Before you get behind the wheel of a forklift, there’s an important box you need to check: getting your forklift certification. But certification isn’t just a box to tick – it’s an essential part of staying safe on the job and complying with industry standards. Below, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about becoming forklift certified so that you can take the next step toward advancing your career. Let’s dive in!
What is Forklift Certification?
A forklift certification is an official recognition of a person’s ability to safely operate a forklift. It demonstrates that you have the skills, practice, and knowledge necessary to use forklifts properly.
Obtaining a forklift certification is a process that involves training and testing designed to ensure operators can handle forklifts in accordance with standards 1910.178(I) and 1926.602(d) from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA).
According to OSHA standard 1910.178, all operators who may use a forklift are required to be certified. As a result, all operators must progress through proper training, formal instruction, and a performance evaluation before they can safely use this piece of equipment.
With the right forklift certification education and training, you can learn to do things like:
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Naming and identifying appropriate uses for different types of forklifts
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Describing different operational procedures for forklifts, like load handling
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Preventing accidents by upholding forklift safety procedures
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Identifying and listing OSHA or other government resources that support safety while using forklifts and other heavy machinery
Why Getting Forklift Certified is Important
There’s a lot more than safety at stake when it comes to getting forklift certified, meaning there are plenty of reasons to get trained beyond avoiding potential accidents or injuries. Some of the main benefits of getting forklift certified include:
Compliance
It goes without saying that complying with OSHA and other workplace requirements is essential. Doing so helps your business or organization avoid penalties and keeps everyone safe on the job. Plus, operating a forklift without a certification is not only risky but illegal.
Job Opportunities
Many employers within industries like manufacturing, construction, and agriculture require workers to be forklift certified so they can safely use machinery when required. Without a certification, your job opportunities in certain fields might be limited. Likewise, you might have a hard time competing with other certified candidates.
Confidence
With thorough training and plenty of opportunities to practice your skills, you’ll feel more confident and competent in your role as a forklift operator. And what’s not to love about that?
So, whether you’re new to using heavy machinery or not, investing the time and effort it takes to get a forklift certification is definitely worth it.
6 Steps to Obtain Forklift Certification
While getting a forklift certification can take some time, it’s a relatively simple and straightforward process. Here’s how to become forklift certified in six easy steps.
1. Select the Appropriate Forklift Certification Type
Not all forklift certifications are made equal. OSHA recognizes seven different classes of powered industrial trucks (forklifts), each with a different use:
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Class I: Electric motor rider trucks
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Class II: Electric motor narrow aisle trucks
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Class III: Electric motor hand trucks or hand/rider trucks
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Class IV: Internal combustion engine trucks (solid/cushion tires)
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Class V: Internal combustion engine trucks (pneumatic tires)
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Class VI: Electric and internal combustion engine tractors
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Class VII: Rough terrain forklift trucks
As you choose a certification training program, make sure you select one that’s suited to the vehicle class that you’ll be working with.
2. Enroll in an Accredited Forklift Training Program
To get your certification, you’ll need to enroll in an OSHA-approved training program.
If your employer requires you to be forklift certified, they may already have connections with an approved training provider. If not, you can find additional program options through nearby vocational schools and, in some cases, local community colleges.
Make sure you choose a program with a strong reputation and plenty of experience to ensure you get a well-rounded education that covers practical skills and theoretical knowledge.
Clarification: Note that while some training programs are offered online, OSHA regulations mandate that all forklift certification programs include hands-on practical training and an evaluation under the supervision of a qualified trainer. Fully online programs without practical components will not meet OSHA’s requirements.
3. Attend Comprehensive Forklift Training Sessions
Depending on the structure of your training program, you might be asked to attend hands-on practice sessions or demonstrations as well as typical classroom instruction sessions. A mix of both is ideal, as OSHA regulations require forklift operators to spend time on practical skills and pass a performance test before certification is acquired.
Fully online and remote courses may be completed at your own pace. In other cases, you might be given a module or lesson each day or week until you complete the program.
4. Pass the Required Forklift Certification Exam
With all of your training completed, it’s time to ace your forklift certification exam. This is a written test that covers essential topics from your training, like forklift operations, safety procedures, and load handling.
Make sure you review all of the material you covered in your training before the big day, and if possible, get some hands-on practice under the supervision of a qualified forklift operator.
5. Complete Practical Forklift Training and Evaluation
After passing the written exam, you’ll be asked to demonstrate your ability to safely operate a forklift in a hands-on evaluation. Skills such as safely maneuvering the vehicle, handling loads, and following certain safety procedures will be assessed during the exam.
6. Receive Your Forklift Certification and License
Finally, once you’ve passed the written exam and practical evaluation, you’re ready to receive your forklift certification! In some cases, the certification may be accompanied by a license. Regardless, though, it stands as your official proof of qualification.
Clarification: Although the terms "license" and "certification" are often used interchangeably, OSHA officially certifies operators rather than issuing a license. Your certification serves as your qualification to operate forklifts safely within a professional setting.
Keep in mind, however, that your certification will need to be renewed – typically every three years.
How to Choose the Right Certification Program
As you select your forklift certification program, keep essential factors like these in mind to ensure you set yourself up for success:
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OSHA Approval: Double-check that your program is OSHA-approved and complies with all standards applicable to your job.
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Reputation: Look for programs that have positive reputations and favorable reviews from other students.
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Instructor Qualifications: Take a look into the qualifications and experience of the instructor(s) offering the program. Are they certified themselves?
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Coverage of Topics: Does the program in question offer certification for the type of forklift you need to operate? Does it cover both theoretical and practical components of forklift operation?
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What does “forklift certified” mean?
Being “forklift certified” means that you have completed an OSHA-approved forklift training program complete with theoretical instruction, practical skills training, and hands-on experience. A certification is an official acknowledgment of a person’s qualification to handle a forklift.
Do you need a license to drive a forklift?
While you may not need a specific driver’s license to operate a forklift, you do need an official certification. Your forklift certification acts as your license for operating these vehicles within professional settings.
How old do you have to be to be forklift certified?
You need to be 18 or older to become forklift-certified. This minimum age requirement aligns with most other workplace standards and safety regulations.
How long do forklift certifications last?
Most forklift certifications last for three years. After this period ends, you’ll need to get recertified to ensure that your skills are up to date and that you can still meet the basic requirements to safely operate a forklift.