Training requirements for overdimension load pilots

This document summarises the training requirements for pilots of oversize loads, set out in the Land Transport Rule: Vehicle Dimensions and Mass (the Rule).

New Zealand’s roads are designed to cope with vehicles built to some maximum standard sizes (set out in the factsheet 13 series). Vehicles over and above these maximum standard sizes, called overdimension (oversize) vehicles, place extra demands on our road network. They also present a greater risk to other road users unless they meet special operating conditions.

For many of the larger loads, or where the route is restrictive and other road users will require advance warning of the oversize vehicle, one of the special conditions is for load pilot(s) to accompany the oversize vehicle. Load pilots provide advance warning and manage traffic so other road users can safely pass the oversize vehicle.

The Rule requires all pilots to complete a pilot driver’s course by 31 January 2004. The course must be approved by the Land Transport Safety Authority (LTSA) or Land Transport New Zealand.

How to use this document…

There are two classes of pilot, Class 1 and Class 2. The Rule says how many pilots a load must have (based on its size), and whether they should be Class 1 or Class 2 pilots.

Class 1 pilots undergo an intensive training course and are required on very large loads.

Class 2 pilots usually accompany smaller loads, where the level of risk for other road users is lower than with larger loads. They also help Class 1 pilots with larger loads.

Becoming a Class 1 pilot

To complete a Class 1 driver training course you have two options.

Option 1

You need:

• a current driver licence
• a minimum of three years experience piloting with a Class 2 licence, or have assisted a Class 1 pilot on at least 25 trips.

If you meet these criteria and you want to enrol in a Class 1 course, complete the attached Class 1 application form. The Overdimension Permit Issuing Agency (OPIA) will forward your name to the course provider(s) who will contact you with course details.

Option 2

If you completed a certified A or B grade pilot course under the previous pilot system (administered by the New Zealand Heavy Haulage Association and Land Transport New Zealand) then you will be upgraded to Class 1 without further training. You will still need to complete the attached Class 1 pilot application form.

Becoming a Class 2 pilot

To complete a Class 2 driver course you need:

• a current driver licence
• to prove you have good knowledge of the safe piloting practice outlined in the Load Pilot Driver Code.

There is a Class 2 pilot test in the back of the Load Pilot Driver Code (PDF, 1.32 MB). The test is open-book and multi-choice. Sit the test in your own time at your own pace. Send it to the OPIA for marking. If you have passed, the OPIA will send you your Class 2 pilot card.

The Class 2 pilot card is evidence that you have completed a Land Transport New Zealand-approved pilot course.

The Load Pilot Driver Code costs $19.90. This includes having your test assessed and receiving the pilot card. To obtain the Load Pilot Driver Code complete the attached Class 2 application form.

All applications should be posted to the OPIA, Transport Registry Centre, Private Bag, Palmerston North.

Where can I find out more?

For more information contact the OPIA (Transport Registry Centre, Private Bag, Palmerston North or phone 0800 683 774), or call the helpdesk (0800 699 000).

• Load Pilot Driver Code (PDF, 1.32 MB, 52 pages)
• Class 2 load pilot applications form (PDF, 22 KB)
• Class 1 load pilot application form (PDF, 18 KB)

Last updated (partially): 22 December 2006