Industry-standard qualification for tracked dozers used in bulk earthmoving and precision grading. Prove your competence, work on major projects, and build towards your Blue Card.
Whether you're brand new to tracked plant or need formal certification for dozer experience, the A34 covers operators for earthmoving and grading work.
Never operated tracked plant? The full 7 day course takes you from zero to test-ready with comprehensive training on dozer operation and grading techniques.
Been running dozers but don't have your CPCS card? 3-5 days of training gets you test-ready for the A34 assessment.
Hold cards for excavators or dumpers? Dozer certification adds precision grading and bulk earthmoving to your skillset—typically 3-5 days depending on experience.
Red Card expiring and haven't completed NVQ yet? Re-test to extend it while we help you get that Blue Card sorted.
Working on major projects or in quarries? Formal dozer certification opens doors to motorway construction, major developments, and specialist earthmoving contracts.
Training multiple staff? We accommodate group bookings and work around project timelines where possible.
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This isn't vague promises—here's what actually happens during your training, broken down by theory and practical components.
Training routes tailored to your experience and operational background
We offer a free assessment service to help determine the best training path based on your experience and goals.
Prerequisites for certification
Before taking the CPCS technical tests, you must pass the Health, Safety & Environment test.
Valid for 2 years, this can be completed at our centre during your visit!
Comprehensive evaluation of competence
40 question examination conducted by a CPCS appointed tester.
Hands-on assessment of your dozer operating competence demonstrating safe operation.
CPCS Red Card (Trained Operator)
Professional training with over 20 years of plant operator expertise in Staffordshire
Train on well-maintained tracked dozers representative of machines you'll operate on major projects.
Maximum 2:1 ratio ensures extensive hands-on experience and tailored instruction for this complex machine.
Learn from CPCS trainers with decades of earthmoving and civil engineering experience.
All training and testing conducted at our approved Staffordshire facility.
Purpose-built site with gradients, rough terrain, and grading areas to develop real-world skills.
Regular courses plus bespoke training arranged to match your availability and learning pace.
Competitive pricing for professional certification
Complete certification package
Eligible companies can receive substantial grants to cover training costs. Contact us to check your eligibility and find out how much you could save.
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Common questions about Dozer training
A dozer (bulldozer) is a tracked machine with a front-mounted blade designed primarily for pushing large volumes of earth, clearing land, and rough grading. Dozers excel at moving material horizontally over distance and are used for bulk earthmoving.
A grader (motor grader) is a wheeled machine with a blade positioned between the front and rear axles, designed for precision grading and creating smooth, level surfaces. Graders are used for fine-finishing work like road construction.
Dozers are for heavy pushing and bulk earthwork; graders are for precision finishing and surface preparation.
Yes, but dozer operation is considered one of the more challenging plant categories due to the precision required and the power of the machine. Complete novices can absolutely succeed, but should expect:
We tailor novice training to ensure you build confidence progressively. Many successful dozer operators started with no prior plant experience and went on to have excellent careers in earthmoving.
The CPCS A34 qualification covers tracked dozers of all sizes. Once certified, you can operate:
You'll typically be tested on a medium-sized machine, but the qualification is valid across the full range. Employers appreciate operators who've experienced different sizes during their career.
Some very large mining dozers (50+ tonnes) may require additional site-specific training due to their specialised nature.
Complete beginners (no tracked plant experience): 7 days
Some experience (regular dozer use): 3-5 days test preparation
Experienced Worker Test: 1 day (test only). Dozer training takes longer than many plant categories because precision grading and blade control require significant practice time.
No. Complete beginners are welcome, though dozer operation is challenging. Novices should expect 7 days of intensive training. If you've operated tracked machines or have some dozer experience, training can be shortened to 3-5 days.
Yes. The CPCS Red Card is valid for site work as soon as you receive it. It's recognised across UK construction and civil engineering sites.
However, you must upgrade to Blue Card (via NVQ Level 2) within the two-year validity period.
You need to complete NVQ Level 2 in Plant Operations (Dozer) while working on site. This typically takes 6-12 months and is assessed based on your real-world competence, not another exam.
The process:
We can connect you to NVQ providers and help you explore funding options.
Training covers the main blade types:
You'll learn tilt and angle controls for precision grading. Most training uses universal or semi-U blades as they're most common on UK construction sites.
We'll debrief you on what went wrong—whether it's theory knowledge, blade control technique, or safety awareness. Then we'll discuss the best way to get you retested.
This might be more practice time, additional training, or just booking a retest. The dozer practical test is demanding—precision grading requires skill.
Two years. Within that time, you need to complete your NVQ Level 2 and upgrade to a Blue Card. If you don't, your Red Card expires and you'll need to retest.
No, a CSCS card isn't required for CPCS training. However, if you have one, bring it—it's useful to have for general site access.
Funding options depend on your employment status:
Contact us to check eligibility and discuss options.
Strong demand on major projects. Dozer operators work on:
Pay typically ranges from:
Dozer operators are less common than excavator operators, making it a valuable specialist skill.
Because dozer operation requires skills that take time to develop:
Unlike simpler plant, you can't become test-ready in 2-3 days as a novice. It's a genuinely skilled trade.
A34 (Dozer): Tracked machines primarily for earthmoving with front-mounted blade. Focus on pushing, grading, and land shaping.
A32 (Crawler Tractor): Tracked machines for general agricultural or site work, often with rear attachments like rippers or scarifiers.
Most construction operators need A34 for earthmoving work. A32 is more common in agriculture and specialized site preparation.
Join professional operators with recognised CPCS certification. Expert training available in Staffordshire.
Professional training available throughout the year in Staffordshire. Contact us for course dates.