What is a UDT licence and how to obtain one?

The UDT licence is a certificate of admission to technical devices issued by authorised bodies such as Urząd Dozoru Technicznego (UDT) in Poland. This certificate is required to work with equipment requiring technical supervision. The UDT licence confirms the worker’s qualifications and allows the operation of specialised machinery such as cranes, forklifts, hoists, lifts and other devices.

Obtaining a UDT licence is necessary for both worker safety and compliance with current legislation. In this article, we will explain how to obtain a UDT licence, what steps you need to go through and what documents are required.

Which devices require a UDT certificate?

A UDT certificate is required to operate the following technical devices:

• Forklifts.
• Tower cranes and truck cranes.
• Hoists and platforms.
• Lifts and material handling equipment.
• Stationary and mobile compressor units.

Each of the devices requires a separate category of authorisation, which is specified when taking the exam.

Steps in obtaining a UDT licence

To obtain an UDT licence, there are several steps to follow:

1. Enrolling for training

The first step is to choose an accredited training centre that trains technicians to operate and maintain technical devices. The training programme includes:

Theoretical training: studying the design of the equipment, rules of operation and safety.

Practical training: operating the device under the guidance of an instructor.

2. Passing the UDT examination

After completing the training, an examination organised by the Urząd Dozoru Technicznego is held. It consists of two parts:

Theoretical part: a test of knowledge of the device and principles of operation of the equipment, as well as the regulatory requirements.

Practical part: demonstration of skills in operating the device or performing maintenance procedures.

The examination verifies the candidate’s readiness to operate the equipment safely.

3. Obtaining a certificate

If the exam is passed successfully, a UDT certificate is issued, which confirms the right to operate a specific type of equipment. It is usually valid for several years, after which renewal is required.

Documents required to obtain a licence

The following documents will be required to take the training and pass the exam:

1. Passport or identity card.
2. A medical certificate of fitness to work with machinery.
3. An application form to take the exam.

Why is it important to have a UDT licence?

Compliance with the law: having a road transport operator’s licence ensures that machinery is operated in accordance with legal requirements.

Safety: a trained professional reduces the risk of accidents and incidents.

Professional development: having a road transport operator’s licence opens up additional career opportunities.

Who can get a UDT licence?

1.Age: The candidate must be above 18 years of age.

2.Medical fitness: It is mandatory to provide a medical certificate confirming that the state of health allows you to work with machinery. This is usually a certificate from a doctor who specialises in medical examinations for working professions.

3.Education and qualifications: No special education is required, but you must be trained at an accredited centre that provides training in operating or maintaining specific equipment.

4.Successful completion of an examination: The candidate must pass a theoretical and practical examination organised by the body Urząd Dozoru Technicznego.

The theory covers knowledge of the rules of operation, safety and design of the equipment.

Practice demonstrates skills in operating or maintaining the equipment.

5.Citizenship or work permit:

Having a country’s citizenship or work permit may be required in some cases.

For which professions is it important?

UDT licences are in demand for professionals working in the following areas:

• Warehouse logistics (forklift operators).
• Construction (operators of cranes, hoists).
• Industry (maintenance of compressors, lifts, other stationary installations).
• Transport (working with hydraulic platforms).

Obtaining UDT rights opens up additional career opportunities and makes a specialist more in demand on the labour market.

Where to get training?

Training for UDT rights is offered by accredited centres, a list of which can be found on the official website of the UDT body. Choosing a reliable educational institution is a key step to successfully passing the exam.

We recommend contacting professional training organisations for more details and to enrol for courses.

Obtaining a UDT licence is a mandatory step for professionals working with machinery. This certificate not only ensures compliance with the law, but also increases your value as a professional on the labour market.