What Is Forklift Training and Certification, How Do I Get Certified and Why it is Smart to Get It?

Forklifts often go unnoticed, but they’re workhorses at any active job site. Warehouses, construction areas, loading docks—these machines are everywhere! Forklifts help workers move pallets, heavy loads, and equipment. Plus, they do it with ease and incredible speed.

Although forklifts are convenient, they are not toys. They are heavy machinery—several tons each—and can cause significant harm if misused. A single mistake could result in thousands of dollars in damage or even serious injury or death.

Enter forklift certification. Forklift certification shows you know how to operate heavy equipment the right way. You’ll learn how to stay safe, legal, and efficient on the job.

Here’s everything you need to know about forklift certification. We’ll cover what it is, why you need it, and how you can get certified. You’ll also learn the costs involved and how long it’s valid for.

Perhaps you’re hoping to improve as a warehouse worker. Or maybe you’re an employer who wants to ensure your workers are compliant. Regardless of your situation, we’re here to help. By the end of this blog, you’ll have a clear understanding of what steps you need to take.

What Is Forklift Certification?

If someone has forklift certification, it means they’ve passed training. In particular, they’ve completed Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) training. This certification includes OSHA-approved classroom training and hands-on instruction. Evaluation of both written and practical skills is involved. Once you become certified, you’ll receive an official credential.

Many people wonder about forklift licenses. Does one need a license to operate a forklift? OSHA technically doesn’t issue licenses. Employers require workers to become certified through training.

As mentioned above, certification is your official document. It proves you’ve undergone the necessary OSHA training for operators.
Let’s look at why forklift certification matters so much.
Forklift certification is crucial for anyone who wishes to operate one. Not only is it required by law, but it also keeps you safe on the job. Here are a few reasons why becoming certified is important.

Legal Requirements
The United States requires all operators to obtain OSHA certification. Employers who continue to use non-certified operators are breaking the law.

Failing to become certified can cost you in other countries, too. Canada follows the Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety (CCOHS). The UK requires forklift driver training through the Health and Safety Executive (HSE). Australian laws require forklift drivers obtain High Risk Work Licenses.

Avoiding Preventable Forklift Accidents

Every year, there are close to 150 fatal forklift accidents. In the United States, we also have almost 40,000 nonfatal injuries. OSHA states most accidents are caused by tip-overs, collisions, and general misuse. Forklift certification can prevent 70% of these accidents.

Don’t Forklift without Certification Training

Operator training covers how to: properly balance loads and conduct pre-use inspections; operate at safe speeds when turning; drive on uneven floors or ramps; and avoid unsafe practices.

Certification authorizes you to work as a forklift operator. Many companies provide training in-house to support certification. Consider certification essential for accessing these job opportunities.

Becoming certified shows potential employers you’re a capable operator. You’ll stand out from your competition by getting certified.

Forklift Certification Benefits for Employers

Certification doesn’t just benefit workers. Employers have a lot to gain by training and certifying their staff. Here are some of the many benefits of worker certification.

Reduce On-Site Accidents

Fewer accidents mean less money going towards insurance costs. Keeping your employees safe should always be your number one priority. Certification ensures everyone returns home safe at the end of their shift.

Legal Requirements

As mentioned earlier, employers must certify their workers. By providing your staff with proper certification, you won’t get fined. OSHA won’t have any reason to write you up for non-compliance. When there are no fines, that’s money you can save or spend elsewhere.

Increase in Productivity

When workers are safe and trained, job sites run smoother and faster. Preventable accidents often cause chaos on busy work sites. Don’t let downtime slow you down.

Final Thoughts

As you can see, forklift certification benefits everyone involved. Workers can enjoy higher job safety, job security, and employers save on potential fines. Everyone wins when workers are trained properly.

 If you’re ready to get certified, here’s what the process looks like:
Becoming certified to operate a forklift is pretty simple. Most of the time, it only takes 1-2 days!

Here is the process broken down clearly: First, sign up for OSHA-compliant forklift training through a provider of your choice.

 Pick what training program you’d like to attend. There are many providers that offer in-house, online, or third-party training.

Next, complete classroom-style training covering forklift operation basics and safety rules.
After classroom instruction, participate in supervised, hands-on forklift practice. You’ll need to demonstrate practical skills and pass a written test.