Telehandler Training
On-Site Telehandler Courses
Training that works in the real world—not just the test
We deliver telescopic handler (telehandler) training directly on your premises, helping employers ensure their operators are trained safely, competently, and in line with recognised industry standards.
All courses follow ITSSAR guidance and the Health and Safety Executive’s Approved Code of Practice, supporting your legal responsibilities while developing operators who can work safely in real workplace conditions.
Training combines essential knowledge with practical, hands-on instruction using your equipment and environment. The focus is not just on passing a test, but on producing operators who can use telehandlers safely and efficiently in day-to-day operations.
TELEHANDLER TRAINING FROM A COMPANY THAT CARES
Telehandler Course Specifications
Machine:
Rough Terrain Telescopic Handler
Category:
J3
Specification:
N/A
Accrediting Body:
Independent Training Standards Scheme & Register (ITSSAR)
Maximum Ratio:
3:1:1 (3 trainees, 1 instructor, 1 machine)
Duration:
Novice - 1 trainee = 3 days, 2 trainees = 4 days, 3 trainees = 5 days
Experienced - 1 trainee = 2 days, 2 trainees = 2 days, 3 trainees = 3 days
Safety Refresher - 1 trainee = 1 day, 2 trainees = 1 day, 3 trainees = 1 day
Conversion - contact us
Cost:
Contact us
COURSES DESIGNED TO DELIVER RESULTS
Telehandler Course Breakdown
A novice course for telehandlers contains the following elements.
For experienced, safety refresher and conversion trainees, the list would be shorter.
- Course induction
- The need and reasons for training and statutory requirements (HASAWA 1974 etc.)
- Introduction to equipment/control familiarisation/principles of operation
- Identification/use/adjustment of attachments in pre-determined positions including forks
- Recommended mount and dismount
- Introduction to motive, steering controls and practice
- Basic steering exercises – simple courses
- Advanced steering exercises – figure of 8/chicane/90° approaches
- Battery charging procedures/maintenance
- Operator safety code and relevant handout
- Daily pre-use inspections/refuelling procedures
- Engineering principles/rated capacity/stability
- Simple hydraulics (theory)
- Introduction to hydraulic controls, handling empty pallets low-level
- Load types/handling and weight assessment
- Stacking/de-stacking at low, medium and high levels on industrial racking*
- Stacking/de-stacking at low, medium and high levels bulk stacks*
- Stacking/de-stacking at low, medium and high levels cup post pallets*
- Manoeuvring with loads/ramps and inclines/handling awkward loads*
- Relevant safety film
- Vehicle loading and unloading (theory)*
- Vehicle loading and unloading (practical)*
- Multi-choice theory test
- Pre-use inspection test
- Practical skills test
* To be covered where relevant to operation or facilities permit
WHATEVER YOUR LEVEL, WE HAVE YOU COVERED
From in-depth beginners to safety refresher courses
ITSSAR-Accredited Telehandler Training
All courses are ITSSAR-accredited and recognised throughout the industry.
Novice Level Training
Trainees with little or no previous experience operating the relevant truck.
Experienced Level Training
Trainees with relevant, recent experience who have not received any approved training.
Safety Refresher Training
Periodic forklift refresher training for experienced operators who hold an accredited certificate.
Conversion Training
Training on a truck of a similar level to the one that the operator has already been trained, tested, and certified on.
Delivering the best for your business
Our courses are designed to achieve results
On-Site Telehandler Courses
Every telehandler course we deliver is carried out on our customer’s premises. This approach gives trainees the advantage of being trained and tested on a machine familiar to them, eliminating the need for re-learning on a different truck after the initial training. Upon completing this telehandler course, operators will know how to use these machines safely and efficiently.
We are pleased to offer bespoke training programmes tailored to your business requirements. We will always work around your needs and environment to minimise disruption.
Facilities Required
Firstly, and most importantly, we will need access to your telehandler to conduct your training. Additionally, we require an undisturbed area with ample space for basic manoeuvres and testing. Pallets and realistic loads appropriate to your business are useful; the instructor will provide traffic cones. For the theory lessons, sufficient space is needed for the instructor and trainees to work. A small office with a table, chairs, and power will suffice.
All truck operators must wear safety boots and other personal protective equipment per the company's internal risk assessments. We supply high-visibility vests.
If you have any questions or concerns about the above requirements, contact us to discuss them.
Telehandler Licence Certificates
After completing this telehandler training, drivers are fully licensed to operate in this category. The qualification is nationally recognised and accepted throughout the industry.
Participants will also receive the following:
- An A4 ITSSAR-approved telehandler certificate of basic training*
- A plastic photo identification card*
- A written assessment of strengths and weaknesses*
Additionally, operators are entered or edited onto ITSSAR’s TOPS (Trained Operator Passport Scheme) database for future reference.
\*There is no additional charge for these.
Five-Star Aftercare
Our service doesn't end with your training. At South Coast Forklift Training, we pride ourselves on our exceptional aftercare. This sets us apart from the competition and is one of the many reasons our clients return to us. We're always here to answer any questions and offer advice.
Additionally, after completing our training courses, clients receive:
- Warning when refresher training is due
- All relevant Health and Safety documentation
- Refuelling/recharging poster
- Seven-day pre-use inspection checklist
- Authorisation to operate lift trucks form
- Employer's training record form
Ready to Get Started?
Choose the ITSSAR-accredited training provider that will work with you to deliver high-quality telehandler training at your business premises.
Other Accredited Training Courses
Counterbalance Training
Counterbalance forklifts are the most common type of lift truck used today and are recognised for their versatility. They are essential for many industries and operate indoors and outdoors, making them highly practical for numerous material handling tasks.
Reach Truck Training
Reach trucks are staples in warehouses, celebrated for their exceptional manoeuvrability and ability to access high racking. They are typically chosen for tasks prioritising height over weight, making them perfect for organised, vertical storage solutions.
MLOP Training
The medium-level order picker is an electric-powered lifting and moving truck. The operator stands on a platform positioned in the centre or back. These machines are designed for efficient order picking at medium heights (up to 3 metres).
APPROVED FORKLIFT LICENCES AND CERTIFICATES
Quick Answers to Common Questions
If we haven’t covered all your questions already, please check out more frequently asked questions or contact us.
Forklift Training That Stands Up to Scrutiny
Training delivered on-site using your equipment, in a controlled and safe environment.
We look forward to working with you
On-Site, Relevant Training
Delivered at your premises using your equipment, so operators are trained in conditions that reflect your actual workplace.
ITSSAR-Accredited Standards
Training that meets recognised UK guidance, giving you confidence that your operation stands up to scrutiny.
Clear, Practical Instruction
No jargon or shortcuts—operators gain a genuine understanding of safe working practices, not just how to pass a test.
Straightforward and Reliable Service
Easy booking process, comprehensive insurance cover, and professionally delivered training from start to finish.
Trusted by Businesses Across the South
"Helpful and informative. Confidence boosted, very personable."
GW, Portsmouth, Hampshire
"Great instructor, very knowledgeable and helpful throughout."
JM, Chessington, Surrey
"Insightful and extremely informative with good use of desktop media."
FM, Liphook, Hampshire
Want to see more? Check out our Google reviews.
The Health and Safety at Work Act 1974
“It shall be the duty of every employer to ensure, so far as is reasonably practicable, the health, safety and welfare at work of all his employees.”