How to Renew a Forklift Licence in WA (Step-by-Step Guide)
If you hold a forklift licence in Western Australia, you will have a WorkSafe high risk work licence (HRWL) from an accredited assessor. High risk work licences are valid for 5 years and it is your responsibility to make sure it stays current to remain legally compliant and employable.
Do You Need to Renew a Forklift Licence?
Yes, forklift licences in WA are classed as High Risk Work Licences and must be renewed every five years through WorkSafe WA. You can apply for your renewal up to 90 days before the licence has expired or 4 years and 9 months after obtaining your licence. You have 12 months after the licence expires to be eligible to renew your licence, otherwise you will have to reapply from the beginning. Operating a forklift without a valid licence is illegal and can lead to penalties for both you and your employer.
How Much Does It Cost to Renew a Forklift Licence?
The renewal fee is set by WorkSafe WA. As of July 2025, the cost to renew a High Risk Work Licence is $44. This includes any existing classes you had on your HRWL. Fees are subject to change, so always check the current schedule on the WorkSafe WA website when planning your renewal.
Can I Renew My Forklift Licence Online?
Yes. In most cases, you can complete your renewal online through the WorkSafe WA online services portal. You’ll need:
- A recent passport-quality photo
- High risk work licence number
- Current email or mobile number recorded with Worksafe
- Residential address
- Payment for the renewal fee
Step-by-Step: How to Renew a Forklift Licence in WA
- Create a reminder to renew your licence - 5 years is quite a while, so it can be useful to set yourself a reminder before your licence expires to make sure you remember.
- Start the process early - you can apply for renewal up to 90 days before your licence expires. To avoid any gaps in your licence, it can be helpful to do this earlier rather than later to account for admin time and any obstacles.
- Visit the WA Government website HRWL renewal page - Here you can start your application online and view all the requirements and prices.
- Prepare your documents – including a recent passport photo and proof of ID.
- Start your online application - click the ‘Apply and pay for your application’ button
- Enter your licence number and required documents
- Pay the renewal fee
- Submit your application
- Receive your new licence – You will receive a confirmation email within 14 days of receiving the application. WorkSafe WA will send your updated card.
Can You Work With an Expired Forklift Licence
If you have applied to renew your high risk work licence before it expires you can continue to work until you are advised of the outcome of your application, even if your licence expires.
Can You Renew an Expired Forklift Licence?
It depends on how long it has been expired:
Within 12 months of expiry – You can still renew your licence by paying the renewal fee and submitting your application.
More than 12 months expired – You cannot renew. Instead, you must reapply for a new forklift licence. This means completing an accredited forklift training course again and lodging a new licence application with WorkSafe WA.
However, Equip-Safe offers a one-day assessment only option for those with previous training or qualifications. This is a convenient option for our nationally recognised forklift training course (high risk) that will allow you to attain your WorkSafe high risk work licence. To be eligible for this course you must be deemed eligible by Equip-Safe after review of declaration.
Please contact Equip-Safe on 9358 5772 or admin@equipsafe.com.au if you wish to enquire on this option including pricing.
Stay Compliant and Safe
Keeping your forklift licence up to date is essential for compliance, safety, and employment opportunities. If your licence has expired for more than 12 months, you’ll need to retrain through an accredited provider before reapplying.
Equip-Safe offers nationally accredited forklift training in WA, ensuring you’re fully prepared to operate safely and meet WorkSafe requirements.
Enrol in Equip-Safe’s Forklift Training Course today and keep your career moving.
