The Ultimate Guide on How To Become A Traffic Controller

how to become a traffic controller

Ever wondered what’s it like to be a traffic controller? Becoming a traffic controller is an exciting career move that offers many opportunities. It’s important to understand the qualifications, certifications, and training required for this job before starting your journey toward becoming a qualified traffic controller.

If you have the skills and qualifications necessary for this important job, why not consider becoming a traffic controller? Your efforts could help keep drivers safe and minimize the amount of time people spend stuck in traffic.

In some states like Queensland (QLD), there are specific regulations in place governing how to become a traffic controller. This article covers the steps necessary to be certified and why enrolling in online traffic management courses can help you obtain the qualifications.

Why Traffic Control is Important?

Traffic control is essential for keeping roads and highways safe for everyone. It involves controlling the flow of traffic and ensuring that drivers, passengers, and pedestrians are aware of any risks or hazards in the area. Traffic control operations can take many forms including warning road signs, lane markings, speed limits, detours, barriers, signals, and more.

Traffic control is not just an important job for safety reasons, it is also vital on keeping traffic moving smoothly. When traffic is backed up due to a construction site or an accident scene, it can cause major delays for drivers and passengers. By having well-trained and professional traffic controllers in place, these delays can be minimized and everyone can get where they are going quicker.

The traffic control industry also has economic benefits. Well-run traffic guidance schemes and traffic management systems can help businesses move goods and services more efficiently and reduce traffic congestion. This can save businesses time and money, while also improving the overall quality of life for everyone in the community.

Why Become a Traffic Controller?

Controlling traffic is an important responsibility and becoming a traffic controller is a privilege and a great way to start a career in the traffic management industry. Also in Australia, completing high school is enough you won’t be needing a bachelor’s degree to work in this job role.

Working in the traffic control industry or in registered traffic management companies not just offers new career and travel opportunities, but also comes with great perks and comprehensive working benefits. While traffic control work may be challenging at times, it is also very rewarding to know that you are helping to keep your community safe.

Traffic controllers play a critical role in ensuring the safety of drivers and pedestrians and keeping our roads and communities secure. Without them, chaos would ensue and the potential hazards for accidents would be greatly increased.

What is a Traffic Controller?

A traffic controller is a trained and skilled professional who is responsible for managing and regulating safe and efficient traffic flow around busy urban areas, workstations, construction sites, accident scenes, and other areas where congestion can occur and safety is a concern.

Traffic controllers may be required to work early mornings, evenings, and weekends. In addition, traffic controllers often must be available on call in case of an emergency.

Traffic controllers work for state or local governments, engineering firms, traffic management companies or in the construction industry. Traffic controllers must also be able to tolerate long periods of standing and walking, as well as exposure to outdoor weather conditions.

How to Become a Traffic Controller?

If you want to know how to become a traffic controller and what traffic control companies require, there are a few things you need to know and meet first. Let’s take a look at the required traffic control training qualifications

Traffic Controller Accreditation by an approved RTO

To be accredited as a Traffic Controller in Queensland, the person must complete a Department of Transport and Main Roads Approved Traffic Controller Training Program. The program must be delivered through a registered training organisation (RTO) approved by Transport and Main Roads to deliver the training program. The program must be completed within the 12-month

period prior to the Traffic Controller accreditation application being lodged with Transport and Main Roads.

Training Program Delivery

The training program has two parts.

Part One

Off-the-job: In-class training program

The program is delivered in a classroom environment using Transport and Main Roads approved training materials and resources. It includes a simulated practical exercise conducted in a controlled environment. It is expected that the off-the-job part be delivered to trainees in eight-nine hours (nominal). This timeframe may be extended if additional training needs are identified during the training program.

