How To Get A Forklift License Or Forklift Certification

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Summary

Before starting working as a forklift operator, you need to get a certification or license. There are several ways to do so, but they usually involve taking some training courses at your local vocational school, community college, trade association's education facility, or online.

Forklift certifications

Forklift certifications vary by country and state, so you must contact the organization in your area that deals with handling materials using forklifts. You will be asked to provide identification proving that you are at least 18 years old before being allowed to take the test. The tests are written and graded on site. Some places also have practical testing procedures where you will be required to demonstrate your skills while operating a forklift.

There are several types of forklift certifications, so you will have to invest some time in researching which ones are offered in your area. The tests are usually based on the American Society of Agricultural Engineers' guidelines listed above but may also include local laws concerning forklifts that you need to be aware of.

The certification is required for all operators by law, except those who only use low-speed forklifts with an operating capacity under two tons. These machines do not require a license or certification; however, they must still adhere to ASME B56 standards. Low-speed machine training is available online and at vocational schools like other forklift training materials.

Benefits of Forklift Certifications

There are several benefits associated with getting certified to operate a forklift. Certification guarantees that you have the skills and knowledge necessary to use a forklift safely and legally, and many employers only hire certified workers.

Finding employment as a forklift operator can be difficult without certification or previous experience, so you must invest some time and money into getting your certification. Along with providing legal protection against lawsuits, having this certification will give you more job opportunities open to you.

Getting your forklift license through an online program is becoming increasingly popular as trainees look for ways to save time and money while still obtaining the required qualifications. The certification involves training students on various pieces of material handling equipment; education provided by online programs allows students to study at their own pace in their spare time, even taking tests and completing lessons on mobile devices.

Although there are many benefits associated with certification, you mustn't use this as an excuse to avoid learning everything you can about safely operating a forklift. There are several different types of certification available. The only way to be sure how to get one for your area is by contacting your local ASME or other material handling association. Forklift training courses may cost anywhere from $100 to $1,000 depending on where you live and what kind of course you need. Still, it will be worthwhile towards obtaining employment as a forklift operator.

The OSHA certification standard for forklift training

The OSHA certification standard for forklift training requires classroom and practical training. OSHA requires forklifts operated by OSHA-certified operators who have completed OSHA's 30-hour Operator Training course or OSHA's 8-hour or 24-hour refresher courses. OSHA Forklift Certification is valid for three years. OSHA provides a free online Forklift Safety video located at OSHA Compliance Assistance to assist employers in complying with OSHA safety regulations.

OSHA also requires all drivers of powered industrial trucks, including forklifts, to complete the Agency's 10-hour powered industrial truck operator course within three months of assignment to such duty. The OSH Act of 1977 established this requirement which OSHA's powered industrial truck regulation, OSHA 1910.178, implements its powered industrial truck training requirements section. OSHA 10-Hour Powered Industrial Truck Operator Courses are available in a classroom format or online. OSHA requires all employees who operate forklifts to receive additional instruction when using a forklift for the first time and to attend refresher training every three years. OSHA also suggests that employers provide annual refresher courses at no less than 8 hours annually to all other operators of forklifts and those operators whose training from previous years would not meet OSHA standards if conducted today, including instructor-led classes.

OSHA certification standard for forklift training

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Takeaways

• Forklift certification is required for all operators by law, except those who only use low-speed forklifts with an operating capacity under two tons.

• Finding employment as a forklift operator can be difficult without certification or previous experience, so you must invest some time and money into getting your certification.

• OSHA provides a free online Forklift Safety video located at OSHA Compliance Assistance to assist employers in complying with OSHA safety regulations.