Exploring your career and education options?
If the construction and warehousing industry is calling your name, it’s important to know the legal requirements of your preferred position.
Below, we take a look at the various forklift truck training legal requirements that you’ll need to abide by if you want to pursue a career as a forklift truck operator.
What are the legal requirements for driving a forklift?
Contrary to popular belief, you do not need a ‘forklift licence’ to operate a forklift.
However, you do need to have completed the relevant forklift truck training. This will ensure you know how to safely operate a forklift – covering everything from the risks of forklift operation to how to conduct a routine pre-use inspection of the vehicle.
Furthermore, while you do not need to have a full UK driving licence to either operate a forklift or undertake the training, you will also need a driving licence if you plan to operate a forklift on a public highway.
On top of these course-specific requirements, applicants must also possess basic numeracy skills and have the ability to speak, read, and write English to a degree that ensures they can complete the necessary training.
Individuals should also be reasonably fit both physically and mentally.
How old do you need to be to drive a forklift?
Part of the aforementioned forklift truck training legal requirements, there is also a minimum applicant age.
Set by the HSE, the individual undertaking forklift truck training must be of MSLA (minimum school-leaving age) which is typically 18 in the UK.
Professional forklift training at SB Skills Solutions
For more information regarding forklift truck training legal requirements or any other related queries you might have about becoming a forklift operator, feel free to contact our helpful team today.
Our qualified and experienced forklift operation instructors will be able to answer a wide range of questions!
Alternatively, if you’re ready to start your career as a forklift operator, why not take a look at our comprehensive industrial forklift truck training course?
Designed to help individuals break into the construction or warehousing industry, we offer National Plant Operators Registration Scheme (NPORS) accredited courses as well as our own in-house training.
As trusted training provider, our friendly and knowledgeable team is on hand to help you select the right training course for yourself or your employees.
To learn more about our courses, prices, and training services, simply give us a call on 01695 558 420 or send your enquiry via email to info@sbskills.co.uk
You can also get in touch by filling in and submitting our handy online contact form.
