If you want to become a certified forklift operator, you must pass a forklift theory test. This exam will assess your knowledge of safety procedures, operational guidelines, and legal requirements that are essential for operating a forklift in various work environments. While it may seem daunting at first, understanding the test’s structure and key topics will help you pass that all-important final test.

In this guide, we break down the forklift theory test into its main components and provide you with valuable tips to help you ace the exam. Whether you are a complete novice or you’re an experienced forklift operator looking to refresh your knowledge, this guide will set you on the right path to success.

• What is a Forklift Certification?
• The Forklift Theory Test
• Tips for Success in the Forklift Theory Test
• Forklift Theory Test: Sample Questions 
• Pass Your Forklift Test with Ease with HL Training

What is a Forklift Certification?

A forklift certification is an official recognition that an individual has been trained and possesses the skills to operate a forklift. In the UK, forklift operator certifications can be accredited by ITSSAR, AITT, and RTITB. 
To gain a forklift certification, an individual must complete three separate tests: the forklift theory test, the practical test, and a pre-use check test. These tests will assess an individual’s ability to operate a forklift as a whole, including how to perform certain loading and unloading tasks, recall safety procedures, and identify workplace hazards, just to name a few.

The Forklift Theory Test

A forklift theory test is a crucial element of a forklift operator certification. Comprised of 25 questions, the test will have five open-ended questions and 20 multiple-choice questions that you must answer within 30 minutes. This exam is used to test an individual’s knowledge of forklift operation, safety procedures, and the relevant regulations surrounding forklifts. Some topics you may be assessed on include:

• Forklift Components
• Pre-Use Operational Checks
• Loading Handling Techniques
• Stability Principles
• Manoeuvring in Tight Spaces
• Operator Responsibilities
• Employer Responsibilities
• Proper Use of Controls and Instruments 
• Hazard Awareness 
• Emergency Procedures 

You must score a minimum of 80% to pass. However, if you fail there may be an opportunity to take a second attempt after remedial training. Although, this is dependent on the results of the first attempt, and is based on the instructor’s discretion.

Tips for Success in the Forklift Theory Test

If you are considering taking your forklift theory test soon, here are a few tips and tricks to point you in the right direction. 

1. Study, Study, Study

Just like your school exams or your driving theory exam, it is important you take the time to read up on the relevant material to ensure you have learned all the correct material. From safety regulations to hazard awareness, load handling techniques and more, creating a checklist of all the material you must cover can come in handy when planning what you need to know. By dedicating some time to studying and reviewing the material, you will have a greater chance of remembering the material ready for the exam. 

2. Manage Your Time Effectively 

Don’t cram it all in the night before! Make sure you set out enough time to slowly go through the material in depth so you actually understand the content rather than memorising it for the sake of it. You will find you remember the material more clearly when you actually understand it.

3. Try Using Some Sample Questions

Sample questions are a great way of getting to grips with the style of questions you will encounter in the exam. They allow you to test your understanding and become more familiar with the format of the test. Plus, these questions may even come up in your exam! 

4. Ask Your Instructor for Clarification Where Doubt Lies

If you have any questions or queries about the test, don’t hesitate to ask for further clarification. This will ensure that you fully understand what the questions are asking of you.

Forklift Theory Test: Sample Questions 

As sample questions are the best way to learn, here are some examples of the types of written questions you may encounter during your forklift theory exam. 

What is an Approved Code of Practice?

An approved code of practice advises duty holders on complying with legislation. This ensures a safe working environment for all staff, with forklift operators equipped with the knowledge and skills to handle a forklift. An example of an approved code of practice is the Health and Safety Executive, which encourages the safe operation of forklifts. 

Why is there an increased risk of a truck tipping forward when tilting a load forward at a height?

High reach trucks have a carriage tilt, and when a load is tilted forward, the combined centre of gravity also shifts forward, causing an increase in weight at the front of a forklift. This can increase the chance of injury to both the operator and other employees in the area. 

How do you proceed when forward visibility is obstructed or blocked?

