Career roadmap
How to Become a Forklift Operator
The education, training, certifications and steps it takes to start working as a forklift operator, plus how long it takes and where the career can lead.
To become a forklift operator: (1) meet basic requirements, (2) get a warehouse job, (3) complete forklift training, (4) pass the evaluation, (5) advance. Most people need about 1–5 days. BLS lists “no formal educational credential” as the typical entry-level education.
5 steps to become a forklift operator
Meet basic requirements
Be at least 18 and able to pass any required drug screening.
Get a warehouse job
Many employers train associates to become operators.
Complete forklift training
Classroom instruction plus hands-on practice.
Pass the evaluation
Demonstrate safe operation for your employer.
Advance
Learn reach trucks and order pickers, then move into lead, inventory control or supervision.
Education and training requirements
No formal education is required. Operators must be at least 18 under federal child labor rules, and OSHA requires employer-provided training (classroom and hands-on) plus a performance evaluation before operating independently.
| Typical entry-level education (BLS) | No formal educational credential |
|---|---|
| Related work experience | None |
| On-the-job training | Short-term on-the-job training |
| Typical training time | 1–5 days |
Certifications and licenses
- Employer forklift certification: OSHA requires training and evaluation specific to the trucks and workplace (29 CFR 1910.178).
- Re-evaluation every 3 years: Required at least every three years, and refresher training after incidents or unsafe operation.
- MSSC Certified Logistics Associate (CLA): A foundational logistics credential.
- OSHA 10 General Industry: Helpful general safety training.
Skills to build now
Start with forklift and reach truck operation, load handling and stacking, and pre-shift inspection, and practice situational awareness and reliability. Learning the forklift operator vocabulary early makes training and interviews easier.
Where the career can lead
- Forklift Operator: Move materials safely.
- Multi-Equipment Operator: Run reach trucks and order pickers.
- Lead or Inventory Control Specialist: Coordinate work or manage inventory accuracy.
- Warehouse Supervisor: Lead teams and operations.
Get a head start
Our self-paced Forklift Operator training gives you a realistic, practical overview of the job (duties, terminology, step-by-step tasks, safety and interview prep) so you can decide with confidence and show employers you’re serious.
Common questions about getting started
How do I get forklift certified?
OSHA requires your employer to train and evaluate you on the equipment you’ll use. Many employers provide this training for new hires; some training centers offer courses that help you get hired.
How long does forklift certification last?
OSHA requires operator performance to be evaluated at least once every three years, and sooner after an incident or unsafe operation.
How long does it take to become a forklift operator?
Most people need about 1–5 days of training. No formal education is required. Operators must be at least 18 under federal child labor rules, and OSHA requires employer-provided training (classroom and hands-on) plus a performance evaluation before operating independently.
Do you need a degree to be a forklift operator?
No four-year degree is typically required. BLS lists “no formal educational credential” as the typical entry-level education, plus short-term on-the-job training.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 53-7051 (Industrial truck and tractor operators).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Industrial truck and tractor operators (U.S. Department of Labor).
- BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Reviewed by the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team. Pay figures are national estimates; local pay varies. See our editorial policy.