Get the CPCS Red Card you need to operate telescopic handlers (telehandler) legally and confidently on UK construction sites.
Group bookings and on‑site delivery available. Contact us for a quote — our team typically responds within one working day.
About the Course
This course prepares you to operate a telescopic handler safely, in line with CPCS standards. It’s suitable for candidates with limited or no previous formal training, covering safe operation, pre-use checks, load handling, and machine stability, alongside full preparation for the CPCS theory and practical tests. Telehandlers are used extensively across construction, agricultural, and industrial sites for lifting, loading, and material handling, making this one of the most widely required plant tickets in the industry.
Who Is This Course For?
This course is ideal for:
Individuals new to telescopic handler (telehandler) operation
Operatives requiring formal CPCS certification
Site operatives, labourers, and plant operators involved in lifting and material movement
Those progressing into plant operations roles
Key Course Information
Accreditation: CPCS
Duration: 4-5 Days (depending upon location)
Test Only Option: Available for experienced operators
Card Validity: 2 Years
CITB Grant: Available
Finance Options: Flexible payment options available
Location: Nationwide
Entry Requirements
To attend the CPCS A17 course or test, candidates must have:
A valid CITB Health, Safety & Environment (HS&E) Test passed within the last 2 years
A good understanding of spoken and written English
What You Will Learn
Operate the telescopic handler for normal site tasks
Assess whether loads are safe to lift
Understand machine operation and routine servicing/maintenance requirements
Understand how load weight, size, gradients, and ground conditions affect stability
Travel loaded and unloaded over rough, steep, and level ground
Manoeuvre safely in confined spaces
Configure the machine for lifting and load transfer duties
Identify hazards including underground and overhead services
Lift and remove loads at full extension and working height
Transfer and place loads accurately
Load, store, and transport materials
Understand pallet construction and safe handling requirements
Assessment
Training includes classroom theory and practical exercises, followed by the CPCS Technical Tests.
Please note: Candidates taking the test‑only route should already have substantial, recent on‑site experience operating a forward tipping dumper. Practical experience is strongly recommended before attempting the CPCS tests.
Certification
Successful candidates will receive the CPCS Red Trained Operator Card for the A17C Telescopic Handler (All Sizes exc. 360 Slew) category, valid for 2 years.
CITB Grant Funding
If you’re an employer registered with the CITB, you may be able to claim grant funding to offset the cost of this course. Grants are paid per candidate and can significantly reduce the investment for your business.
Our team can walk you through the eligibility criteria and help you submit your application. Visit the CITB grants page for current rates, or call us to discuss.
Progression – Upgrade to Blue Card
To progress to the CPCS Blue Competent Operator Card, you’ll need:
This demonstrates long-term competency and is required by many principal contractors for ongoing site access. We can advise on NVQ pathways when you’re ready.
Official CPCS Resources
For full details on the CPCS A17 Telehandler tests, including the practice theory questions and practical test specification, please visit the official CPCS (NOCN Job Cards) website:
Industrial Forklift
CPCS A46 Piling Rig Driven Above
CPCS A47 Piling Rig Bored Below
