Description

CPCS A31 Ride‑On Roller Course

Get the CPCS Red Card you need to operate a ride-on roller 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 CPCS A31 training covers safe operation, pre-use checks, compaction techniques, and hazard awareness, with full preparation for the CPCS theory and practical tests. Ride-on rollers are essential plant on groundworks, highways, and general construction sites.

You’ll learn to compact granular materials to specification along straight runs, radii, and both supported and unsupported edges — skills tested directly in your CPCS assessment.

Who Is This Course For?

This course is ideal for:

• Individuals new to ride-on roller operation
• Operatives requiring formal CPCS certification
• Groundworkers, plant operators, and site operatives
• Those progressing into compaction or plant-based roles

Key Course Information

• Accreditation: CPCS
• Duration: 3-4 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

• A Valid CITB Health, Safety & Environment (HS&E) Test within the last 2 years
• Good understanding of spoken and written English

What You Will Learn

• Understand operator roles and responsibilities
• Identify key components, controls, and terminology
• Follow manufacturer guidance, regulations, and legislation
• Complete all pre-use checks
• Configure the roller for site travel
• Travel safely over rough, inclined, and level ground
• Manoeuvre in confined spaces
• Configure the machine for compaction duties
• Identify hazards including underground and overhead services
• Compact loose granular materials to specification
• Compact straight lines, radii, and supported/unsupported edges
• Understand compaction principles, requirements, and techniques
• Shut down and secure the machine correctly
• Understand loading and unloading procedures for transport

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 ride on roller. Practical experience is strongly recommended before attempting the CPCS tests.

Certification

Candidates who pass both tests receive the CPCS Red Trained Operator Card for the A31 Ride-On Roller 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

To progress to the CPCS Blue Competent Operator Card, you’ll need:

• Level 2 NVQ Certificate in Plant Operations (Construction) – Compacting
• Valid Health, Safety & Environment Touchscreen Test.

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 A31 Ride-On Roller tests, including the practice theory questions and practical test specification, please visit the official CPCS (NOCN Job Cards) website:

• CPCS A31 Ride on Roller – Theory Test Practice Questions
• CPCS A31 Ride on Roller – Practical Test Specification

Ready to Book?

Check availability, get a quote, or secure your place on the next CPCS A31 Ride-On Roller course. Our team will get back to you within one working day.