightly higher for Traditional |
Our Recommendation: If you’re unsure, consider your target industry. For construction and outdoor rough terrain work, NPORS is ideal. For warehouse and logistics roles, RTITB is preferred. Many experienced operators hold both for maximum flexibility.
Who Needs Telehandler Training?
Telehandler certification is essential for anyone who operates or intends to operate these machines professionally.
Job Roles Requiring Telehandler Training:
✅ Construction Workers – Site operatives, groundworkers
✅ Warehouse Operatives – Logistics and distribution staff
✅ Agricultural Workers – Farm operatives, estate managers
✅ Plant Operators – Heavy machinery specialists
✅ Maintenance Teams – Facilities and infrastructure staff
✅ Self-Employed Contractors – Freelance operators
✅ Supervisors and Managers – Site and warehouse management
Career Changers Welcome:
No previous experience operating heavy machinery? No problem. Our novice telehandler courses are designed for complete beginners, covering everything from basic controls to advanced load handling.
Types of Telehandler Courses We Offer
1. Novice Telehandler Training
Who it’s for: Complete beginners with no telehandler experience
Duration: 3-5 days (depending on learner progress)
What’s Included:
- Comprehensive theory training covering safety legislation
- Introduction to machine components and controls
- Pre-operational checks and maintenance awareness
- Practical hands-on training with increasing complexity
- Load handling, stability, and traveling with loads
- Theory and practical assessments
Outcome: Full RTITB or NPORS certification upon successful completion
2. Experienced Operator Training
Who it’s for: Operators with previous telehandler experience but no formal certification
Duration: 1-2 days
What’s Included:
- Refresher on safety regulations and best practices
- Skills assessment and gap analysis
- Practical evaluation on various tasks
- Theory and practical tests
Outcome: Official certification recognizing existing competence
Note: You’ll need to demonstrate your experience during the assessment. If significant gaps are identified, additional training may be recommended.
3. Refresher Training
Who it’s for: Certified operators whose certificates are expiring or have expired
Duration: Half-day to 1 day
What’s Included:
- Update on any legislative or safety changes
- Review of best practices and common mistakes
- Practical skills reassessment
- Theory and practical re-testing
Outcome: Renewed certification valid for another 3-5 years
Important: It’s best to book refresher training before your certificate expires to avoid gaps in your qualification.
4. Conversion Courses
Who it’s for: Forklift-certified operators wanting to add telehandler qualification
Duration: 1-2 days
What’s Included:
- Key differences between forklifts and telehandlers
- Telescopic boom operation and limitations
- Load charts and capacity calculations specific to telehandlers
- Rough terrain operation and stability
- Practical training on telehandler-specific tasks
Outcome: Additional telehandler certification while maintaining forklift qualification
What's Covered in Telehandler Training
Our comprehensive telehandler courses ensure you’re fully prepared for real-world operations.
Theory Training Modules:
Health & Safety Legislation
- PUWER regulations and operator responsibilities
- Health and Safety at Work Act 1974
- Risk assessments and hazard awareness
- Accident reporting procedures (RIDDOR)
Machine Knowledge
- Telehandler components and their functions
- Types of telehandlers and their applications
- Hydraulic systems and boom operation
- Stabilizer use and ground conditions
Load Handling & Stability
- Understanding load charts and capacity plates
- Load center calculations and boom angle effects
- Stability triangle principles for telehandlers
- Traveling with loads at height safely
Pre-Operational Checks
- Daily inspection procedures
- Fluid levels and tire condition
- Hydraulic hose inspection
- Safety devices and warning systems
- Defect reporting procedures
Safe Operating Procedures
- Starting and shutting down correctly
- Attachment selection and fitting
- Working near overhead hazards
- Pedestrian awareness and exclusion zones
- Environmental considerations
Practical Training Exercises:
Machine Familiarization – Controls, seat adjustment, visibility checks
Pre-Use Inspections – Comprehensive equipment checks
Basic Maneuvers – Forward/reverse travel, turning, positioning
Boom Operation – Extending, retracting, raising, lowering
Load Handling – Picking, placing, and stacking at various heights
Traveling with Loads – Safe transport across terrain
Precision Placement – Accurate positioning in restricted spaces
Rough Terrain Navigation – Slopes, uneven ground, obstacles
Attachment Changes – Safe fitting and removal of attachments
Emergency Procedures – Responding to equipment failure or hazards
Assessment Requirements:
Theory Test:
- Multiple-choice questions covering all training modules
- Pass mark typically 80% or higher
- Covers legislation, safety, and operational knowledge
Practical Test:
- Demonstration of pre-operational checks
- Completion of various load handling tasks
- Assessed on safety, accuracy, and efficiency
- Must meet RTITB or NPORS standards
Pass both components to receive your certificatio
How Long Does Telehandler Training Take?
Training duration depends on your experience level and learning pace.
Typical Course Lengths:
Course Type | Duration | Schedule Options |
Novice | 3-5 days | Full days, typically 8am-4pm |
Experienced | 1-2 days | Condensed schedule available |
Refresher | Half-day to 1 day | Morning or afternoon sessions |
Conversion | 1-2 days | Flexible timing |
Flexible Scheduling at Result Training:
We understand that life doesn’t stop for training. That’s why we offer:
Weekday Courses – Monday to Friday availability
Weekend Training – Saturday and Sunday options
Evening Sessions – For shift workers (subject to availability)
Intensive Courses – Fast-track options for urgent certification needs
Can’t commit to consecutive days? Talk to us about split scheduling options that fit around your work commitments.
