It's one of the questions we get asked most. The honest answer is that the price of a dumper ticket depends on where you're starting from and how you want to train. Here's what makes the difference, so you know what you're comparing when you get quotes.
1. Novice course or experienced worker test
This is the biggest factor. A novice has little or no experience on the machine, so they need full training before the test. For the NPORS N204 forward tipping dumper that's usually 3 days, and 4 days for the N205 rear tipping dumper.
An experienced worker test (EWT) is for operators who already know the machine and just need the card. It's usually done in a single day: theory test, then practical assessment. Plenty of operators have driven dumpers for years without ever getting the ticket, and the EWT is the quickest, cheapest route for them.
There's also a refresher, for when your card's expiring or you've been off the machine a while. That's half a day to a day to sharpen up, then the re-test.
2. How many people you're booking
Training a group together is almost always better value per person than booking individuals, especially when we come to your site. If you've got several operators who need dumper, excavator or telehandler tickets, it's worth booking them together.
3. On your site or at our centre
We can train on your site with your machines, or at our training centre in Meopham, Kent, where we provide the machine. On-site training saves your team travelling and means they learn on the kit they'll actually use. The centre is ideal if you're booking a single place or your site isn't suitable.
4. Which dumper
We train on the N204 forward tipping dumper (the one used on most construction sites), the N205 rear tipping dumper for heavy haulage, and the N139 forward mini dumper for machines up to one tonne. Rear tipping takes a day longer, which is reflected in the price.
What you get for your money
Pass the theory test and practical assessment and you'll receive an NPORS card for the category. If you don't already hold the NVQ, that's the Trained Operator card (the red card), valid for two years. You'll also need to have passed the health, safety and environment touch screen test in the two years before you apply for the card.
To keep working after two years you'll need to complete the Level 2 NVQ and upgrade to the Competent Operator card (the blue card), which lasts five years. We run the NVQ too, so we can plan the whole route with you.
Get a price for your team
Tell us who needs training, their experience and where you'd like to train, and we'll come back with a clear, fixed quote with no hidden costs. There's no deposit to pay: payment is due 7 days before the course, or on the day.