Becoming a Certified Forklift Driver: A Complete Guide
Written by Staff Writer
Accidents can happen anywhere, even at the most organized worksites. From minor fender benders to serious injuries, incidents involving forklifts underscore the critical need for proper operator training. Our online courses provide a convenient way to learn best practices for forklift operations, equipping you with the technical know-how to safely maneuver heavy loads and protect everyone on the jobsite.
Training programs cover essential topics, such as daily inspections, safe driving techniques and OSHA regulations for Class I–VII forklifts. You’ll discover how to recognize hazards, maintain stability while turning, and prevent tip-overs — vital steps toward meeting federal requirements and reducing workplace risk.
Read on to explore what forklift driver certification entails, why it matters for legal compliance, and how you can earn the credentials you need to operate forklifts with confidence.
About the Forklift Certification Course
Our 100% online forklift driver certification course complies with OSHA’s standards for formal training, covering everything from forklift fundamentals to safe operation. You can complete the course modules at your own pace in about two hours.
Course Highlights
Format: 100% online
Duration: Approximately two hours
Designed for: Class I – Class VII forklift operators
Certification: Immediately downloadable certificate upon completion; durable wallet card arrives by mail
Validity: Certification remains valid for three years
In addition to online training, OSHA requires an in-person performance evaluation. That means once you pass the final exam, your employer will demonstrate safe usage techniques on the specific equipment you’ll operate, and then conduct an official assessment. Successfully completing both steps will make you a certified forklift driver.
Who Needs Forklift Training?
Any worker who operates a forklift or powered industrial truck in general industry or construction must be trained and certified per OSHA rules. By law, you must be at least 18 years old to drive a forklift. No state driver's license is required by OSHA standards, though some employers may have additional requirements.
This training does not apply to:
Agriculture workers
Compressed air or nonflammable gas-powered industrial trucks
Farm vehicles
Vehicles primarily used for earth moving or over-the-road hauling
Benefits of Online Forklift Certification
Convenient and Flexible: Study whenever and wherever you have an internet connection, without the need to travel or miss work.
Engaging Course Content: Learn through interactive modules, audio narration and quizzes.
Guaranteed to Pass: You have unlimited attempts to pass each quiz and the final exam, removing the pressure of a single test.
Industry-Recognized: Your certificate is valid in all states and territories under OSHA jurisdiction.
Renewable: After three years, refresher training ensures your knowledge remains up to date.
Course Requirements and Testing
Earning your forklift certificate involves completing each of the six lessons, passing short quizzes after each module, and passing a comprehensive final exam. You must score at least 80% on each quiz and 70% on the final exam. If you don’t pass, you can retake the quizzes and exam as needed.
Once you complete the online component, OSHA mandates in-person practical training. Your employer or a qualified trainer will walk you through critical tasks on the actual forklifts in your workplace, including:
Conducting forklift inspections
Picking up loads safely
Traveling with and without loads
Setting loads down
Parking and storing the forklift
Fueling or recharging batteries
After your successful performance evaluation, you will be officially forklift certified.
Course Outline
Introduction to Powered Industrial Trucks
Overview of forklift classifications, their basic functions and the general principles of safe operation.
Operating a Powered Industrial Truck
Proper driving techniques, maneuvering and hazard awareness to keep you and your coworkers safe.
Powered Industrial Truck Hazards
Recognition of common workplace hazards, including tip-overs and collisions, and how to mitigate risk.
Inspections and Maintenance
Importance of pre-operation inspections, preventative maintenance and prompt reporting of mechanical issues.
Related Regulations and Resources
Exploration of relevant OSHA standards, plus guidance on other government resources that support worker safety.
Forklifts
A closer look at each forklift class (I–VII) and their specific applications, safety features and handling differences.
FAQs About Forklift Driver Certification
What is forklift certification?
It’s OSHA’s required proof that you’ve completed formal instruction, practical training and a performance evaluation for safe forklift operation.
Is the online course OSHA accepted?
Yes. Our training satisfies formal instruction requirements under 29 CFR 1910.178 and 29 CFR 1926.602(d).
Can I use this certification in any state?
Yes. Our forklift certification is valid nationwide, although employers may have unique site-specific policies.
How long does certification last?
Certification stays valid for three years. You’ll need refresher training after that period or if your employer observes unsafe operation, you’re involved in an accident or near miss, or a new type of forklift is introduced.
What steps are involved?
Complete the Online Course: Pass all modules and the final exam.
Hands-On Training: Train on the equipment at your worksite.
Performance Evaluation: Prove your skills in front of a qualified trainer.
Common Accidents and How Training Helps Prevent Them
Forklift accidents remain a serious concern in industrial and warehouse environments. According to OSHA data, forklift-related incidents can result in more than 30,000 injuries and dozens of fatalities each year. Many of these accidents stem from inadequate training, rushed operations and improper maintenance protocols.
One of the most common mishaps is a tip-over, often caused by operators failing to balance loads properly or making sharp turns at excessive speeds. Collisions with pedestrians or stationary structures are another frequent hazard, particularly in congested areas where visibility is limited. Falling loads pose additional risks, especially when forks are raised too high or loads are stacked incorrectly.
A comprehensive, OSHA-compliant training program gives operators the knowledge and skills to navigate these hazards. Lessons on forklift stability, load handling and daily inspections help operators detect mechanical problems before they become costly or dangerous. Refresher training is also important, as workplace conditions can shift over time and employees may need updated guidance on new equipment or procedures.
By ensuring forklift drivers are well-trained, employers establish a culture of safety that reduces liability, prevents operational disruptions and helps protect both personnel and property. When operators understand the impact of every maneuver and consistently adhere to best practices, worksites can significantly reduce their risk of accidents and maintain a more productive environment.
Enroll and Elevate Your Workplace Safety
Ready to meet OSHA’s requirements and ensure a safer work environment? Enroll in our online forklift driver certification course today. You’ll gain the knowledge and confidence to operate forklifts responsibly, protect your team from potential accidents and maintain compliance with federal regulations.
Learn more about our flexible, self-paced program and take your first step toward becoming a certified forklift driver. Sign up now and make workplace safety a priority.