Operate Boom Lifts Over 11 Metres with a Nationally Recognised EWP Ticket
If you’re working in construction, warehousing, maintenance, or infrastructure and need to operate a boom-type Elevated Work Platform (EWP) over 11 metres, you’ll need a High Risk Work Licence – WP Class. It’s a legal requirement—and a smart move if you’re serious about safety and compliance at height.
In this guide, you’ll learn:
- What an EWP Licence is
- How long it lasts
- Whether it includes Working at Heights training
- How to get certified with Major Training
What Is an EWP Licence?
An Elevating Work Platform (EWP) Licence allows you to legally operate boom lifts with a reach of 11 metres or more.
This includes:
- Boom lifts
- Cherry pickers
- Truck-mounted EWPs
Holding an EWP Licence (WP Class) proves that you’ve been trained to operate at heights safely and responsibly, in line with Australia’s WHS standards.
How Long Does an EWP Licence Last?
Your EWP Licence is valid for five years from the issue date. Before it expires, you’ll need to complete a renewal process to keep working legally.
Don’t let it lapse: If your licence expires for more than 12 months, you might need to complete training and assessment all over again.
How to Renew Your EWP Licence
- You’ll receive a renewal notice from your state WHS authority (e.g., WorkSafe, WHSQ).
- Complete the form and pay the renewal fee.
- Submit before your licence expires.
Does an EWP Licence Include Working at Heights Training?
Not quite. There’s a clear difference between the two:
| Certification | Covers |
|---|---|
| EWP Licence (WP Class) | Operating boom-type EWPs over 11m |
| Working at Heights | Fall prevention, harness use, access systems, rooftop safety |
Why Get Your EWP Ticket with Major Training?
At Major Training, we offer a course that’s flexible, hands-on, and straight to the point.
Here’s what sets us apart:
- Train on real machines at real worksites
- Learn from experienced trainers
- Multiple locations
- Nationally recognised certification
EWP Licence Course Overview
- Duration: Approx. 3 days
- Cost: From $695
- Location: Morayfield & Yatala
- Assessment: Theory and practical components
- Pre-requisite: Basic English & numeracy
Who Needs an EWP Licence?
You’ll need a WP Class Licence if you work with or around:
- Boom lifts exceeding 11 metres
- Elevated truck platforms
- Infrastructure or maintenance crews
- Warehouse access systems
- Powerline or utility equipment
EWP Licence vs Yellow Card – What’s the Difference?
| Licence Type | Covers | Legal Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| EWP Licence | Boom-type EWPs over 11m (WP Class) | Yes (High Risk) |
| Yellow Card | Scissor lifts, under-11m EWPs (non-boom) | No (not high risk) |
What You’ll Learn in Our EWP Course
- How to inspect and safely operate an EWP
- Understanding load ratings and risk controls
- Proper use of harnesses and fall arrest systems
- WHS protocols and emergency procedures
- Preparation for your HRWL WP Class assessment
What to Bring on Training Day
- 100 points of valid ID
- Steel-capped boots and high-vis gear
- Your Unique Student Identifier (USI)
Ready to Get Certified?
- Call 1300 790 822 to speak with our training team
- Book online at major.edu.au
- Choose a date and location
- Attend and pass the training
FAQs – EWP Ticket Queensland
Is an EWP High Risk Work Licence recognised across all Australian states?
Yes. The High Risk Work Licence (HRWL) system is nationally consistent under the model Work Health and Safety legislation, which means a WP Class licence issued in Queensland is recognised in NSW, Victoria, South Australia, and other harmonised states. The unit of competency (TLILIC0005) is the same regardless of where you complete your training, and the licence is issued by each state’s WHS regulator using the same national framework. Western Australia and Victoria have their own licensing arrangements but generally recognise qualifications from harmonised states for workers moving interstate. If you’re planning to work across state borders, it’s worth confirming recognition with the relevant state regulator before you start work. Find out where Major Training delivers the EWP Licence course.
What’s the difference between an EWP ticket and an EWP licence?
This is one of the most common points of confusion. An EWP ticket covers the operation of elevating work platforms under 11 metres, such as scissor lifts and smaller boom lifts, and results in a Statement of Attainment. An EWP licence (TLILIC0005) is a High Risk Work Licence (HRWL) required for boom-type EWPs with a reach of 11 metres or more. The licence is issued by your state’s WHS regulator, not just by the RTO, and it’s valid for 5 years before it needs to be renewed. So while both qualifications are about working at height, the over-11-metre licence is a legal licence, not just a ticket, and carries more weight with employers and on regulated job sites.
How do you get an EWP licence in Queensland?
You need to complete the TLILIC0005 unit through a Registered Training Organisation, which covers both classroom theory and hands-on practical operation of boom lift equipment. After passing your assessment, you’ll receive a Statement of Attainment and a Candidate Assessment Summary (CAS). You then apply for your High Risk Work Licence through WHS Queensland. You have 60 days from your assessment to submit the application, or you may need to be reassessed. The licence itself is issued by the regulator, not the RTO. Major Training delivers the course across multiple Queensland locations, including Brisbane, Gold Coast, and Sunshine Coast.
How long does the EWP over 11 metres course take to complete?
The course is typically completed over one to two days, combining theory on WHS legislation, hazard identification, pre-operational checks, and risk assessment with practical time actually operating a boom lift. The exact duration can vary depending on your prior experience and the delivery format of your training provider. Once you’ve completed training and passed your assessment, you’ll receive your Statement of Attainment on the day, and then it’s simply a matter of lodging your HRWL application with your state regulator. It’s one of the faster pathways to a nationally recognised high-risk work licence. Check availability on Major’s course schedule.
How long is an EWP licence valid for, and how do you renew it?
Your EWP High Risk Work Licence is valid for five years from the date it’s issued. Before it expires, you’ll receive a renewal notice from your state WHS authority. The renewal process involves completing the renewal form and paying the applicable fee. It’s important not to let your licence lapse if it expires for more than 12 months, as you may be required to complete the full training and assessment again from scratch, rather than simply renewing. Keep an eye on your expiry date and start the renewal process well before the deadline to avoid any gap in your ability to work legally.
What jobs can you get with an EWP licence over 11 metres?
Holding an EWP over 11m licence opens up roles across a wide range of industries. In construction and civil works, you’ll be qualified to operate as an EWP operator, trades assistant, or maintenance technician on site. In mining and resources, it supports roles in plant operation and shutdown work. Facilities and building maintenance, industrial work, utilities, and even event rigging all regularly require operators with this licence. It’s a relatively quick qualification to earn, and it meaningfully broadens your employability, especially combined with other plant or high-risk tickets. If you’re building a career in civil construction or plant operation, browse Major’s civil construction courses to see what else stacks well with this licence.
Don’t Risk It—Get Qualified Today
Whether you’re starting out or upskilling, getting your EWP Licence with Major Training keeps you compliant, confident, and job-ready.
Call 1300 790 822 or enrol online to get started.
Earn Your EWP Licence Today
Find out what’s covered in Major’s EWP over 11 metres course and how to book your spot.
