If you’re planning to work in a warehouse, construction yard, logistics hub, distribution center—basically anywhere heavy stuff needs lifting—you’ll eventually hear one line over and over:

“You can’t operate that forklift unless you’re certified.”

And honestly? OSHA isn’t joking about this. Forklifts are incredibly useful, but they’re also one of the top causes of workplace injuries every year. So getting certified isn’t just about landing a better job—it’s about keeping yourself and everyone around you safe.

The good news? Getting forklift certified in 2026 is easier than it sounds, especially once you understand what OSHA actually requires. I’ve gone through the training myself, I’ve worked with operators for years, and let me tell you—once you break it down, the whole thing is pretty straightforward.

So let’s walk through the real, step-by-step process on how to get certified the OSHA-approved way in 2026.

Why Forklift Certification Matters 

Warehouses are upgrading. Automation is becoming normal. Forklifts are getting smarter. But OSHA rules? They’re still very clear:
No certification = no operation.

Companies take this seriously because:

• OSHA fines can hit $15,000+ per violation
• Liability falls on the employer AND the worker
• Insurance requires documented training
• A certified operator is simply safer and more efficient

If you want to be hired fast in a warehouse or logistics job, forklift certification puts you at the top of the list. Employers love applicants who already have training—saves them time and money.

And honestly, once you understand forklift physics and safe operation, the job becomes a lot less stressful.

What OSHA Requires 

Let’s clear up a common myth right away: 

There is no “forklift license.” What OSHA requires is forklift certification + employer authorization.

OSHA’s rule lives inside 29 CFR 1910.178, and the requirements haven’t dramatically changed for 2026, but enforcement has gotten stricter. Here’s what OSHA expects every operator to complete:

✔ 1. Formal Instruction

This can be:

• Classroom training
• Online learning for theory
• Videos, lectures, written materials

Topics include load stability, truck components, walking surfaces, traveling rules, and hazard recognition.

✔ 2. Practical (Hands-On) Training

This is done in person with real forklifts.
You learn how to:

• Start, stop, and park safely
• Lift and lower loads
• Navigate aisles
• Perform inspections
• Handle slopes and uneven surfaces

✔ 3. Evaluation by a Qualified Trainer

Your evaluator watches you operate the forklift and decides if you’re competent.

If you complete all three parts, you’re considered OSHA-certified.

But one more thing:

✔ Employer Authorization

Even after certification, your employer must train you on their equipment and their worksite. Without this authorization, you’re still not legally allowed to operate.

Two Ways to Take the Forklift Training

Forklift safety training isn’t just a box to tick—it’s a must whether you're running a business or trying to get hired as an operator. If you need certification, you’ve basically got two main ways to get trained, and each one has its perks depending on your situation.

1. In-Person Forklift Training (Hands-On & Highly Recommended)

The most effective (and honestly, the most confidence-boosting) way to learn to drive a forklift is by taking a face-to-face training course. These classes are usually held at training centers, trade schools, or private companies near you.

Here’s what in-person training typically includes:

• Classroom lessons on safety rules and operating principles
• Hands-on practice driving a forklift
• A practical skills test
• Evaluation and sign-off by a certified instructor

Most courses run for 1–2 days, depending on the type of forklift and how in-depth the program is.

Tip: On this website, we’ve made things easier for you — there’s a state-by-state directory of forklift training schools. Just choose your location and check the list of centers offering certification.

2. Online Forklift Certification (Convenient but Limited)

Online training is the second option, and it’s become pretty popular—especially for companies that don’t want to send workers off-site.

Online forklift courses usually include:

• Theoretical lessons
• Safety modules
• Knowledge testing

What it does NOT include is hands-on driving practice. OSHA requires a practical evaluation for full certification, so an online course only covers the classroom portion. You will still need a qualified evaluator (usually your employer or trainer) to assess your actual driving skills.

Still, online training is great if you want:

• A quick and flexible way to complete the classroom part
• A cost-effective option
• Training your workers without scheduling challenges

There are many legit providers out there—ask around your workplace or check reviews to find one that fits your needs.

What You Need to Be/Have in Order to Get Accepted in the Training

Age Requirements

To get started with forklift certification, you gotta be at least a certain age. Most places ask that you're 18 years old or over. This is pretty standard across the board, whether you're looking to work in a warehouse, on a construction site, or anywhere else a forklift is needed.