Telehandler Training Costs in the UK (2025)
Investment in telehandler training pays for itself quickly through improved employability and earning potential.
To know the pricing feel free to
What’s You Can expect
✅ Expert RTITB/NPORS-accredited instruction
✅ Modern, well-maintained telehandlers
✅ All training materials and manuals
✅ Theory and practical assessments
✅ Certification card upon passing
✅ Safety equipment during training
✅ Tea, coffee, and refreshments
No Hidden Fees: Our prices are transparent. What you see is what you pay—no surprise charges for “admin fees” or “certification costs.”
Career Opportunities with Telehandler Certification
Telehandler certification opens doors across multiple high-demand industries.
Industries Hiring Telehandler Operators:
Construction & Building
- Site operatives
- Groundworkers
- General construction roles
- Average salary: £28,000 – £35,000
Agriculture & Farming
- Farm operatives
- Estate maintenance
- Agricultural contractors
- Average salary: £24,000 – £32,000
Manufacturing & Industrial
- Production support
- Warehouse operations
- Maintenance teams
- Average salary: £26,000 – £34,000
Logistics & Distribution
- Warehouse operatives
- Loading bay staff
- Distribution centers
- Average salary: £25,000 – £33,000
Plant Hire & Rental
- Equipment operators
- Demonstration specialists
- Delivery drivers
- Average salary: £27,000 – £36,000
Career Progression Pathways:
Entry Level: Telehandler Operator (£24,000 – £28,000)
↓
Experienced Operator: Multi-skilled with various attachments (£28,000 – £34,000)
↓
Senior Operator: Multiple machine qualifications (£32,000 – £38,000)
↓
Supervisor/Trainer: Team leadership or instruction (£35,000 – £45,000)
↓
Site Manager: Full site operations management (£40,000 – £55,000+)
Additional Qualifications to Boost Earnings:
CPCS Card – Construction industry standard, increases job options
Slinger/Signaller Training – Coordinate lifting operations
IPAF (Aerial Work Platform) – Add height access equipment certification
ADR License – Transport hazardous goods
Multiple Machine Tickets – Excavators, dumpers, rollers
Top Tip: Many construction companies prefer operators with multiple tickets. Combining telehandler certification with forklift, MEWP, or excavator qualifications can increase your day rate significantly.
Why Choose Result Training for Telehandler Certification?
When you train with Result Forklift Training, you’re choosing quality, professionalism, and genuine care for your success.
Fully Accredited Courses
Both RTITB and NPORS-accredited training, recognized by employers nationwide
Experienced Instructors
Our trainers have real-world construction and logistics experience, not just teaching credentials
Modern Equipment
Train on well-maintained, industry-standard telehandlers similar to what you’ll operate professionally
High Pass Rates
98% pass rate because we ensure you’re truly ready before assessment day
Flexible Scheduling
Weekend, weekday, and intensive courses to fit your life
Competitive Pricing
Transparent costs with no hidden fees—we won’t be beaten on value
Comprehensive Training
We don’t rush you through. Our focus is competence, not just passing a test
Ongoing Support
Questions after your course? We’re here to help throughout your career
Convenient Locations
Serving Peterborough, Cambridge, Northampton, Leicester, Huntingdon, Bedford, Luton, and across the UK
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a driving license to operate a telehandler?
For operation on private property (construction sites, warehouses), no driving license is required. However, if you need to drive a telehandler on public roads, you’ll need a Category B license and the machine must be road-legal.
How long is telehandler certification valid?
RTITB certificates are typically valid for 3 years. NPORS Traditional (red) cards last 5 years, while Trained Operator (blue) cards need renewal every 2 years. Refresher training is recommended before expiry.
Can I operate any telehandler with one certificate?
Your certificate covers standard telescopic handlers. However, if you’ll be operating specialized telehandlers (rotating, heavy-lift, or those requiring specific attachments), additional training may be needed.
What's the difference between telehandler and forklift certification?
While both involve lifting, telehandlers have telescopic booms, operate on rough terrain, and have different stability principles. Separate certification is required for each machine type, though conversion courses are available.
What if I fail the assessment?
Don’t worry—your instructor will identify any areas needing improvement before assessment day. If you do need a retake, we offer additional training and reassessment at reduced rates.
Do employers provide telehandler training?
Some do, especially larger construction firms. However, arriving with certification significantly improves your employability and often leads to better starting wages.
Can I get funding for telehandler training?
Depending on your circumstances, you may be eligible for government funding through schemes like the Adult Education Budget, Jobcentre Plus training, or apprenticeship programs. Contact us to discuss your eligibility.
What should I bring to training?
Wear appropriate clothing (long trousers, sturdy boots with steel toe caps) and bring photographic ID. We provide safety equipment (hard hat, high-vis vest) and training materials.
Related Training Courses:
Looking to expand your qualifications? We also offer:
- Counterbalance Forklift Training
- Reach Truck Training
- Bendi Forklift Training
- Forklift Refresher Courses
- Government Funded Training Options
Save Money with Combination Courses: Ask about our discounted packages for multiple certifications.
Result Forklift Training Ltd – Your trusted partner for professional telehandler and forklift certification across the UK.
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