How to Become a Licensed Forklift Operator

States do not usually license forklift drivers because forklifts, like other industrial vehicles, are driven on private property, not public thoroughfares. However, the United States Department of Labor Occupational Safety and Health Administration developed requirements for employers to follow regarding forklifts and drivers. States may also require additional conditions of employers regarding forklift operations. Employers award forklift operating permits and certificates to an employee who has passed all the employer's training and requirements for forklift drivers.

Instructions

1. Take a training course from an authorized OSHA trainer. OSHA trainers work through vocational and private training schools. Although prior training is not always required to qualify for a forklift job, having the basic skills could help you stand out from other job candidates. Verify trainers through the OSHA authorized training center where the instructor received training. Ask to see the trainer's OSHA authorization card to discover the training center name.

2. Ensure you meet basic qualifications. Federal law requires drivers of industrial vehicles be at least 18 years of age. States may have other basic requirements for operators such as good or corrected vision and being free of convulsive disorders. Contact your state's department of labor to find out more about state requirements.

3. Meet all physical requirements. Although there is not a standard height or weight for forklift operators, an operator must be able to see over the dashboard and controls of the forklift. Operators must also possess good eye, hand and foot coordination for proper operation of the machine. Because machines vary in type and handling, the supervisor training you will verify your physical requirements before certifying you as a forklift operator for a company.

4. Apply as a forklift operator and get trained. OSHA requires employers to be responsible for the training of its forklift operators. Employers train and test you to use their equipment. Employers are required to provide two levels of training, classroom and hands-on training, and then conduct a visual evaluation of the operator's skills before awarding an operator's permit.

Tips & Warnings

• Even though you may have trained or worked as a forklift operator prior to your hiring with your current employer, you still need to complete your employer's forklift training and evaluation before legally operating a forklift.

References

• United States Department of Labor: Occupational Safety & Health Administration; Powered Industrial Truck Standards
• United States Department of Labor: Occupational Safety & Health Administration; Powered Industrial Trucks
• Michigan Department of Energy, Labor and Economic Growth: General Industry Safety Standards, Employers Responsibilities - Operator Selection
• Washington State Department of Labor and Industries: Forklift Training Facts