You might have watched a crew lift steel beams into place and thought, “Looks easy enough—just hook it up and go.”
But rigging is a lot more complex. There are rules, licence classes, safety checks, and step-by-step training before you’re even allowed near those lifts.
So how long does it actually take to become a fully qualified rigger? Here, the team at Construction Training International break it down.
What does being a fully qualified rigger mean?
In Australia, “rigger” isn’t just a nickname, it’s a formal role recognised under High-Risk Work (HRW) licensing. A fully qualified rigger is someone who has completed nationally recognised training, passed their assessment, and been issued the correct HRW licence by WorkSafe (in Victoria) or the equivalent authority in their state.
Riggers handle setting up cranes, lifting gear and scaffolding systems, and safely directing loads. Depending on the class of licence, this can range from straightforward jobs like installing hoists through to complex lifts using multi-crane setups.
The different rigging licence classes
The time it takes to qualify depends on the level of rigging licence you’re aiming for. There are three nationally recognised classes:
- Basic rigging (RB): Covers dogging work plus simple rigging tasks like hoists and safety nets.
- Intermediate rigging (RI): Adds more complex gear such as cranes, conveyors, and dual-lift operations.
- Advanced rigging (RA): The top tier, covering gin poles, flying foxes and specialised lifting equipment.
Each stage requires you to already hold the class below it. That means you can’t skip straight to advanced. Progression is step by step, with extra training and assessment at each level.
How long does the training take?
Here’s a typical breakdown when you enrol with CTI or another Registered Training Organisation:
- Dogging course: 5 days
- Basic rigging (RB): 5 days
- Intermediate rigging (RI): 4 days
- Advanced rigging (RA): 4 days
Altogether, that’s 18 days of structured training over four separate courses. Most people complete these courses over several months, building on-site experience in between levels before moving up to the next stage.
Beyond the classroom: experience matters
Becoming a fully qualified rigger isn’t just about clocking up training hours. You’ll also need:
- On-site logbook experience signed off by a qualified supervisor.
- Confidence handling loads under different conditions.
- A final assessment with a licensed assessor to demonstrate your competency.
This means your personal timeline might stretch beyond the classroom schedule. For some, it’s a straight path of a few months. For others (especially if you’re balancing work and training) it may take closer to a year to progress from dogging through to advanced rigging.
Why choose CTI for your rigging training?
At CTI, we know that flexibility is key. We offer purpose-built training sites with simulated lifts, workplace-based options if you’re already employed, and even accommodation for out-of-towners. Our trainers are industry professionals who’ll walk you through each stage, making sure you’re job-ready when you step onto site.
We’ve helped thousands of Victorians earn their high-risk licences and build rewarding careers in construction. With our guidance, becoming a fully qualified rigger is a clear, achievable pathway.
So, how long does it take to become a fully qualified rigger? With the required courses and assessments, the structured training time is about 18 days in total. Add in on-the-job practice and licence approvals, and you’re realistically looking at a few months to a year, depending on how quickly you progress.
If you’re ready to start the journey, CTI can help you move from dogging through to advanced rigging with confidence. Get in touch with our team today and take the first step toward a career that’s hands-on, in-demand, and always high-stakes.
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to become a fully qualified rigger?
It usually takes 18 days of structured training: 5 days of dogging, 5 days of basic rigging, 4 days of intermediate, and 4 days of advanced. On top of that, you’ll need supervised workplace experience and time to book and sit your licence assessments. Many people complete all levels within a year, but the exact timeframe depends on how quickly you gain site experience and progress through the licences.
Do I need a dogging licence before rigging training?
Yes. You cannot start a rigging course without holding a valid dogging High-Risk Work Licence. This is because rigging work builds directly on dogging skills, such as safely slinging loads, selecting lifting equipment, and directing crane operators. Once you’ve got your dogging licence, you can enrol in basic rigging and move up from there.
Can I go straight to advanced rigging?
No. Rigging is designed as a staged qualification. You must hold the class below before progressing: that means dogging before basic, basic before intermediate, and intermediate before advanced. This staged approach ensures you have the skills to safely handle increasingly complex lifts, like working with multiple cranes or specialised structures.
Is rigging training only classroom-based?
Not at all. Each CTI rigging course blends classroom theory with hands-on practice in a controlled training yard. You’ll also complete a workplace logbook where a qualified supervisor signs off your experience on live sites. This mix of theory, simulation, and real-world practice makes sure you’re ready for the final licence assessment and confident on the job.
How do I get my High-Risk Work Licence after training?
After finishing your course and demonstrating competency in your practical and theory assessment, you’ll receive a Statement of Attainment from CTI. With that, you apply directly to WorkSafe Victoria (or your state authority) for the High-Risk Work Licence. The licence application includes a fee, ID check, and photo capture, and once approved, you’ll receive a plastic card that proves your authority to work as a rigger.