Educational and Training Prerequisites

Now, you don't need to have a pile of degrees to drive a forklift, but you do need to understand the basics of reading, writing, and some math.

This helps you follow safety instructions and keep track of inventory if that's part of your job. Before you jump into forklift training, you might not need any special education or training, but being comfortable with these basics is key.

Health and Physical Requirements

Operating a forklift isn't just about sitting and driving. You need to be in good physical shape to handle the demands of the job. This means you should be able to move around comfortably, have good hand-eye coordination, and not have any major health issues that could make driving unsafe.

Some places might ask you to pass a physical test, just to make sure you can do things like lift a bit of weight, reach controls easily, and generally move around without trouble.

Getting certified to drive a forklift is about making sure you're old enough, have a basic understanding of reading and math, and are physically up to the task. If you check these boxes, you're on your way to getting that certification and starting a new job path. 

Here's a Video That Explains Everything You Need To Undergo Forklift Certification

Before you go on, I would like to invite you to spend a little time reading these important articles, CHECK IT OUT:

• I Was Injured at Work Driving Forklift, Is My Employer Liable?
• If You Habe a Valid Forklift Certification, Can You Still It to Work in Another Company in Other State?
• Tips on Choosing the Best Forklift Training School
• Is Online Forklift Training the Right One for You?
• When to Take Forklift Retraining/Refresher Course
• How to Become Forklift Certified?

If you are an Employer, here are some advices for your, READ these:

• Will the Employer Train the Operator to Drive Forklifts
• How Do You Find Cost Effective Training for Your Workers
• 3 Ways to Receive Forklift Train-the-Trainer Course
  
• Requirements of Forklift Safety Training 

Where to Get Certified?

If you’re wondering how to get forklift certified, you’ve actually got a few solid options.

Option 1:

Sign up for a forklift training course at a private training school. This is the most common route, and it’s perfect if you’re starting from zero and want proper, hands-on guidance.

Option 2:

If you’re already employed, your company might handle the certification for you. Many employers sponsor the training because, honestly, OSHA requires them to make sure their operators are properly trained anyway.

Option 3:

Some community colleges offer forklift training, and every now and then, they even run free or low-cost classes—worth checking out if you’re trying to save some cash.

Now, if you’re totally new to forklifts, your best bet is still a training school. They walk you through everything step-by-step, no pressure. Even if you’re already experienced but want to brush up on skills or get recertified, a training school still works great.

And if you’re an employer or supervisor looking to train your team, you can also bring a trainer directly to your workplace. Many training schools offer on-site training, which is super convenient because your workers get trained on the actual equipment they use every day. It’s honestly one of the best setups.

Choosing the Right Training Provider

When you’re trying to get your forklift license, choosing the right training provider makes a huge difference. Here’s a quick and easy rundown of what you should look for:

Accreditation

First off, make sure the training center is legit and accredited. That means they’re officially approved to teach forklift operators and follow OSHA standards. Most schools list their accreditation right on their website, but if not, just ask. Training with an accredited provider guarantees you’re learning the right stuff the right way.

Costs and Financing

Forklift training isn’t free, but it is an investment that pays off quickly. Prices can vary a lot, so compare a few schools before signing up. Some offer payment plans, discounts, or financial help—especially if your employer is willing to sponsor you. Doesn’t hurt to ask, right?

Location and Schedule

Be realistic about the commute and class times. If the school is too far or the schedule doesn’t match your work or personal life, you’ll just make things harder on yourself. Look for a training center that’s easy to get to and has flexible class hours so you can attend without stressing out your daily routine.

Finding the right training provider is really about balancing these three things—quality training, affordable cost, and a schedule that actually works for you. Get those lined up, and you’re set for a smooth certification journey.

Choose the State Where You Want to Take the Forklift Certification

If your state has its own State Plan, the forklift certification requirement may be different from that of OSHA, check with your state to determine the specifics and requirements.

