How Hard Is It To Get A Forklift Licence In The UK?

Operating a forklift truck requires proper training and certification. But how difficult is it to actually get licensed in the UK?

At TAG Forklifts, we are experienced in administering forklift training and guiding trainees through the licensing process. Read on for a comprehensive look at everything you need to know about obtaining your forklift licence.

How Hard Is It To Get A Forklift Licence?

Getting licensed to operate forklifts in the UK is relatively straightforward for most people. The training gives you all the necessary skills and knowledge in a simple step-by-step process.

Here’s a quick difficulty assessment of acquiring a forklift licence:

• Eligibility criteria are not overly strict – main requirements are being 18+ and holding a driver’s licence.

• Classroom theory requires focus but features straight-forward instruction.

• Practical training is accessible with expert guidance from your instructor.

• The forklift licence test itself is achievable with proper preparation from your course.

• Pass rates are high amongst committed trainees at good training providers.

• If you fail your test, you can simply retrain and retake it.

The most important factors are choosing a high quality training provider and giving 100% effort and concentration during your course.

As long as you meet basic requirements, study hard and practise diligently, obtaining your forklift licence in the UK is very achievable for most people. Proper training gives you all the tools to pass successfully.

At TAG Forklifts, our excellent RTITB instructors provide the knowledge and hands-on skills for trainees to become certified operators. Contact us today to begin your licensing journey!

What Kinds of Forklift Licences Can TAG Help Me to Acquire?

Two main licences are required to operate forklifts in the UK:

• Category B1 – For counterbalance forklift trucks up to 5 tons capacity
• Category B2 – For counterbalance forklift trucks up to 10 tons capacity

Depending on your specific forklift model, you will need to obtain one of these licences by undertaking formal training and passing a test.

Additional specialised licences may be required for certain types of trucks like reach trucks or telehandlers. Our instructors can advise which licence you need. 

In addition to the two main licences we can train you to acquire: 

• Category D1 – Reach truck licences for internal applications. 
• Aisle Master (Pivot Steer) Training (Coming Soon!)

These licences are commonly useful for internal forklift applications, such as warehouses, shelf stacking and stock management. 

What Do I Need to be Eligible for a Forklift Licence?

To be eligible for forklift certification in the UK, you must:

• Be at least 18 years old
• Have a valid UK driver’s licence for at least 2 years
• Pass a medical examination assessing fitness to operate forklifts
• Pass a drugs and alcohol screening
• Have a good working knowledge of English

Your training provider can assist with confirming you meet requirements.

How do I Get a Forklift Licence in the UK?

Here are the key steps to obtaining your forklift operating licence:

1. Select an Accredited Training Provider: Choose an RTITB or NPORS approved training company. TAG Forklifts offer accredited courses.
2. Undergo Theoretical Training: Learn about legislation, forklift parts, controls, stability, refuelling etc. through classroom teaching.
3. Receive Practical Training: Get hands-on instruction on forklift operation under supervisor observation.
4. Pass the License Test: Testing includes a theory exam plus a practical test observing forklift handling skills.
5. Apply for Your Forklift Licence: Upon passing exams, apply for your licence through the accredited body.
6. Renew and Update Training: Licences require renewal every 5 years with refresher courses recommended.

How Long Does Training Last?

The time required to gain your licence can vary:

• Novice training: Up to 5 days of theory and practical training
• Refresher training: 1-3 days classroom and practical revision

Here at TAG Forklifts, we offer flexible course lengths to suit your needs.

What Should I Look for in a Forklift Training Provider?

