The forklift training course you take can be online or in person. However, the practical evaluation that follows should always be completed at the work site, on the specific equipment you will be operating.
Online forklift certification is a great alternative to traditional, in-person classes that are time-consuming and expensive. In fact, forklift operators can save up to $200 per class by completing the didactic portion of their forklift training online. Read more https://www.forkliftacademy.com/individual-forklift-certification/
The online forklift certification class consists of classroom training and testing that is usually a combination of 20 multiple-choice questions, and 5 written answers. The test takes no more than 2 hours and can be paused or resumed as needed. After completing the test, you will be awarded an online forklift operator certificate of completion.
But online forklift certification is not a license to operate forklifts, just as a driver’s license is a license to drive a car. Forklift operations are regulated by occupational health and safety authorities and must be conducted under the supervision of a licensed trainer.
Raising Standards: Benefits of Online Forklift Certification Programs
So, if someone claims to offer a “license” or “certificate” for forklift operation, this should be a red flag as it is against regulations. In the United States, for example, you must be certified to operate a forklift in three steps: 1. Attending an OSHA compliant training course. 2. Passing a knowledge assessment exam, and 3. The practical evaluation of your forklift skills. Only if you’ve passed all three of these steps can you be considered “certified” to operate a forklift at your job.