When forward visibility is obstructed or blocked, you should drive in reverse if possible to maintain a clear view of the path. If reverse driving isn’t feasible, you should use a spotter to guide you. Once you have decided on how you will manoeuvre the forklift, you should then proceed slowly and cautiously. If there are any intersections or blind spots, you should use your horn. If possible, you should consider alternative routes that have better visibility. 

What should your first concern be as a forklift operator?

Before you start the forklift, you should first check that the forklift is in a safe and proper operating condition. By conducting a pre-use inspection of the forklift, you will be able to find any damage. You should then check the forklift when it is running. Depending on site policy and PPE availability, you can examine the tyres, oil, water and hydraulic fluid levels. The forks, brakes, lights, horn and steering wheel should also be checked before you begin operating. 

Pass Your Forklift Test with Ease with HL Training

Becoming a forklift operator doesn’t have to be hard. By setting time aside to study for your forklift theory exam, you can achieve your forklift certification in no time! At HL Training, we offer accredited Forklift Operator Training so you can gain the skills and knowledge to become a skilled forklift operator. From novices to refresher training, we have a training course for you! Take a look at our Forklift Operator Training today and get started on your journey to becoming a forklift operator.

FAQs

How many questions are on the forklift test?

There are 25 questions on the forklift theory test, all of which are now multiple-choice. You will have an hour to answer all of the questions. 

Is a forklift theory test hard?

A forklift theory test can be tough, but with an appropriate amount of studying, it doesn’t have to be. By taking the time to study, managing your time effectively and trying some sample questions before the day of your test, you can have the best chances of success! 

What’s involved in a forklift test?

To gain your forklift certification, you must pass a practical test, a theory test and a pre-use check test. The practical test assesses your ability to safely operate a forklift in a variety of situations. The theory test consists of 25 questions testing your knowledge of forklift operation. Finally, the pre-use check test ensures you follow the correct procedure of checking the forklift is fit for use before you begin operation.

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Do You Need a Forklift Licence? Spoiler: It Doesn’t Exist!

Like a normal driving test, for most people, the easiest part of gaining a forklift driving certification is the theory or written exam, not the practical driving test. Applying what you have learned from the theory to driving a forklift can be difficult. But with practice and a good knowledge of best practices, you can easily pass your practical forklift driving test and gain a forklift driving certification in no time. 

In this guide, we answer your burning questions from why you need a forklift driving certification to how the practical test is marked. Let’s look at how you should prepare for your forklift certification.

• Do I Need a Forklift Driving Certification?
• What Do I Need to Do to Gain a Forklift Driving Certification? 
• Forklift Driving Certification: The Written Exam 
• What Does the Practical Element of a Forklift Test Entail?
• Can You Fail a Forklift Test?
• Tips for Passing Your Practical Forklift Test
• Improve Your Chances of Gaining a Forklift Certification with HL Training 

Do I Need a Forklift Driving Certification?

It is an employer’s job to ensure all staff are trained to complete their jobs in a safe manner. This means businesses should ensure their employees obtain a forklift driving certification to equip their employees with the skills required to drive a forklift. Most companies also look for some form of forklift certification from an accredited body when they are looking to hire, so it is a good idea to gain a forklift certification when you can. 

What Do I Need to Do to Gain a Forklift Driving Certification? 

A forklift certification test is made up of three components: the written exam, the practical driving test and the pre-use check test. The written exam (or theoretical exam) ensures you have the knowledge to safely operate a forklift, including identifying hazards, how to lower and raise the forks with a load, and the correct way to maintain a forklift. The practical element is a driving test. This portion of the test requires you to put your theoretical knowledge to use and demonstrate how you would handle different situations. Finally, the pre-use check test assesses your ability to complete a visual inspection of the forklift and carry out the appropriate functional tests, such as testing the forks and brakes, before operating the truck. 

Once you have successfully completed both of these exams, you will receive a forklift driving certification. But it is not as easy as that. Passing both your written and practical exams will entail learning the content thoroughly and practising operating a forklift. To ensure you have the best chance of passing your forklift certification exams, you should choose a training provider that helps you through the learning process and exam. 

