Forklifts make life easier for workers in industrial spaces by handling the heavy lifting quickly and efficiently. However, these machines are complex and often dangerous. According to the National Safety Council, more than 20,000 people were injured on the job by forklifts in 2022.
Proper training can mean the difference between staying safe on the job and losing months of work to injury.
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) requires forklift operators to be certified. To get this certification, you need recognized instruction, practical training, and a formal evaluation of your ability to operate the forklift.
Understanding Forklift Training Duration
Forklift training consists of an online or in-person course, an exam, and an evaluation. In general, it can take anywhere from 90 minutes to 3 days to complete your training. If you already have experience, you can complete the course more quickly.
Where you're getting certified and the type of forklift you're training to operate also factor into your timeline. Forklift certification only lasts for three years, after which you must renew it.
Factors Affecting Forklift Training Length
How long you spend on your certification depends on different factors.
Type of Forklift Being Trained On
If you're being certified to operate a standard forklift capable of moving 5,000 pounds, you should complete the training faster. Your training will take longer if you're operating a specialized forklift.
Some tough jobs require a high-capacity forklift capable of lifting 120,000 pounds. Since these machines are larger and often include internal combustion engines, you need more in-depth training to operate and maintain them.
Training Provider and Course Structure
Depending on your training provider, your certification may be on the longer or shorter side. For example, the National Forklift Foundation offers a certification that takes between 45 and 90 minutes. Other organizations provide hands-on training that takes longer.
In-Person vs. Online Training
Getting certified online is also faster than doing it in person, but if you're a forklift novice, it's better to get hands-on experience.
Breakdown of Forklift Training Components
Training will usually come in three phases: classroom learning, hands-on practice, and a final evaluation.
Classroom Instruction
Your forklift training starts in the classroom. Classwork covers the basics of forklift operation, including how to drive and operate its hydraulic lift. You'll also learn safety guidelines, how to load and unload materials, and how to work with hazardous materials. Some classes also cover operating forklifts on a dock if you're loading and unloading ships.
Practical Hands-On Training
After you've covered the instructional material, you will get hands-on training. You practice driving, operating, loading, and unloading in various scenarios. This training helps you get used to factors that could impact your forklift operation. You learn how to navigate in limited visibility, how to account for each load based on its weight, and how to steer.
You will also complete safety drills to prepare for any situation that could arise on the job.
Evaluation and Certification
Once you've completed your training, you'll take a test, which takes about an hour to 90 minutes. Should you pass, you will receive your forklift certification.
Typical Timeframes for Forklift Training Programs
If you're getting newly certified and need to take a class, budget at least a day. You can complete most of these courses in 4-6 hours, but it could take 2-3 days if your class is going in-depth.
Your courses will likely be longer if you need to train on specialized forklifts. Because these forklifts are more complex, you'll spend more time learning how to operate and maintain them. Specialized classes also cover specific situations, such as operating a forklift on rough terrain or working at a shipyard.
When it's time for recertification, you only need to retake your test, which takes about 45 minutes.
Accelerated Forklift Training Options
You can look into a fast-tracked program if you need to be certified quickly. Some companies offer virtual-reality programs that let you experience forklift operations without being onsite. Online programs are typically between two and four hours.
These classes are great if you're a seasoned professional and need to renew your certification. However, online instruction can't mimic the experience you get by actually driving one. If you're new to the field or it's been a while since you last took your certification, a longer, in-person program is better.
Benefits of Completing Forklift Training
Forklifts are dangerous. If you don't know how to operate one safely, you risk injuring yourself and others. Being certified helps you contribute to workplace safety and efficiency.
Getting certified also improves your job prospects. Since most states require forklift operators to be licensed, you can't apply for these jobs without one.
Frequently Asked Questions About Forklift Training Duration
How often do I need to renew my forklift certification?
Every three years.
Can I complete forklift training on evenings or weekends?
Yes. Many certification providers offer courses on weekends and in the evening.
Is prior experience required for forklift training?
No. Anyone who is interested may take a class.
Choosing the Right Organization for Forklift Training
Knowing how long forklift training lasts, you may be tempted to find the fastest, cheapest certification. However, skimping on your forklift training puts you and others at risk, and it can inflate your employer's insurance costs. Find a program with a comprehensive curriculum to fully understand how to safely operate a forklift.
At Safety Pro Resources, we know committing to workplace safety creates a positive work environment and helps you establish yourself as a trusted brand. We understand the ins and outs of safety compliance, including heavy equipment such as forklifts. Let us work with you to train your forklift operators so you know they'll be educated and safe.
