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If you’ve recently passed your forklift training, you might be wondering: How Long Does a Forklift Certificate Last?
Many people think forklift certification lasts forever, but in the UK, that’s not the case. Under the recommendations from the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 and the management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999, most companies and insurance providers will request that you refresh your certification every 3-5 years. After that, you must complete refresher training to stay certified.
Whether you’re an operator looking to renew your licence or an employer making sure your team is compliant, knowing the rules around forklift certification can save you time, money, and stress.
In this guide, we’ll cover how long your certification lasts, and how to book your refresher training.
What is a forklift certification?
A forklift certification is proof that you’ve completed accredited training and passed both the practical and theoretical assessments in order to operate a forklift safely. In the UK, an official forklift certification is normally accredited by bodies including ITSSAR, RTITB, and NPORS. Here at 2 Start, our forklift training is accredited by ITSSAR.
ITSSAR has a varied knowledge in a broad range of mechanical handling equipment, they aim to improve training standards and monitor training schools like ourselves to make sure we’re delivering the best training for our students. At our most recent ITSSAR audit (August 2025), the team passed with flying colours.
The specific forklift course you complete depends on what type of forklift you need to operate – from Counterbalance and Reach Trucks to Rough Terrain machines. Find out more about the different forklift training we offer here.
Why do forklift certificates expire?
Forklift operation is a safety-critical role. Even experienced operators can develop unsafe habits and regulations or best practices can change over time. Renewing your certificate every 3-5 years ensures:
- You stay compliant with your accrediting body’s requirements
- You keep up to date with current safety standards.
- You maintain good operational habits
What happens during refresher training?
The good news is that refresher training for ITSSAR certificates is typically completed in just one day. During the refresher training, you’ll go through a theory review, revisiting key safety points and operational knowledge, practical exercises including manoeuvres, stacking and load handling and complete an assessment confirming you still meet the required competency level.
What if my certificate has already expired?
If your forklift certificate has already expired, you’ll need to book a refresher course before you can operate a forklift again in the workplace. Some employers may even require you to complete the full course again if your certificate is out of date by a significant period.
What forklift training does 2 Start offer?
At 2 Start, we offer a wide variety of forklift training across 4 out of 6 of our depots. For each type of forklift we offer Novice training for complete beginners, Experienced training for those who have relevant experience and have not received any approved training, Conversion courses to switch between forklift types and Refresher training for certificate renewals.
We train students weekly on the following Forklift types:
- Counterbalance Forklift
- Reach Forklift
- Truck-Mounted Forklift
- Pivot Steer Forklift
- Powered Pallet Truck
📅 Book Your Forklift Refresher Training
If your forklift certificate is approaching its 5-year expiry date, now’s the time to book your refresher. Our one-day courses are designed to get you back up to speed quickly, refresh your skills, and keep you fully compliant. With multiple depots across the South Coast, flexible dates, and experienced instructors, we make it simple to stay certified.
Book your refresher training here.
