Forklift operators are in demand in the US, and it can be quite a lucrative job, with salaries starting at $16.41 per hour. This is because forklifts are essential in industries like construction, warehousing, manufacturing, and logistics.
However, operating a forklift requires proper training and certification to ensure safety, efficiency, and legal compliance. If you or your employees need forklift certification, it’s crucial to understand the associated costs and what they include.
This article will break down the expenses involved in getting a forklift certification, the types of certifications available, and other factors affecting forklift certification cost.
What Is Forklift Certification?
Forklift certification is a formal process that verifies an individual’s ability to safely operate a forklift. All forklift operators must be certified before operating any powered industrial trucks, including forklifts. This is the mandate by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) in the US.
The operator certification process involves classroom instruction, practical training, and a performance evaluation to ensure the operator understands forklift safety rules and can handle the equipment proficiently.
Types of Forklift Certifications
There are several different types of forklifts, each requiring specific certifications. Some of the most common types include:
- Class I: Electric Motor Rider Trucks (used in warehouses and for indoor material handling)
- Class II: Electric Motor Narrow Aisle Trucks (used in narrow-aisle storage facilities)
- Class III: Electric Motor Hand Trucks (walk-behind and hand-operated trucks)
- Class IV: Internal Combustion Engine Trucks (used outdoors on rough terrain)
- Class V: Internal Combustion Engine Trucks, Pneumatic Tires (used outdoors for heavy loads)
- Class VI: Electric and Internal Combustion Tractors
- Class VII: Rough Terrain Forklifts (used in construction and farming)
The certification cost may vary depending on the type of forklift you plan to operate, as different certifications require different levels of training and practical experience.
Forklift Certification Costs: What to Expect
The cost of forklift operator certification can vary widely depending on several factors, including the type of training provider, location, and whether the certification is done online or in person. Below are the common categories of certification and their associated costs.
1. Online Forklift Certification Cost
Online forklift certification is a convenient and often more affordable option. However, remember that OSHA requires practical, hands-on training, which cannot be completed online. Therefore, online courses generally cover only the classroom portion of the training. After completing the online course, you’ll need to arrange for a practical evaluation by a certified instructor.
Average Cost: $50 to $150
What It Includes: Online instruction on safety rules, equipment handling, and OSHA regulations. You’ll receive a certificate upon completing the classroom portion, but you must complete hands-on training elsewhere.
2. In-Person Forklift Certification Cost
In-person forklift certification courses are typically offered at vocational schools, community colleges, or specialized training centers. These courses provide both the classroom instruction and hands-on training required by OSHA in a single package.
Average Cost: $150 to $300
It includes classroom training, hands-on experience with forklifts, and the final evaluation. These programs typically provide everything you need to become OSHA-certified, including theoretical and practical components.
3. Employer-Sponsored Forklift Certification Cost
Many employers provide forklift certification as part of their onboarding or training programs for new hires. If you’re currently employed and need forklift certification, check with your employer to see if they offer this as part of your role. In some cases, employers will cover the cost of certification entirely.
Average Cost: $0 (if covered by the employer)
It includes on-site training, which often includes classroom instruction and hands-on practice using the company’s equipment. Some companies will also bring in third-party trainers to certify their employees on-site.
4. Third-Party Training Providers
Several independent training companies offer forklift certification at various locations, or they may come to your facility to provide training. These third-party providers may offer both individual and group rates, making them an attractive option for businesses that need to certify multiple employees.
Average Cost: $200 to $500 per person
It includes both classroom and hands-on training, as well as the final evaluation. Group discounts may be available for employers who want to train multiple employees at once.
What Factors Affect the Cost of Forklift Certification?
Several factors can influence the total cost of forklift certification. They include the following.
Training Format
Online training is generally less expensive than in-person courses because there are no physical resources required. However, you’ll still need to pay for hands-on training to complete your certification.
Location
Certification costs can vary by region. Training centers in large cities may charge more due to higher overhead costs, while those in rural areas may be more affordable.
Type of Forklift
If you need certification for specialized equipment, such as rough-terrain forklifts or narrow-aisle trucks, the cost of certification may be higher. This is due to the specialized nature of the training.
Number of Trainees
Group rates or employer-sponsored training can lower the overall cost per person. Employers may also negotiate discounts with third-party providers to certify multiple employees at once.
Additional Training Requirements
Some training providers offer extra services, such as advanced safety courses or operator retraining, which can add to the cost. If you are certifying for more than one type of forklift, additional fees may apply.
Renewing Forklift Certification: What You Need to Know
Forklift certification is not a one-time event. OSHA requires forklift operators to renew their certification every three years.
The renewal process generally involves refresher training and a new evaluation to ensure that the operator remains proficient. The cost of renewing a certification is typically lower than the initial certification.
- Renewal Cost: $50 to $150 (depending on the training provider)
- What It Includes: Refresher course, updated OSHA regulations, and a re-evaluation of skills
Forklift Training Cost Varies but Is Absolutely Essential
Think of the forklift certification cost as an investment in your or your employees’ future. It’s a requirement if you wish to work in the lucrative field of forklift operation.
Superior Industrial Products offers top-level forklift training from industry professionals at competitive prices. Our training meets all the OSHA certification requirements and we offer our courses in Indianapolis, Nashville, and Fort Worth.
Ready to get started? Contact us to learn more about class times, schedules, and pricing.