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What Do I Need to Get a Forklift Licence?

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Operating a forklift is a skilled job that requires proper training and certification. In the UK, anyone who wants to drive a forklift must hold a valid forklift licence. But how do you get one? According to law, you can become certified if you successfully complete a forklift training course offered by an accredited body. 

Below, we equip you with all the essential information on acquiring a forklift licence, including training courses and forklift licence costs in the UK. 

The Importance of Forklift Training

Forklift training is crucial for ensuring the safety of operators, co-workers and the workplace environment. Forklifts are powerful machines that can cause serious accidents and injuries if improperly operated. In fact, according to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), forklifts are involved in roughly a quarter of all workplace transport accidents.

Proper forklift training not only reduces the risk of accidents but also improves efficiency and productivity. A well-trained driver can handle loads more quickly and safely, reducing downtime and increasing output.

What are Forklift Training Requirements?

To become a certified forklift operator, you must complete a forklift training course that’s accredited by a recognised body, such as the: 

  • RTITB – Road Transport Industry Training Board
  • ITSSAR – Independent Training Standards Scheme and Register
  • NPORS – National Plant Operators Registration Scheme

What Does a Forklift Training Course Cover?

A typical forklift training course covers a range of topics, including:

  1. Forklift controls and instruments
  2. Pre-use inspections and maintenance
  3. Safe operating procedures
  4. Load handling and stacking
  5. Workplace hazards and risk assessment
  6. Relevant health and safety regulations

The course usually consists of a combination of classroom-based theory and practical hands-on training. The practical training is conducted based on the type of forklift the operator will use in their workplace, such as a counterbalance forklift or a reach truck.

Forklift Training Course Duration

The duration of a forklift training course depends on several factors, including the type of forklift, the operator’s experience level, and the training provider. For novices, a typical course may last between 3 and 5 days. For experienced operators who need a refresher course, the duration may be shorter, usually 1 or 2 days.

Forklift Licence Cost UK

The cost of a forklift licence in the UK varies depending on the provider and the type of course. On average, a basic forklift training course for novices costs between £600 and £1,000 plus VAT. This price typically includes the cost of the training, the certification, and the registration with the accrediting body.

The cost is usually lower for experienced operators who need a refresher course, ranging from £100 to £500 plus VAT.

It’s important to note that some employers may cover the cost of forklift training for their employees. However, investing in forklift training can be a worthwhile expense if you’re self-employed or looking to improve your employability.

Choosing a Forklift Training Provider

When choosing a forklift truck training provider, it’s essential to ensure they’re accredited by a recognised body and have a good reputation in the industry. Look for a provider that offers comprehensive training courses that cover both theory and practical skills, and that use up-to-date equipment and training materials.

Forklift Operator Training Course from TAG

At TAG, we offer a range of accredited forklift training courses for both novices and old hands. Our courses are designed to provide the knowledge and skills needed to operate forklifts safely and efficiently in any workplace environment.

We offer forklift courses for various vehicles, including:

  • CAT B1 (Up to 5-ton Trucks)
  • CAT B2 (Up to 10-ton Trucks)
  • Reach Trucks CAT D1 (Up to 5-ton) with a mast from 3-8 metres
  • Aisle Master (Pivot Steer)

Our training courses are led by an RTITB-accredited forklift operator who can provide training on- or off-site. We’re also preparing to open our own training centre that will offer courses based on various environments, such as warehouses or outdoor settings.

eTruck Learning from TAG

We understand that traditional forklift truck training methods can disrupt work schedules. That’s why we introduced eTruck Learning. eTruck Learning is a blended learning system that combines online modules with in-person practical training. 

This frees up classroom time for trainers to focus on hands-on skills development, such as mastering forklift controls and practising safety procedures. The system offers several advantages over traditional methods, including:

  • Reducing the total training time by allowing trainees to complete some of the learning independently. 
  • Providing a more flexible learning pace, allowing trainees to learn at their own convenience. 
  • Ensuring consistent training content by delivering theory through standardised online modules. 
  • Simplifying administration tasks such as scheduling training, tracking results, and managing certifications.

Start Working on Getting a Forklift Licence Today

Getting a forklift licence is essential for anyone who wants to operate a forklift in the UK. By completing an accredited forklift training course, you can gain the knowledge and skills needed to handle these powerful machines safely and efficiently. 

The cost of a forklift certification varies depending on the training provider and the type of course, but investing in proper training can improve your employability and reduce the risk of accidents in the workplace.

TAG Forklift Trucks: Your Partner for Forklift Training and Certification

At TAG Forklift Trucks, we understand the importance of proper forklift training to ensure the safety and productivity of your workplace. We offer a range of accredited forklift training courses for both novice and experienced operators.

In addition to our forklift training courses, we also offer a range of forklift hire, sales and service options to suit every need and budget. Our fleet includes a wide range of forklift types and capacities, from electric and gas-powered counterbalance forklifts to reach trucks and telehandlers. 

Just remember to inform us upfront if any equipment you hire from us is likely to be used with hazardous substances like asbestos.