I want to be a Pilot, How & Where do I start?

QLD

Must have a full Drivers License
Record of Movement completed for all loads
Level 1:
Do an approved training course or pass a written driving test at TMR Offices.
You are not permitted to do Traffic Control or direct traffic in any manner.
Level 2:
Gain Level 1 qualification.
Complete the approved training course (if not previously done)
Complete 12 loads in the QLD Record of Movement Book and submit these records to your RTO.
Apply  for your License upgrade.
Renew Industry Authority every 3 years
Renew TLIF3060 every 3 years to work in VIC as Level 2/Certified

NSW & ACT 

P Plates Acceptable
No Training, No License required. 
You are not permitted to do Traffic Control or direct traffic in any manner.
You must work according to the NSW OSOM Additional Conditions & Class 1 Operators Guide
You should also carry a copy of the Additional Access Conditions & the NSW Class 1
Load Carrying Operators Guide

VIC & TAS

Must have a full Drivers License
Uncertified:
No Training, No License required.
You are not permitted to do Traffic Control or direct traffic in any manner.
Certified: 
Gain 12 Months Experience (Min 20 Loads)
Complete the approved training course.
Apply online to VicRoads: Click here
VIC will accept WA/NT/QLD licensed or accredited pilots to the level of your current Industry license. 
Renew CPVD (or State equivalent) License and TLIF3060 every 3 years.
All pilots must renew TLIF3060 to work in Victoria as a Certified Pilot every 3 years regardless of your state’s expiry.
* Proof of 40 Moves  Record Sheet
* TLIF3060 Certificate
Download fact sheet: Pilot Vehicle Driver Fact Sheet [PDF]

SA

P Plates Acceptable 
No Training, No License required. 
You are not permitted to do Traffic Control or direct traffic in any manner.
You must work according to the SA OSOM Load Carrying Vehicle Operators Guide
You must carry a copy of the SA Pilot Guidelines

NT

Must have a full Drivers License
NT Accepts all other states trainings
3.5m – 4.5m wide loads do not required Accredited Pilots
Loads over 4.5m Require Accredited Pilots
Only NT Accredited Pilots can conduct Traffic Control with  NT Issued Authority (instrument in writing)
NT ESCORT STATUS
Loads over 5.5m require NT Escorts
This is a seperate license and currently only available to NT Residents.
There are 6 Modules in this course.
The standard 5 plus  TLIH0006 Plan and Navigate Route

WA

Must have a full Drivers License
Licensed Pilot:
WA Approved Training Course Required.
See approved list (Pilot Training)
Once completed you must apply to Main Roads within 12 months of completion of the course to gain your License
There are 5 Modules in this course and a Bridge Supervision / Laws of the State section.
Authority to close a road for Bridge Supervision and authority to direct traffic with hand signals (WA Only)
You must complete a Record Of Movement for every load whether completed or not.
Renew License Authority every 3 years with a Medical, Refresher Course & Bridge Supervision Module.
Register for the  MySay Transport “Pilot Hub” to receive updates.
Click here for more details
You should make yourself familiar with the various Conditions and Regulations for each state you work in.
Fines can apply for non-compliance of travel conditions
Refer to each State’s Information Page for more detail

 TRAINING MODULES REQUIRED TO OBTAIN A PILOT LICENSE. (State dependant)

  • TLIC3010 – Pilot or escort oversized and/or overmassed loads
  • TLIF3013 – Coordinate breakdowns and emergencies
  • TLIE3009 – Use pilot and escort communications
  • TLIF3060 – Control Traffic as a pilot vehicle operator
  • TLIB0002 – Carry out vehicle inspection
  • TLIF3060 – Western Australia Bridge Supervision (Trainer Specific- some trainers will include this in the Traffic Module)
  • TLIH0006 – Plan and Navigate Route (NT Escort) 

EMPLOYMENT OPTIONS:

  • Self Employed Owner Driver;

You supply a Vehicle with All Equipment, Wages, Insurances, Trainings, PPE and other Items required to survive whilst on the road (Distance Pilot) Do your own BAS/TAX/SUPER. Hire an Accountant/Business Consultant if required. Varied Income, that could take up to 3 months to be deposited. Be your own Boss

  • Employed Pilot Vehicle Driver;

You work for an Employer who supplies the setup Vehicle and pays you a wage. You supply your “accessories”. For example, this could be your own Bedding, Handheld radio, some PPE, Items to use while away at Work such as Fridges, Some Meals, Utensils, Tools  and other Items. Regular Income and Allowances. 

THINGS TO CONSIDER BEFORE HITTING THE ROAD

  • Is my vehicle setup for work (Lights, Radios, Sign, Equipment)
  • Do I have Insurance (Public Liability, Car, Personal, Business)
  •  Am I Ready
  • Do I have the correct License 
  • Do I have enough Capital to get going (2-3 months recommended)
  • What are my running costs (Calculator)