Steps You Need to Take When Applying for a Forklift Certification 

To begin the process of certification, follow these six simple steps:

Step 1: Assess Yourself What Forklift You Want to Get Trained On

If you are a beginner you may be wondering why self-assessment is important. At this stage, you must choose what type of forklift truck you want to operate as OSHA says that the training course should be matched to the type of truck (and by “type,” OSHA is referring to the differences - a sit-down rider truck vs. a stand-up truck, or an order-picker vs. a counterbalance.)

After you have thoroughly assessed yourself and prepared what you need, find a training school where you want to take the course. On this website, you will also find a directory of training schools, just click the location/country where you are.

If you are currently employed, your employer must provide you with the training you need. It is the company's obligation to supply that for you.

Step 2: Enroll in a Forklift Certification Course

The role of the forklift training school is to impart knowledge based on the OSHA standard.

You have two (2) options to attend the course – either online or in-person.

If you choose to take the first one, you may find a private training institution on the internet that conducts online certification. We discourage you not to go this route. This training method does not comply with OSHA regulations, therefore, you cannot be assured that you can become forklift certified.

The best option for taking the forklift training is in-person. It only takes a day or two to complete the course.

And if you're too busy during the weekdays, you can take the training on weekends which is much more convenient.

Step 3: Attend the Classroom Lectures

This part of the course usually lasts for six (6) hours and the topics to be discussed focus mostly on OSHA regulations, general safety and health, forklift safe driving, and many other specialized subjects. At this part, trainees will learn helpful techniques in preventing workplace accidents that could lead to lost time injury (LTI), property damage, and injury.

Step 4: Pass the Written Examination

At the end of the 6-hour classroom lectures, trainees will be given a questionnaire to answer. Usually, the passing grade is 75% but it may differ depending on the training standard of the school.

The written test shall ensure that students have received enough knowledge from the lectures.

Step 5: Perform Hand-On Forklift Operation

When you completed the classroom lectures and passed the test, you're now ready to receive the hands-on training.

During the practical training, the trainer will demonstrate the actual forklift operation and the student will do the exercises. The purpose is to do the job in a safe and efficient approach.

The trainer will assign you to accomplish sets of duties which include pre-operational inspection, loading, lifting of materials at the elevated platform and more complex tasks such as maneuvering in tight spaces, lifting of heavy load, traveling on an incline and many others.

The practical training should not be taken lightly. This is where the trainer will rate your performance. Make him happy with your performance then you will be assured of passing the course.

Step 6: Evaluation

The trainer will make a performance evaluation based on the skill you exhibited driving the forklift.

When you completed the classroom lecture, passed the written test, and received a satisfactory rating during the hands-on driving. The trainer can now certify you.

You will receive your certification and/or forklift license card that you can present when applying for a job or when asked by your supervisor.

The certification expires every three years. You need to take the refresher training for its renewal. 

Cost of Forklift Certification

Let’s be honest—the first thing most people wonder about is how much forklift training actually costs. And yeah, you’ll need to spend a bit, but the good news is it’s not as expensive as many think.

Most forklift training courses run around $150 to $200, which is pretty reasonable when you consider the quality of instruction you’re getting. The whole program usually takes one to two days, so you’ll need to set aside a little time, but it’s a short commitment with a big payoff.

Now, if you’re already working, there’s even better news:
Your employer usually covers the cost.
Training can even be done onsite, which is honestly the best setup because workers learn using the actual equipment they operate every day.

(If you want a full breakdown of prices, check out our Forklift Certification Cost guide.)

Getting certified comes with some solid benefits too:

• You instantly look more appealing to employers
• You increase your chances of long-term employment
• You open the door to better roles and possible promotions

So really, there’s no reason not to take the training.

And if you’re looking for a school near you, just pick your state or territory from our directory—we’ve listed training centers you can enroll in.

How to Get Forklift Certification for Free

If You’re an Employer, How Do You Get Your Forklift Operators Certified?

If you're an employer, getting your workers forklift certified is actually pretty simple — and OSHA makes it your responsibility to do it right. Here’s the straight-to-the-point version of how you can get your team certified:

1. Choose How You Want to Deliver the Training

You’ve got two main options:

Option A: Bring in a Training School or Outside Instructor

This is the easiest way. A professional trainer comes to your workplace, uses your forklifts, and trains your team on the exact setup they’ll be working in.
Most employers prefer this because:

• It’s fast
• It covers hands-on evaluation onsite
• It’s tailored to your workplace hazards

Option B: Send Employees to a Training Center

If onsite training isn’t ideal, you can send workers to a local training school. They’ll handle the classroom instruction, hands-on practice, and certification.

