What is Forklift Certification?

Here at Rechtien International Trucks, we offer plenty of new and pre-owned commercial vehicles for you to choose from. While many South Florida business owners come to us for semi-trucks and commercial vehicles, we also provide a selection of forklifts as well. From new forklifts to used forklifts, you’ll have no problem finding the right forklift to add to your business fleet.

But, what is a forklift certification? Like many commercial vehicles, you need a forklift certification to operate one. Operating a forklift isn’t like operating a standard vehicle, so it should be no surprise that you’ll need special training before you can get behind the wheel of one. Today, the experts from Rechtien International Trucks are here to help you learn all about forklift certifications so that you can operate one in no time! We’ll touch on the following:

• What is forklift certification according to OSHA?
• Where to get a forklift certification?
• How long is a forklift certification class?
• How long does a forklift certification last?

Where to a Get Forklift Certification?

Before we can touch on where to get a forklift certification, it’s important to understand OSHA guidelines. OSHA stands for Occupational Safety and Health Administration and when you’re getting forklift certified, you’ll want to find a place that follows OSHA guidelines. Many businesses and companies have to follow OSHA standards, so you’ll want to make sure that wherever you’re getting your certification from that it’s OSHA approved.

Forklift certifications can be received from many training centers or even some employers near you. You’ll find that online forklift certifications are offered, but to fully be forklift certified, you’ll need to have an approved trainer or employer observe your skills before you can become fully certified. Because of this, most online certification classes can’t technically get you forklift certified, but instead, they can help you train to become forklift certified.

How Long is a Forklift Certification Class?

When you’re looking for a forklift certification class, you’ll find that some may claim that the class is only two hours. However, it’s best to avoid these types of classes. Since there are technically three parts to forklift certification to become OSHA approved, it’s almost impossible to get fully trained in just two hours.

Instead, expect to spend anywhere from three to five days on a forklift certification course. Of course, this can vary depending on the level of detail of the specific forklift certification that you’re taking. The three parts of OSHA-approved forklift certification are formal instruction, hands-on training, and final evaluation and certification.

How Long Does a Forklift Certification Last?

With three to five days on average of expected training, this may be more time than some forklift operators are willing to spend. Fortunately, you won’t have to get recertified often as most forklift certifications are valid for some time. So, how long does a forklift certification last? Forklift certifications for up to three years. After those three years, you’ll have to get recertified.

Browse Our Forklifts After Getting Your Forklift Certification Today!

Once you’ve gotten your forklift certification, work with Rechtien International Trucks today to find the perfect forklift to add to your South Florida business fleet. We’ve got plenty of forklifts for you to choose from and we can’t wait to wait to help your business grow. Please feel free to let us know if you have any questions!