How to Become a Certified Forklift Driver

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posted on 13 years ago — updated on 1 second ago

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Being a forklift driver requires you to use a forklift to move materials in warehouses, storage yards, factories, and construction sites. This job can be hard work, as you may be operating the forklift for eight hours at a time, but it can be ideal if you like using machinery and doing shift work. To do this job, you will need to be at least 18 years old and have a high school diploma. You will also need the required safety training and certification so you can operate the forklift. Once you have the training and skills, you can look for forklift driver positions.

Steps

Having the Necessary Education and Experience

Be at least 18 years of age. This will allow employers to hire you under the labor laws in most countries. You may need to show a driver’s license or government issued ID to prove your age.

Have a high school diploma. Most employers will prefer that you have at least completed your education at the high school level. This is preferred but not required. Most employers will also accept a GED (General Education Diploma).

Get experience working in a warehouse or on a construction site. Operating a forklift will require you to work in these environments. This kind of work experience will help you get used to extreme outdoor conditions as well as the fumes and loud noises commonly found on a site or in a warehouse. Pick up shifts at a warehouse in your area as a worker. Or, take a part-time job at a construction site in a low level position.

Getting Certified

Find an OSHA approved training program. Make sure you enroll in a training program that is being taught by a qualified training instructor. They should have proof that they are certified by OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) to teach the program and confirm you will receive OSHA approval when you complete the course. OSHA acknowledges the competencies of professionals who strive to remove workplace hazards in construction, general industry, and healthcare. Look at the OSHA website for a list of suggested training websites and services you can use. Keep in mind you cannot get certified online. You will need to complete the formal instruction online and then do practical training in person with the trainer. You will also need to be evaluated in person to get certified.

Complete the formal instruction online. This portion of training can be done online in modules at a certified OSHA training website. Depending on your needs, you can get trained on operating warehouse forklifts, rough terrain forklifts, pallet jacks, and order pickers. You will need to complete a short test when you are done with the formal instruction. You are allowed to look up and correct any answers you get wrong during the test. Formal online instruction can cost $60-$80 USD.

Do practical training in the classroom. During the practical training portion, you will get hands-on instruction by the trainer. You will also get live demonstrations with the forklift and do practice exercises on the forklift, under the supervision of the trainer. This must be done in person. Do not buy into any training programs that claim you can complete this portion online. They are likely not legitimate.

Complete the evaluation in person to become certified. The trainer will have you operate the forklift under their supervision and evaluate your performance. Once you pass the in person evaluation, you will be considered OSHA certified. Some training programs will give you a certificate once you pass to show employers. Your name will also be entered into the training records so your employers can look you up and confirm you have been certified.

Have your OSHA training evaluated every three years. As part of OSHA training, your employer will require you to get re-evaulated every three years to confirm your training is up to date. Most employers will pay for you to get your training evaluated every three years and for any retraining you may have to do.

Finding a Position

Apply to be a forklift driver online. Look for open positions for certified forklift drivers on online job sites and boards. Check for open calls for forklift drivers for particular construction sites or warehouses. Employment websites like Indeed.com, Snagajob.com, and Monster.com are all good options.

Work your way up in a warehouse or on a construction site. If you are already working in a warehouse or on a site, see if there are any opens for forklift drivers. Talk to your supervisor or the foreman about taking on this position. Most forklift drivers will work their way up from working as a warehouse associate or a material moving position.

Contact your local employment center. Go in person and inquire about open forklift driver positions in your area. Many construction sites and warehouses will put out a call for drivers through their local employment centers. Bring a copy of your resume and proof of your OSHA certification with you.

Let employers know you are OSHA certified. Employers are more likely to hire you if they know you are certified and ready to work. Make sure you list your OSHA certification on your resume as a credential. Some employers will offer to arrange your OSHA certification as long as you take the online portion of the training.

Determine your pay and work hours. Forklift drivers usually get paid an hourly wage of $15-$16 USD. Over time, you can work your way up to earning $20 USD an hour. You usually work eight hour shifts. Your work hours can vary, as forklift drivers will often work at night or in the early morning to complete a job. If you are working in a warehouse that operates 24 hours a day, you may work longer shifts or several shifts in a row. Your employer should outline your pay and work hours before you start working as a forklift driver.