How to become a traffic controller in QLD
Traffic controllers keep workers and the public safe at roadworks and events, using a stop-slow bat to direct traffic. In Queensland, you can’t do the job without accreditation from the Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR), and getting accredited starts with a White Card.
Here’s the step-by-step process, what it involves and how long it takes.
Do I need to be accredited?
Yes. In Queensland, a person must be accredited under TMR’s Traffic Controller Accreditation Scheme to control traffic at road worksites, or at events on the road, where a road closure or part road closure is needed.
Some people who direct traffic don’t need accreditation, including police officers, TMR transport inspectors, school crossing supervisors, SES officers and car park attendants directing traffic within a car park.
Accreditation is specific to Queensland. If you hold traffic control accreditation from another state, you’ll need Queensland accreditation to work as a traffic controller here.
Step 1: Check you’re eligible
To be accredited, TMR says you must:
- Have held a driver licence: an open or provisional driver licence (Australian or foreign) at some point in the last 5 years.
- Pass an offence history check: TMR checks criminal and traffic history, and may refuse accreditation based on charges or convictions in any jurisdiction. Recent assault or drug related offences make accreditation unlikely.
- Be medically suitable: the application form lists medical fitness criteria. If you declare a condition such as poor eyesight, poor hearing or limited mobility, a medical professional must sign the form.
Step 2: Get your White Card
Traffic control training includes 20 hours of supervised work at a real roadwork site, and TMR requires the training provider to be satisfied that you hold a general construction induction card (White Card) before your worksite placement starts.
If you don’t have one yet, our White Card course takes 4.5 hours, costs $99 and you’ll leave with your White Card on the day.
Step 3: Complete a TMR approved traffic controller course
The training must be a TMR approved traffic controller training program, delivered by a registered training organisation (RTO) that TMR has approved. TMR publishes the list of approved RTOs on its Traffic Controller Accreditation Scheme web page. Tradie Training isn’t an approved traffic controller RTO.
The program has 2 parts:
- In-class training: around 8 to 9 hours of theory and a simulated practical exercise, using TMR approved materials, including the Traffic Controller Ready Reckoner.
- On-the-job placement: at least 20 hours of practical experience at a roadwork site under the direct supervision of an experienced accredited traffic controller, recorded in a logbook. The RTO organises the placement, and you’ll finish with an onsite final assessment.
The program includes the national unit RIIWHS205E - Control traffic with a stop-slow bat, along with units covering working safely and communicating in the workplace. Once you’ve completed both parts, the RTO issues your Statement of Attainment.
You must apply for accreditation within 12 months of completing the training.
Step 4: Apply to TMR
You can lodge your application at a TMR Customer Service Centre using the Traffic Controller Accreditation Application form (F4115), and pay the application fee. If TMR already has your digital photo, for example from a Queensland driver licence, you may be able to apply online instead.
You can lodge the application before you finish your training so TMR can start its checks, as long as you provide your training certificate within 3 months. TMR says most applications are processed within 1 to 2 weeks, although criminal history checks can take longer.
Once approved, you’re issued a traffic controller industry authority card.
Step 5: Keep your accreditation current
Traffic controller accreditation lasts for 3 years. TMR posts a renewal notice about 7 weeks before your accreditation expires. To renew, you’ll need to complete renewal training with an approved RTO and show that you’ve been working as a traffic controller. You must not perform traffic control duties with an expired card.
While accredited, you must follow TMR’s Traffic Controller Accreditation Scheme Approved Procedure. Breaches can lead to your accreditation being suspended or cancelled, or a fine.
What does a traffic controller do?
A traffic controller’s main job is to stop and release traffic safely around a worksite using a stop-slow bat, following the traffic management plan for the site. You’ll also communicate with the work crew and other traffic controllers, keep an eye on hazards such as plant and pedestrians, and make sure members of the public get through the site safely.
The work is often outdoors, in all weather, with early starts and night shifts on busy roads. It suits people who are alert, patient and comfortable dealing with the public.
Get started with your White Card
A White Card is the first step for traffic control and most other site-based jobs. Book your course at one of our Brisbane or Gold Coast training centres.