Part Two

On-the-job – Industry placement at roadwork site

Traffic control industry employers must be confident that accredited traffic controllers can maintain an environment that is safe for Traffic Controllers, road workers and the travelling public. Trainees must demonstrate traffic control skills in ‘real world’ traffic  situations and be assessed as competent before an authority card is issued by Transport and Main Roads. Trainees must complete a minimum of 20 hours’ practical experience at a roadwork site under the direct supervision of an experienced accredited

Traffic Controller. The trainee’s experience includes a range of practical activities as specified by the RTO including a significant period of STOP / SLOW traffic control activity under close supervision.

The approved traffic controller training program includes nationally registered units of competency?

RIIWHS205E Control traffic with a stop-slow bat,

RIIWHS201D Work Safely and follow WHS policies and procedures and

RIICOM201D Communicate in the workplace.

What happens when the minimum 20 hours’ experience has been gained and verified?

When 20 hours of experience is completed and recorded, the logbook is to be returned to the RTO. The trainer will assess the experience logged taking into account feedback received from the host site manager and any reports from the supervising traffic controllers. The trainer will determine if further experience / training is required on any specific elements. The trainer will then confirm that the trainee is competent through an onsite assessment.

Certificates issued at course completion

At the completion of the full program (parts one and two) a Statement of Attainment will be issued by the RTO. You must then lodge an application with Transport and Main Roads and pay the fee. They will undertake a police check and then issue you a Traffic COntrol Industry Authority card which is valid for 3 years. 

Prerequisites

Driver Licence

The person must have held an open or provisional driver licence (Australian or foreign) within the last 5 years. If the person is already a traffic controller and is renewing their accreditation, this requirement is not relevant.

Offence History

The department may refuse to grant an accreditation to a person who has been convicted or charged with a criminal and/or traffic offence. The public put their trust in persons accredited to control traffic and expect these people to be safety conscious at all times. In light of public interest and public safety considerations, the department may take into account any charges or offences committed in any jurisdiction in deciding whether or not to issue the accreditation. Applicants who have a recent history of offences, for example, assault or drug related offences would be unlikely to be accredited as a traffic controller.

Medical Suitability

The applicant must satisfy certain medical fitness and suitability criteria. This criteria is listed on the Traffic Controller Accreditation Application form (F4115). If a disability such as poor eyesight, poor hearing or immobility is declared on the application form, the form must be signed by an appropriate medical professional to confirm the person’s suitability to undertake the role.

Training Qualifications

The person must have successfully completed an approved traffic controller training course. The training course must be delivered by an approved Registered Training Organisation (RTO).

Application Process

In processing an application to become a traffic controller, TMR undertakes relevant criminal and traffic history checks. While the majority of applications can be processed within 1 – 2 weeks, traffic controller applicants should be aware that delays can occur which are out of the control of TMR. Occasionally criminal history checking will take several weeks or longer due to the nature of the national criminal history checking process.

Be Certified to Control Traffic with Upskills QLD

Enrolling in an traffic management courses is a great way to become a qualified traffic controller in the shortest possible time.

The skills necessary to become a traffic controller are not difficult to learn, and with the proper certification, you can start your career in this field with many job prospects available. The benefits of becoming a traffic controller include a stable career with good pay, opportunities for advancement, and job security.

If you are interested in upskilling, take the first and basic step today by enrolling in an approved traffic control course starting your journey toward becoming a qualified traffic controller.

Ready to get started?

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September 19, 2024

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September 13, 2024

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September 12, 2024

I’d like to give a big shout out to my trainer Scotty at Kippa-Ring not only was he informative and knowledgeable but made the course fun. Very approachable and also open to different opinions, he was also very helpful to others having any type of difficulties through the 3 days I was there doing my TC, TMI and working in proximity modules. Thanks Scotty and look forward to seeing you again once I’ve got my 20 hours up to complete my TC training. 👍

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August 14, 2024

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August 13, 2024

Completed my full Traffic Control course with Upskills training. Incredible teachers including Jason and John. So professional and encouraging through the theory and practical side of things. Also huge shout out to Michelle and Megan for assisting with any queries and finding the 20 hour work placement. Couldn’t recommend enough!

