RTITB Rough Terrain Truck training provides operators with the skills to safely use forklifts in challenging outdoor environments such as construction sites, farms, and docks. As of January 19, 2026, the course follows updated ABA workplace transport categories designed to simplify classifications and align with modern equipment standards. 

Updated 2026 Equipment Categories

The Accrediting Bodies Association (ABA) has restructured the J-series categories for 2026. Key categories now include: 

J1: Rough Terrain Masted Lift Truck (Standard rough terrain forklift).

J3: Rider Rough Terrain Telescopic Truck (formerly J2 and J3; height restrictions removed for training).

J7: Rider Rough Terrain Telescopic Truck – 360° Slew.

J8: Rider Articulated Telescopic Loader with Fork Arms. 

Course Durations

The length of the course is determined by the operator's experience level: 

Novice Course (3–5 Days): For beginners with little or no experience.

Experienced Operator Course (2–3 Days): For those with significant experience but no formal certification.

Conversion Course (1–2 Days): For operators already certified on other lift trucks (e.g., standard counterbalance).

Refresher Course (1 Day): For currently certified operators renewing their registration, typically every three years. 

Core Syllabus

The training covers specialized maneuvers for unpredictable terrain: 

Rough Terrain Principles: Understanding machine stability on slopes, inclines, and uneven surfaces.

Safety Legislation: Responsibilities under the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974, PUWER, and LOLER.

Advanced Maneuvering: Driving on/off ramps, through chicanes, and handling loads in confined areas.

Hazard Identification: Spotting site-specific dangers like trenches, soft ground, and adverse weather.

Pre-Use Inspection: Daily checks tailored for rough conditions, including tires, hydraulics, and structural integrity. 

Certification and Assessment

To qualify, candidates must pass three mandatory assessments: 

Written Theory Test: A multiple-choice exam covering safety codes and operational knowledge.

Pre-Use Inspection Test: A practical check of mandatory safety-critical machine components.

Practical Operating Test: A skills-based assessment on uneven ground, including stacking/destacking and reversing. 

Successful delegates are registered on the National Operator Registration Scheme (NORS) and receive an RTITB eCertificate and eCard, valid for three years.