Do You Need a Driver’s License to Drive a Forklift?
Do You Need a Driver’s License to Drive a Forklift?
One of the most appealing and interesting aspects of working in a warehouse is getting to operate the forklift. The ability to move a vehicle around to pick up boxes and pallets from one place to another can be exciting and engaging work.
In order to do this task, you need to have the correct training and experience to do the job correctly. You want to do this job without putting your fellow co-workers in danger. This can be more difficult when it’s done in a confined space like a warehouse.
This will bring up the question of if you need a driver’s license to drive a forklift. GL Staffing breaks this down to help you see if you’re qualified for a forklift operator position.
What to Know About Forklift Licenses and Certifications
The most important thing to know is that a forklift license and a typical driver’s license are two different things.
Can I Operate a Forklift Without a License?
You DO NOT need a driver’s license to operate a forklift BUT, you do need to have a valid forklift certification or forklift-specific license. OSHA does NOT require forklift drivers to have a driver’s license.
Having a driver’s license is definitely a plus as it shows that you know how to already operate a vehicle. For example, you know how to accelerate, brake, and steer.
A prospective employer will want to see that you at least have a forklift license or certification.
What’s Needed For a Forklift License?
To obtain a forklift license, you need to complete a forklift certification course. Your employer may offer this as a part of the onboarding process but some may already expect you to have this. Forklift certification is offered both in-person and online though it’s recommended to take this course in person as it allows you to be hands-on with the different controls of a forklift.
How Much is a Forklift License?
Each vendor will have its own pricing. Depending on how deep and long the training is, the usual range is from about $38 – $100 for online classes. In-person classes will typically cost you a few hundred dollars to ensure that you know everything that there is to know.
Most training courses to drive a forklift will go over:
-Introduction material
-OSHA safety requirements
-Various forklift classes
-Operating a forklift
-Performing inspections
-Load balancing and load handling
What Is The Minimum Age Required For Driving A Forklift?
To drive a forklift, you must be at least 18 years old. With that said, it is possible to drive a forklift at 16-17 while under adult supervision.
What’s The Maximum Speed For A Forklift?
The most common forklift maximum speed is 10 miles per hour. With that said, most businesses will limit forklift speeds to 5 miles per hour. Additionally, forklift operators will be required to stay at least 20 feet away from all bystanders, other vehicles, and storage racks while in motion
Looking to Drive a Forklift?
GL Staffing wants to help you find the perfect forklift operating job. If you want to drive a forklift, visit our contact page so we can help. We have decades of experience and hundreds of connections to help you get to work!
