Take the wheel on a diverse career path as a driver. Graduate with confidence and on-road heavy vehicle experience with this highly practical course.
Through a mixture of theory and practical course work, learn to:
Conduct vehicle pre-operational inspections
Assess and identify driving risks and hazards
Monitor road conditions and adapt driving operations accordingly
Lift, lower and carry safely and efficiently
Push and pull safely and efficiently
Experiment with and adapt fatigue management strategies
Gain practical experience and develop specialist skills that give you an advantage in the job market.
A nationally recognised qualification
Real life and simulated experience driving a heavy rigid vehicle under expert guidance
Specialist strategies to reduce fatigue and apply low risk driving behaviours
A pathway to further study in supply chain operations
This course requires evidence of previous experience or study before you can enrol
An unrestricted vehicle licence as evidenced by a copy of your current drivers licence
During your study you’ll need to provide your teacher with the following evidence:
A heavy vehicle licence - you will need this before you can undertake the units involving the operation of a heavy rigid vehicle or a heavy combination vehicle
To be prepared for this course, we recommend that you have:
Some experience in driving operation roles in the transport and logistic industry
The ability to stay alert and responsive while on the road
Your own protective boots, high-visibility vest, long pants and safety glasses
A computer and the internet to access course resources
Language, Literacy and Numeracy (LLN) at a Year 10/12 high school level
TAFE NSW may ask you to complete a Language, Literacy and Numeracy (LLN) skills test. This helps us to understand your individual study needs, to design an individualised plan that supports your study success and ensures your LLN skills match the demands of the course.
TAFE NSW is committed to meeting the learning needs of every community. Meeting these needs can mean there are additional entry requirements at different campus locations. Check your preferred location for further requirements. If you need help preparing for study, contact us to find out how we can support you.
Our graduates go onto roles like: heavy vehicle driver, supply chain operator and line haul driver.
Upon graduating from the Certificate III in Driving Operations and depending on your career goals, you may require an additional license to enter the industry. For example, if you're wanting to move dangerous goods, become a bus driver, or a tow truck driver. It’s important to check the licensing, legislative, regulatory and certification requirements relating to your future career by visiting [Service NSW] (https://www.service.nsw.gov.au/services/driving-and-transport/driver-and-rider-licences) or your state licensing body.
Take your study further with other courses offered at TAFE NSW:
Begin here to gain experience and confidence in this study area.
The Certificate III in Driving Operations does not have any pre-requisite courses.
Advance your skills to take your career to the next level
Strengthen your expertise and gain specialist skills to expand your employability.
At TAFE NSW, we recognise your previous study and work experience. You can apply for recognition of prior learning or a credit transfer with any of our courses. If you're successful you'll get your qualification faster.
Courses are made up of a combination of both core and specialty units. In the Certificate III in Driving Operations qualification, you’ll need to successfully complete 15 units of competency , including 5 core and 10 speciality units.
Please note, not all specialty units are offered at every TAFE NSW location. It is highly recommended that you check with your preferred campus for information about the specialty units offered at that location.
Core units are central to the job outcomes of a particular industry or occupation. These are the units industry has agreed are essential to be capable and qualified at a particular study level.
TAFE NSW provides support services across all campus locations and online. Whatever your needs or circumstances, we have the people, resources, counselling and facilities to support you in focusing on your studies.
TAFE NSW Disability Support Service
TAFE NSW Language, Literacy and Numeracy (LLN) support
TAFE NSW Aboriginal Support; Learner support (ABE)
TAFE NSW Careers, Counselling and Pathways Service
TAFE NSW Libraries
Scholarship programs – be supported as you explore your talents and fulfil your potential
Read&Write literacy and study support software is available free for all TAFE NSW students to use while studying on campus and at home
LinkedIn Learning – an online resource which offers innovative courses and tutorials to improve your personal and professional skills
Student associations – get social with our student community