2. Make Sure the Training Follows OSHA’s Three Requirements

OSHA only recognizes training that includes:

1. Formal Instruction — classroom, online, or video
2. Practical (Hands-On) Training — real forklift use
3. Evaluation — a qualified trainer watches each operator perform tasks

Without all three parts, the operator is not certified.

3. Keep Records of Each Employee’s Certification

OSHA expects you to maintain documentation showing:

• Employee’s name
• Training date
• Type of forklift they were trained on
• Name of evaluator/instructor

This record proves compliance during audits or inspections.

4. Provide Employer Authorization

Even after an employee completes the course, they must be authorized by you to operate at your facility.
That means you evaluate them on:

• Your forklifts
• Your workplace environment
• Your operations and safety rules

Certification + employer authorization = OSHA-compliant operator.

5. Schedule Refresher Training When Needed

You must provide refresher or re-evaluation training when:

• Operators hit the 3-year renewal mark
• There’s a near-miss or accident
• The operator is observed driving unsafely
• A new forklift type is introduced
• Work conditions change

OSHA requires this to keep safety sharp.

6. Consider Training One Employee as a “Trainer”

Many companies save money by sending one experienced operator to become a certified trainer.
This person can then train and evaluate other employees internally, as long as they are “qualified” under OSHA’s standard.

In Short:

Getting your workers certified is all about choosing the right training method, making sure it follows OSHA rules, keeping records, and giving proper onsite evaluation. Do this consistently, and your workplace stays compliant—and a whole lot safer. 

After Certification – What’s Next?

Congrats—you’re officially forklift certified! 🎉
So… what happens now? Here’s a simple, no-stress guide to what comes after earning that certification badge.

Keeping Your Certification Updated

Your forklift certification isn’t a "get it once and forget it" deal. Most certifications are good for three years, and after that, you’ll need a refresher. Sometimes that means taking a quick class, other times it’s a short evaluation just to prove you still know how to handle the truck safely.

It also helps to stay updated with new rules, safety tips, or equipment upgrades. A short workshop or toolbox talk here and there keeps you sharp—and shows your employer you take safety seriously.

Finding Work With Your New Certification

With your certification in hand, you’ve suddenly got way more job options. Forklift operators are needed pretty much everywhere:

• Warehouses
• Construction sites
• Distribution centers
• Manufacturing plants
• Shipping and receiving yards

You might be moving pallets one day and heavy building materials the next—it really depends on the workplace.

And here’s a bonus: forklift certification can even help you get hired in jobs you wouldn’t expect, like certain retail stores, event setups, or production gigs where heavy equipment needs moving. Employers love applicants who come in already trained.

Leveling Up: Advanced Training & Specializations

If you’re the type who likes taking things further, there’s plenty of room to grow. You can train on:

• Different types of forklifts (reach trucks, order pickers, rough terrain, etc.)
• Specialized loads
• Hazardous materials handling
• Supervisor or trainer-level courses

The more certifications you stack, the more valuable you become—and yes, that usually means better pay too. It shows employers you’re serious about your career and willing to invest in your skills.

Once you’re certified, your journey is just starting. Keep your certification updated, land a solid job, and keep leveling up your skills whenever you can. Forklift operation is a career path with tons of opportunities—you’re already on your way there!

Final Thoughts

If there’s one thing you should take away from this guide, it’s that learning how to become forklift certified isn’t just a formality—it’s a crucial part of staying safe and getting ahead in your career. Operating a forklift without proper training puts you and everyone around you at risk, and employers who ignore OSHA’s requirements can face steep fines and serious violations.

The good news? Getting certified doesn’t cost much, and the long-term benefits are huge. A small investment in quality training can help you land better jobs, keep your workplace safer, and build a solid foundation for your future. No matter why you're taking the training—whether you’re starting fresh or looking to level up—always choose a reputable program that delivers real, hands-on learning.

Now that you know how to become forklift certified, the steps are all laid out for you. Follow the process, stay committed, and keep your certification updated. You’re already on the right track.

Good luck—and here’s to building a safer, stronger, and more successful career!