Choosing an accredited and experienced training provider is key. When selecting a company, look for:

• RTITB or NPORS accreditation: Choosing a training provider accredited by the RTITB (Road Transport Industry Training Board) or NPORS (National Plant Operators Registration Scheme) ensures instructors and courses meet high quality standards. These bodies regularly audit providers.
• Highly skilled instructors with practical experience: Look for instructors who are not just trained in teaching methods but also have extensive real-world experience operating forklifts professionally. This practical knowledge is invaluable.
• Flexible training locations and schedules: Seek providers that offer training on-site at your workplace or facility. This avoids disruption and is often a legal requirement. Also useful is flexibility around training durations and time slots.
• Training on various forklift types: The best providers will facilitate training on different forklift vehicles you may need to operate, such as counterbalance, reach trucks, order pickers etc.
• Good instructor-to-student ratio: A low ratio allows for proper supervision and guidance during practical training sessions. Maximum 6-8 students per instructor is ideal.
• Excellent pass rates: Providers with high first-time pass rates indicate effective teaching and good pre-test preparation. Look for 80%+ pass rates.

As one of the most trusted training providers in Manchester, TAG Forklifts ticks all these boxes.

How Much Does Forklift Training Typically Cost?

The cost of forklift training ranges from £250 – £1000 depending on factors like:

• Course duration: Prices understandably increase for longer, more in-depth courses versus short 1-2 day programs.
• Classroom vs on-site training: Classroom training is often cheaper than on-site instruction, which requires transport of equipment. But on-site training is better for understanding your unique workplace.
• Number of trainees: There are cost savings from providers when training groups rather than individuals due to resource efficiencies.
• Instructor ratios: Courses with more instructors per trainee usually cost more due to higher staffing requirements.
• Geographic location: There are regional differences in course pricing depending on instructor salaries and site facilities. Urban areas are generally more expensive.
• Time of year: Avoid peak times when demand surges. Forklift course prices rise significantly around the pre-Christmas period for example.

At TAG Forklifts, we offer competitive rates while maintaining high standards.

What are the Job Opportunities After Getting a Forklift Licence?

Gaining your forklift licence opens up a wider range of materials handling job opportunities including:

• Forklift and stacker truck operators: Most directly, gaining a forklift licence qualifies you to operate forklifts in roles from warehouses to construction sites.
• Warehousing roles: Warehouses employ high volumes of forklift drivers, so being licensed broadens roles available to you in this sector.
• Logistics and distribution jobs: Forklift skills are highly desirable for supply chain roles in logistics hubs and distribution centres.
• Manufacturing positions: Manufacturing plants utilise forklifts for moving materials and final products. Licensing expands your prospects here.
• Construction and civil engineering: Building sites use forklifts for lifting and transporting construction materials, equipment and supplies.
• Retail: Large retail stores and warehouses operate forklifts for inventory management, so licensing opens up more opportunities.
• Agriculture: Forklifts play a vital role on farms for lifting, loading and handling hay bales, feed sacks and livestock equipment.

A licence demonstrates you have the skills and training to safely operate forklifts in diverse settings.

Why Get Proper Forklift Training?

While optional in some workplace settings, undertaking official forklift training and licensing is highly recommended for several key reasons:

• Improved safety for yourself and others: Training teaches the hazards of unsafe forklift operation and how to avoid them through correct handling.
• Learn from experienced professionals: Instructors pass on practical insights into real working environments that you can’t get from books or independent learning. Here at TAG Forklifts, our RTITB qualified instructor offers industry-leading training on a range of machines. 
• Legally required by many employers: Most major companies mandate new operators must undertake certified training before using their forklifts due to insurance requirements.
• Enhances employability: Certification proves to employers you have the legally required skills and training to operate forklifts in their workplaces.
• Increases confidence through hands-on practice: Trainees gain experience with manoeuvres and develop reflexes under instructor supervision before working independently.
• Ongoing support: Good training providers offer continued mentorship, licence renewals and refresher courses for their graduates.

In summary, obtaining your forklift licence through formal training is a straightforward process that opens up new job opportunities. Follow the steps, use a trusted provider like TAG Forklifts, and you can soon be certified and ready to operate forklifts safely.

For a B1, B2, D1 or Pivot Steer Training, Call TAG Forklifts Today

Here at TAG Forklifts, we can provide a range of forklift training courses for complete novices and experienced forklift operators. Whether you’re looking to gain experience operating forklifts indoors or at our new forklift training grounds, don’t hesitate to get in touch today.