How To Get A Forklift Certification

Obtaining a forklift certification is a relatively quick way to add a valuable skill to your resume or expand your opportunities at work. Many programs you can complete from the comfort of your home via online safety training and testing. Read this guide to learn how to get a forklift certification to give yourself a step up in the job market.

Learning to drive

The first step to obtaining a forklift certification is learning to drive a forklift. Classes are often offered at vocational schools, community colleges and trucking schools. Your employer may also provide training. There is no requirement for how you learn to drive a forklift, as long as you can drive one. Part of earning a certification is passing a driving evaluation, so if you need training, take care of that before pursuing certification.

Take an online training course

Once you decide you are ready to pursue your certification, find a school that provides the required safety training and testing. This is as easy as doing a web search for "forklift certification." Many online schools offer an inexpensive certification package that includes the required safety course, which you can take from home or any computer with an internet connection. The course only takes about one to two hours to complete.

Take an online test and print proof of completion

After you complete the online safety course, you must take an online test. To pass, you need to answer at least 70 percent of the questions correctly. If you pass the test, you can print your certificate immediately.

Take driving evaluation and wait for wallet card

Finally, your employer should give you a driving evaluation. This is the time for you to demonstrate your ability to safely operate equipment. In addition, before moving into a position that requires certification, you may need to present proof with the wallet card supporting your certification. You can expect your wallet card to arrive in the mail within about a week from the time you pass your test. Your certification requires renewal every 3 years and consists of retaking the safety course and test.

Obtaining certification to drive a forklift is an excellent way to increase your value to an employer. Once you know how to drive one, the rest of the process is easily completed online in less than one day. Give yourself an edge over other applicants by making sure you are forklift certified.

Give yourself an edge over other applicants by making sure you are forklift certified