IPAF PAL Cards are valid for 5 years. When it expires, you need to complete a renewal course to remain certified to operate mobile elevating work platforms (MEWPs) such as scissor lifts, cherry pickers and push around platforms. This article explains what the renewal process involves, when to do it, and why it matters.
Why IPAF Licences Expire
IPAF (International Powered Access Federation) sets a five-year validity period on the PAL Card to ensure that operators remain up to date with best practice, regulatory changes, and evolving machine technology. MEWPs and the environments in which they are used change over time, and renewal training is an opportunity to refresh knowledge and reinforce safe working habits.
It also gives employers confidence that their workforce holds current, verified certification, and not a qualification that may reflect outdated standards.
When Should I Renew My IPAF Licence?
The short answer is, before your card expires. Your PAL Card displays its expiry date clearly, so there is no reason to be caught out. We would always recommend booking your IPAF training course at least four to six weeks before the PAL Card expiry to allow time for scheduling and for the new card to arrive.
If your PAL Card has already lapsed, you should not operate a MEWP until you have completed and passed your IPAF training. After all, The Work at Height Regulations 2005 requires work at height is planned, supervised, and carried out by competent individuals using appropriate equipment.
Call Horizon now or email [email protected] to book yourself, or your team member, on to the next available IPAF training course.
Some employers will arrange to have employees stand down from MEWP operation until renewed certification is in place. This of course will impact wages!#
What Does IPAF Renewal Training Involve?
IPAF training takes place at an accredited training centre, or at workplaces for 3 or more people, and covers:
- A theory covering MEWP types, hazards, risk assessment, and relevant legislation
- A multiple-choice theory test
- A practical assessment on the machine categories you are renewing
What Happens After Renewal?
Once you have successfully passed your renewal assessment, your new PAL Card is applied for on your behalf by the training centre. The updated card with your new license expiry date is registered on the IPAF database and typically arrives within a few working days.
Your new card will again be valid for five years from the date you passed your course, not from the expiry date of your previous card. So, it is worth noting that leaving renewal very late does not extend your overall certification period.
Can I Check My PAL Card Status Online?
Yes. IPAF provides a PAL Card Check facility online and via a dedicated app. Employers, site managers, and MEWP hirers can use this to verify that a PAL Card is valid and check which machine categories the holder is certified for. This means that in many cases a physical card is not strictly necessary on site, but carrying your card remains good practice.
How Much Does IPAF Renewal Cost?
Costs vary depending on the number of categories you need. But Horizon Platforms offer bundles for multiple categories which tend to be more cost effective. Contact us for current IPAF training pricing and group booking rates.
Book Your IPAF Renewal with Horizon Platforms. Stay Certified, Stay Safe
As an IPAF-accredited training centre, Horizon Platforms delivers renewal courses with flexible scheduling and a range of machine categories available.
Renewing your IPAF PAL Card on time is one of the simplest ways to protect yourself, your colleagues, and your employer. It takes a single day, and the process is straightforward when you train with a reliable, accredited centre.
Don’t wait until your card has lapsed contact us to check availability and book your IPAF training today.