Driving off-road means facing unique risks that standard driver training doesn't address. This comprehensive course transforms everyday drivers into confident, capable off-road operators who understand not just how to drive, but how to assess risks, protect expensive company vehicles, and make sound decisions when help is hours away.

This course goes far beyond basic 4WD operation. You'll learn critical skills like reading terrain to prevent rollovers, managing vehicle dynamics on side slopes, recovering stuck vehicles safely, and navigating everything from deep mud to rocky tracks, and water crossings to wet sand. They'll understand how to properly inspect and prepare vehicles, manage loads for stability, and use recovery equipment without creating workplace hazards. Most importantly, they'll develop the judgment to know when to proceed and when to find another route—potentially saving your organisation from costly vehicle damage, workplace incidents, and productivity losses.

Protect your investment in vehicles, equipment, and most importantly, people. Drivers who complete this course won't just be safer drivers, they'll be more efficient operators who understand how to minimise wear on vehicles, reduce environmental impact, and complete challenging journeys without incident. 

Does the course contain practical training?

It can do! 

You can use this course as an online-only course - it's comprehensive and you have access for 6 months to digest the information and try the techniques and strategies. You can also purchase extra in-vehicle training that augments this course (i.e. you'll do this course online first, then do the in-vehicle training). Call us and we can organise this with TR Driver Training and cover the options and locations.

Who is this course for?

• Those who drive off-road for work (e.g. agricultural & forestry workers, service engineers, rural trades, etc)

• Tour operators

• Conservation workers and volunteers

• Emergency service drivers

• 4WD enthusiasts and hobbyists (hunters, fishers and campers)

Is this a Unit Standard Course?

The course contains information from the following unit standard requirements:

• US17676: Carry out a pre-start vehicle check on a vehicle or machine, and start and shut down the vehicle or machine

• US17678: Drive a light motor vehicle on unsealed road surfaces

• US17976: Demonstrate knowledge of operating a light 4WD vehicle in an off-road environment

• US17977: Develop a plan for off-road light four-wheel drive (4WD) driving

• US17978: Operate a light 4WD vehicle in an off-road environment

• US18138: Fit and remove vehicle chains

• US20620: Develop a recovery plan and safely recover a light 4WD vehicle

• US20848: Demonstrate knowledge of and skills for driving a light four-wheel drive (4WD) vehicle on-road