Machine Driver Course

To become a machinist in Norway and obtain a machine driver's certificate, you must complete a certified training consisting of both theoretical and practical parts. This is required by the Labour Inspectorate to ensure the safe use of construction machinery such as excavator, wheel loader, dump truck and the like.

Requirements and prerequisites

• Age: You must be at least 18 years of age to obtain a machine driver's certificate, but training can start from the age of 17.
• Machine types: A machinist's certificate is required to operate mass displacement machines with engine power exceeding 15 kW (20.4 hp), including compact loaders and minicloaders.

The training course

The training is structured in four modules:

1. Module 1.1 — Work environment, responsibilities and consequences: Basic HSE knowledge and safety understanding.
2. Module 2.1 — Machine Driver Theory (24 hours): Includes machine types, construction, maintenance, stability and safe use.
3. Module 3.1 — Basic Practical Training (8 hours): Introduction to the specific type of machine you are going to carry.
4. Module 4.1 — Quantity training (minimum 32 hours): Practical driving training under the guidance of an approved sponsor or training company.

Upon completion of training and passing the theoretical and practical test, the machinist's certificate is issued. This proof is valid indefinitely, but it is advisable to keep the skills at par, especially after extended stays from machine driving.

An overview of training modules and certificates of competence they can see here.

Certification numbers SO-087 and SV-236.