Driving a forklift isn’t as simple as hopping in and hitting the gas. These machines don’t steer like cars; they carry thousands of pounds, and if you don’t know what you’re doing, things can go very wrong, very fast. That’s why basic forklift training isn’t just a suggestion, it’s a requirement.
Whether you’re brand new to forklifts or need to renew your certification, training teaches you how to operate a forklift safely, understand OSHA forklift certification requirements, and follow the right safety procedures to keep yourself and everyone around you out of harm’s way.
But here’s the thing: watching a safety training video won’t make you an expert. You need hands-on training, practice, and an understanding of how forklifts actually work, from daily inspections to real-world driving situations.
In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about forklift training and certification, including OSHA-approved training options, online and in-person courses, and hands-on evaluation requirements. By the time you’re done, you’ll know exactly how to get certified, stay compliant, and drive a forklift with confidence.
Let’s get started.
With over 40 years of experience helping businesses train and certify operators, we know what it takes to keep workplaces safe, efficient, and OSHA-compliant. Whether you need on-site training, refresher courses, or an online program, we’ve got you covered.
Understanding Forklift Certification
If you think driving a forklift is just like driving a car, think again. These machines handle loads that weigh thousands of pounds, steer from the rear, and require serious precision to operate safely. That’s why OSHA requires every forklift operator to be certified before getting behind the wheel of a powered industrial truck.
Getting forklift certification isn’t just about following the rules; it’s about making sure you know what you’re doing. A forklift in the wrong hands can be dangerous, and no one wants to be responsible for a forklift accident that could have been prevented. Training teaches you how to operate a forklift safely, understand its limits, and keep your workplace accident-free.
How Do You Get Certified?
Becoming a certified forklift operator means completing an OSHA-compliant forklift certification course that includes:
Formal training
This can be done in a classroom, through an online forklift training program, or even with a forklift training video that covers the basics of forklift operation. Training must be conducted by an authorized forklift trainer.
Hands-on training
Reading about forklifts is one thing, but you need to operate a forklift in a real work environment to fully understand how it handles. During hands-on training, an observation is taken to see how you operate the forklift after training.
An evaluation
A trained instructor will watch you drive and make sure you know what you’re doing before signing off on your forklift license. You will also be required to conduct a writing evaluation quiz to test your knowledge.
And here’s something many people don’t realize: OSHA requires refresher training every three years (or sooner if you switch to a different type of forklift, get into an accident, or are caught using unsafe practices). Refresher training is also conducted by an operator if they are involved in a forklift accident. Certification training support can be provided by KPA. Local consultants can support your forklift training needs.
What’s Covered in Forklift Training?
Forklift training isn’t just about learning how to move pallets. It’s about making sure every operator knows the forklift safety rules, understands the basics of forklift controls, and can handle different situations without panicking.
Why Proper Forklift Training Matters
Here’s the deal: an untrained and uncertified forklift operator is a safety risk. Whether it’s taking sharp turns too fast, failing to yield the right of way, or not securing a load properly, mistakes can be costly. OSHA isn’t playing around, and neither should you.
Good training teaches you:
At KPA, we make sure every forklift operator has the knowledge and hands-on experience to stay safe and compliant. Whether you need an online course, an in-person training program, or a full train-the-trainer certification, we’ve got you covered.
Bottom line? Proper training isn’t optional; it’s essential.
And if you want to get it done right, we’re here to help.
Online Forklift Training Options
The truth is that not everyone has time to sit through an all-day forklift class. Work schedules are packed, life is busy, and spending hours in a training room just isn’t always practical. That’s why online forklift training has become such a popular option. It lets you learn at your own pace, on your own time, from wherever you want.
But here’s the catch: watching a forklift training video won’t magically make you a skilled operator. You wouldn’t learn to drive a car just by watching tutorials, right? Same idea here. OSHA requires a mix of formal training and hands-on evaluation before you can get your forklift certification. That means you can take the classroom portion online, but you still need real-world practice to prove you know how to operate a forklift safely.
The Perfect Combo: Online Learning + Hands-On Training
Think of online forklift training as step one. It covers everything from safety protocols to OSHA requirements, so you know the rules. But step two? That’s where you actually get in the driver’s seat and put those lessons into practice.
What Hands-On Training Actually Teaches You
Here’s the truth: you can’t just “click to get certified” and call it a day. To be a trained and certified forklift driver, you need to combine online learning with hands-on evaluation.
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How KPA Makes Forklift Training Easier (and Smarter)
At KPA, we know that forklift training needs to be both practical and convenient. That’s why we offer OSHA-compliant forklift training that lets you combine online learning with real-world practice—so you actually know what you’re doing when it counts.
What You Get with KPA’s Training:
Bottom line? If you need forklift training that’s practical, effective, and actually prepares you for the job, KPA’s got you covered. Let’s make sure you’re trained, certified, and ready to handle a forklift safely.
Get Forklift Certified for Safe Operation
Forklift training is non-negotiable. Whether you’re new to the job or just need to renew your OSHA forklift certification, it’s what keeps you safe, keeps your company compliant, and, let’s be honest, keeps forklifts from turning into wrecking balls. A good training course teaches you how to operate a forklift safely, handle loads without tipping over, and avoid costly mistakes that could shut down a whole warehouse.
But here’s the thing: traditional forklift training can be a pain. Scheduling a training class, rearranging shifts, and making sure everyone completes their hands-on evaluation? It’s a logistical headache. And if you need a refresher course every few years, the time and costs add up fast.
That’s where we make life easier. At KPA, we take the hassle out of forklift training and certification with flexible, OSHA-compliant programs that fit your schedule. Whether you need online training, hands-on instruction, or both, we help businesses train smarter, not harder.
No wasted time, no unnecessary stress, just the training you need, when you need it.
Test your forklift knowledge with this quick forklift safety quiz!
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