Question 1

What is Forklift Certification?

Accepted Answer

As per OSHA standard 1910.178, employers must ensure all forklift rough terrain operators are properly trained and certified. Operators must complete formal instruction, hands-on training, and a performance evaluation to earn certification. Our Forklift Certification course, available 100% online, fulfils the formal instruction requirement. It covers all OSHA-required topics, including operational guidelines, safety precautions, steering, load capacity, inspections, and maintenance. Your employer will provide the practical training and performance evaluation. OSHA mandates that a certified individual qualified to train powered industrial truck operators conduct this on-site training and assessment. Once you complete your hands-on training and pass the evaluation, you’ll be certified to operate a forklift. By completing our OSHA Forklift Training course, you'll be well-prepared to meet OSHA requirements and operate forklifts safely and efficiently.

Question 2

Is this forklift certification course accepted by OSHA?

Accepted Answer

Yes, this Online Forklift Rough Terrain Certification is completely OSHA-compliant and covers all the required topics you must learn to achieve certification.

Question 3

Is this course valid for forklift certification in any industry?

Accepted Answer

This course meets forklift rough terrain certification training requirements for almost all industries and complies with OSHA’s general industry standard for powered industrial trucks (29 CFR 1910.178).  It also adheres to OSHA's construction standard for powered industrial trucks (29 CFR 1926.602[d]), which specifies that the requirements for construction are identical to those in the general industry standard.  However, this course is not applicable for workers in the agriculture industry, as the general industry and construction standards do not cover:  Compressed air or nonflammable gas-powered industrial trucks Farm vehicles Vehicles primarily used for earth moving Vehicles primarily used for over-the-road hauling In addition to this training, your employer will provide hands-on training for the specific equipment used on your jobsite and address any site-specific safety hazards related to forklift operation.

Question 4

Is online forklift certification valid?

Accepted Answer

Yes, our fully online course fulfills OSHA’s formal training requirement for forklift rough terrain operation, which is the first step toward becoming forklift certified. Your employer will provide the remaining steps: hands-on practical training and a performance evaluation.  OSHA mandates that you complete in-person training on the specific equipment you'll be using. A qualified forklift trainer, either employed by or hired by your company, will conduct your performance evaluation. Once you pass the evaluation and demonstrate safe forklift operation, you will be officially certified.

Question 5

Will my forklift certification card be accepted in every state?

Accepted Answer

Yes, our OSHA-compliant forklift rough terrain certification course is recognized in all states and territories under OSHA’s jurisdiction. However, transferring your certification to another employer or state may depend on specific circumstances.  When changing employers, recertification is often required, as your new employer may have different forklift policies or require operation of a different type of forklift. Additionally, each jobsite presents unique hazards that you'll need to familiarize yourself with.

Question 6

How old do I need to be to operate a forklift?

Accepted Answer

You must be at least 18 years old to drive and operate a forklift on rough terrain.

Question 7

Do I need a driver license to operate a forklift?

Accepted Answer

OSHA does not mandate that forklift rough terrain operators hold a state-issued driver's license. However, employers may establish their own specific requirements for operators.

Question 8

What is the difference between a forklift license, a forklift certificate and a forklift certification?

Accepted Answer

Employers and training providers may use various terms to refer to proof of forklift rough terrain certification training.  Upon completing our online forklift training, students receive an instantly downloadable certificate, which can be presented to employers as proof of training completion.  Additionally, we will send you a durable, wallet-sized forklift certification card, which you can carry on the job to demonstrate your certification. While often referred to as a "forklift license," this card is not a government-issued license like a driver's license.

Question 9

How long does forklift certification last?

Accepted Answer

Your forklift rough terrain certification is valid for three years. Once it expires, you’ll need to undergo another performance evaluation with your employer to maintain your certification. OSHA Education Center also recommends that all forklift operators complete refresher training once their certification has expired.

Question 10

When is refresher training required for forklift operators?

Accepted Answer

OSHA mandates that forklift rough terrain operators retake certification training for several reasons. Recertification is required if:  You are observed operating a forklift unsafely You are involved in a forklift accident You are involved in a near-miss incident An evaluation reveals unsafe forklift operation You are assigned to a new type of forklift that you haven’t been trained on Workplace conditions change, affecting the safe operation of a forklift Following refresher training, you must complete a performance evaluation to maintain certification.

Question 11

What types of forklifts are covered in this certification course?

Accepted Answer

The Forklift Rough Terrain Certification course covers the safe operation of a variety of forklift types, including:  Class I: Electric motor rider trucks Class II: Electric motor narrow aisle trucks Class III: Electric motor hand trucks or hand/rider trucks Class IV: Internal combustion engine trucks (solid/cushion tires) Class V: Internal combustion engine trucks (pneumatic tires) Class VI: Electric and internal combustion engine tractors Class VII: Rough terrain forklift trucks This training does not apply to compressed air or nonflammable compressed-gas operated industrial trucks, farm vehicles or vehicles used primarily for earth moving for over-the-road hauling.

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