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I did my tmi and traffic control with Jason this week at Nambour APM he was very good helping and sharing his experience thank you and can't wait to do my final assessment with use thanks for all the equipment and ppe for me to get started with my placement

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Need to get tickets, these guys are awesome for renewals, and upskilling in general, scotty and Jase answer any and all questions I had during the courses, and remember when you doing something like this there's no such thing as stupid questions, and don't be afraid to speak up, they will help in any way they can! Definitely worth it, and will be using Upskills QLD when I need renewal again.

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June 21, 2024

As a student, it's imperative to be taught by industry experts. Fran is interactive which keeps you engaged and engaged students will always learn more. 8 hour training sessions can be very challenging, but not this time. Thanks Fran, great job 👍!

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June 17, 2024

Thanks Fran, had a great time at the course and you made it fun. Presentation and knowledge was excellent!

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June 7, 2024

Excellent, easy to understand

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Kerrie Schott
June 7, 2024

Had a great experience with Fran, nothing was a problem, no question was stupid, and was treated with the greatest respect, which made the learning easy and reatainable, which is hard for some mature students

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Joshua Jay
May 31, 2024

I have just completed my Working at Heights ticket and my Working in Confined Spaces ticket through Upskills QLD. My trainer Jase, was exceptional in outlining the safety aspects and explaining the real-world applications of each component in a comprehensive manner. I would/will strongly recommend their training organisation to anyone 10/10

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May 30, 2024

I thoroughly enjoyed my class with Jase. He was very clear precise and to the point with a bit of humour thrown into the mix. I cannot speak more highly about the way they present there course and would highly recommend them to anyone who would be looking to do the course. Well done guys.

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I did my training with Fran from upskills this week, and over the years she has definitely been the best person I have been trained by. Training was very informative, fun, not stressful and her knowledge was very relevant to my job.

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Richard Doherty
May 27, 2024

Great presentation from a very knowledgeable presenter, highly recommend for all your traffic management needs.

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May 26, 2024
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Marie-Claire Egan
May 25, 2024

I attended the TMI training on Friday. Fran was my trainer and I must admit, as a trainer of trainers myself, she was excellent. Not only does Fran know her stuff, she has the ability to keep people's attention and to get the correct information out there. She does this, not just by training, but by facilitating the training. In other words, she asks the question, and gets people to come up with the answers themselves. I personally always found this to be the best method of training. When people think for themselves they remember it better and this always helps while doing the job. Not only is Fran knowledgeable but she is very personable and approachable. She calls each person by their name and looks them in the eye while speaking to them. She can have a joke and a laugh which is very important, yet more importantly, she gets her message across. I saw men, who have been in the industry for years, admit to Fran that they had learned more in that one day with her than they had in years. Fran is a true asset to your company. Look after her ... Thank you Fran and I look forward to attending your classes again.

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Naomi Goody
May 24, 2024

Fran was great.

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Robert Day
May 24, 2024

Just a small comet on FRAN my trainer who was good communicator and easy understood with her training being to the point and up to date she taught me more knowledge today in my cause TMI renewal

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Shan Gourley
May 23, 2024

Jason was knowledgeable with vast experience and able to answer even the curve ball questions. He was pleasant and a great educator. Would recommend him to any organisation who needs to skill their staff.

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Kane McElligott
May 23, 2024

Frans training was great. Has alot of experience to share and her class was easy to follow

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SUTTY87
May 16, 2024

I recently had to redo my level 1 traffic control ticket and I had Frances jay of upskills as my trainer 👌🏼 She really knew her business and qualifications, opened my eyes to alot of things that were unprofessional and just plain wrong working for other companies in the past and taught me alot of things I'd had no idea about and helped me better understand traffic control as a whole! The class was very well planned, very informative and entertaining to say the least. Highly advise taking the class with such professionals thanks guys.

