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Forklift Truck (FLT) operators lift and move goods, materials, and cargo in warehouses and supply chains.
They also load and unload vehicles to support the drops handled by Heavy Goods Vehicle (HGV) drivers.
Forklift manoeuvring plays a key role in keeping warehouse operations and deliveries running smoothly.
But many ask—do you need a licence to operate a forklift?
Do You Need A Licence To Drive A Forklift
In short, no.
While you don’t require a “licence,” businesses are legally required to ensure that operators receive proper training, which will help them understand the Provisional and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998 (PUWER) and Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998 (LOLER).
Many businesses require a certificate of completion to prove that you have attended and successfully passed the correct and relevant training for the FLT you will be operating. At 2 Start, while students/employers will receive this certificate the day they pass their course, this certificate is sent by post after their training has been logged on the ITSSAR Trained Operator Passport Scheme (TOPS) database by an FLT instructor.
The course you complete will only permit you to operate the Forklift you have trained and tested for. For example, if using a Counterbalance Forklift, you must complete training for this FLT. You cannot use a Reach truck with a Counterbalance certification. If you do require certification for another truck type, 2 Start offers conversion courses. Proof of your current certification is required before completing your course, as the training length will be shorter, due to the students already having experience operating a Forklift and knowledge of the health and safety aspects.
The certification, if an accredited one, will show that you have completed a course that is backed by an awarding body within the Forklift Training sector. This reinforces to others that you are up to date with the current and appropriate methods of FLT operating.
Other Licences Required
If you are planning to operate a truck-mounted forklift (also known as a Moffett) then you may require a Category C licence. This is because this type of FLT can be transported to different locations, commonly on a Class 2 vehicle. While it is not a requirement to have this entitlement on your licence before completing Moffett Training, you may be expected to have the Class 2 entitlement by employers.
Age Requirement
Anyone operating a Forklift in a Warehouse environment must be at least school leaver age unless you are working on ports, where the age requirement is 18.
Health Requirements
There’s no official fitness test to operate a forklift.
However, the general rule follows the same health standards as a full UK driving licence.
You’ll need full movement in your arms, legs, and hands.
You must also have good vision, corrected with glasses if needed, and be able to hear clearly.
These basic requirements ensure you can operate safely and stay aware of your surroundings.
How To Complete Training
The first to identify is what FLT you need training for.
2 Start offers the following FLTs to train on:
We also offer courses for Rough Terrain Forklifts. Learn to manoeuvre, stack & de-stack a J1, J2 or J3 Rough Terrain vehicle. Perfect for individuals working in outdoor construction.
All courses are accredited by the Independent Training Standards Scheme & Register (ITSSAR) so you can be sure that your training is up to date and relevant to the current regulations and legislations.
You can book your next Forklift course by calling our team on 02392 123 555 or complete our enquiry form.