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Rhonda Dennis
May 15, 2024
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Awesome and informative

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Mick HumptyDoo
May 15, 2024

Great class very informative really great communication and great lecturer- recommended highly

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Svenden
May 7, 2024

Completed Working in Confined Spaces and Safely Working at Heights at Upskills Qld Kippa Ring. Training facility and equipment was excellent and new. Knowledgeable trainer and thorough at making sure the course ware was understood.

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Matthew Saunders
May 1, 2024

Two days spent at Upskills , immediately noticed on arrival that all staff were welcoming, polite and personable. Trainer Scott , second to none ! He has a Happy , positive outlook and energy , funny and extremely knowledgeable. He made the course an extremely positive experience. I will definitely use Upskills again when required because of this .

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Sean Dennis
April 19, 2024

Fran is a great teacher to learn from.

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Lil bit of sinn
April 18, 2024

I had Fran and Jason as instructors for my white card and traffic control. Both of them were very accommodating towards myself not being able to put pen to paper. Definitely recommend this company for people who struggle with paperwork and training in general

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Robert Hearne
April 18, 2024

Easy to follow courses. Well set out. Excellent instructors with real world experience.

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matthew guest
April 17, 2024

Great place to get your traffic control license done, everyone there is super helpful, friendly

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Niall Castle
April 14, 2024

My employer uses this company for staff to be trained in Traffic Control and Traffic Management Implementation. The trainer, Jason, is a mine of knowledge and explains policies and procedures very clearly, ensuring all students complete the courses with the theoretical, administrative and practical skills required.

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Al Hunter
April 14, 2024

Hi, I was very impressed with Upskills and Jason my Trainer. I have over 30 years in the civil construction industry and Jason was able to teach an old dog new tricks. For anyone interested in TC or TMI courses I highly recommend learning from Upskills Qld the correct way. Thanks Jason and Upskills Qld.

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Rikki Starr
April 9, 2024

Their trainer Fran was amazing. She was very friendly and very knowledgeable on all things traffic control. She was able to work with everyone to help them understand the material and I learned a great deal in the short time we had her for. I would definitely recommend upskills and this wonderful trainer to anyone wanting to enter into traffic control.

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Stuart Rofe
April 9, 2024
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Tia Tang
April 8, 2024

Jason was an amazing trainer, very informative and a great communicator

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Evyie kim Spence
April 7, 2024

Scott was absolutely amazing, I went in there thinking I made the wrong choice but he made me realise that I made the right choice. I absolutely loved going and learning about traffic. He always explained it in a way I could understand it and he made it fun which is what you need when sitting in a room all day and we all have good laughs along the way.

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Anthony Law
April 6, 2024

Training was very thorough and clear to understand, the trainer Jason was an amazing teacher.

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Dylan fischer
April 6, 2024

Today was a fantastic day with Fran from upskill she is a fantastic teacher and explained everything in a way you can understand stand it we did our TMI in Bundaberg big shout out to Fran and keep up the hard work

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Colin Coffey
April 6, 2024

I just would like to say a huge thankyou to Fran for her training today and I would recommend Fran for anyone who wants to get training in traffic controll Thanks again Fran for today you really are amazing..yours sincerely Colin coffey

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Ben Fagg
April 6, 2024

100% will be recommending Upskills for anyone wanting to do tc/tmi. Fran is an awesome trainer and is bringing her a game to everyone she trains,

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TROY HARDY
April 5, 2024

Completed my courses at APM Gladstone with Scott from Upskills was a pleasure doing the course with him,Thanks in advance.

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alex sigmund
March 12, 2024

Scotty made the course a lot more interesting thanks to His experience and energy. White Card and TC course. The office staff are friendly and great to deal with too

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Unskilled QLD create courses that are quick, easy and friendly. The instructor was approachable, could communicate on all levels and had time for all students.