At HL Training, we offer a range of forklift operator training courses for various different forklift trucks. Why not take a look at our courses here?

Forklift Driving Certification: The Written Exam 

The written exam element of a forklift certification assesses your knowledge of different forklift operating topics. This includes but is not limited to: 

• Preventing Hazards and Dangers
• Correct Use of Alarms, Hazard Lights, and Horns 
• How to Lower and Raise the Fork Arms 
• How to Maintain a Forklift Truck 
• Refuelling and Recharging the Vehicles 
• And More…

What Does the Practical Element of a Forklift Test Entail?

The practical element of a forklift test requires you to demonstrate what you have learned from the theory component. This allows examiners to assess your ability to operate a forklift in real-life situations, ensuring you have the knowledge to drive a forklift truck safely. You will be asked to demonstrate some techniques during the practical test, such as:

• How to Make a Sharp or Right-Angle Turn in a Confined Space
• How to Position and Manoeuvre a Load Safely Onto the Fork Arms 
• Safely Manoeuvre a Load to a Second Location 
• How to Reverse a Forklift Truck Safely 
• Use the Brake and Put the Truck in a Standby Position 
• How to Securely Stack Loads

Forklift Operation Safety

A forklift driving test is not just about how you operate a forklift but also whether or not you follow safety procedures. You must ensure you demonstrate safety guidelines by:

• Wearing a Seatbelt 
• Using Turn Signals 
• Driving at Appropriate Speeds
• Carefully Handling Ramps and Other Obstacles 
• Safely Travelling Through Areas with Obstructed View 
• Ensuring the Safety of Pedestrians 

Can You Fail a Forklift Test?

Like a driving test for a car, you will be marked on how many faults you make. However, the points system is a little different. For a forklift driving test, there are different levels of penalty points. These are:

• Serious = 5 Points
• Mid-Range = 3 Points 
• Minor = 1 Point 

To pass, you must not gain more than 40 points. It must be noted that if you make 4 serious faults, you will automatically fail no matter how many points you have at that point. 

An examiner will judge you on various criteria, including your speed, observation skills, reaction times, use of the forklift correctly, awareness of potential hazards, and inspection of the forklift before operation. You may receive a point if you fail to meet the examiner’s expectations. 

Serious faults are usually more obvious. For example, you will receive a serious fault if you have poor judgment, do not secure the forklift correctly, or do any other actions that would compromise your safety or that of others. 

Tips for Passing Your Practical Forklift Test

Tests can be daunting, but with plenty of practice and revision, you can pass your forklift certification test. Here are a few tips you could use to ensure the best chance of success:

• Practice on the Course Set-Up: You could ask your examiner what the course set-up will be and if you can use that dedicated course to practice or ask your employer if you can create a similar set-up at your workplace. Remember, practice is key!
• You Should Always Wear Your Seatbelt: Just like when you are driving a car, you must always wear a seatbelt when operating a forklift! 
• Stay Focused and Concentrate at All Times: Mental preparation is just as important as revising. During your test, be aware of all your surroundings to avoid losing points on silly mistakes. 
• Don’t Forget to Use the Horn: This is a common mistake that you could avoid! When turning around blind spots or corners, you should ensure you are using your horn so that others around you are aware you are approaching. 
• Stay Calm: Above all else, when it comes to the day of the exam, you should try to stay calm. Of course, this is easier said than done, but staying calm will make sure you don’t make any avoidable mistakes and increase your chances of passing the exam. 

Improve Your Chances of Gaining a Forklift Certification with HL Training 

To increase your chances of passing the forklift test, you could opt to train with a training provider like us. At HL Training, we offer a range of forklift operator training courses that ensure your employees are well-equipped with the knowledge to operate forklifts safely. No matter how experienced your staff are or what type of forklift truck you require training in, we have a training course for you. Take a look at our forklift operator courses today, and get in touch if you have any questions. 

FAQs 

How hard is it to pass a forklift test?

Practical forklift tests are designed to be fairly difficult to ensure forklift operators are handling these large pieces of machinery safely. This is in the best interest of the forklift operators and other employees who work in the area. 

However, with the correct training and a good amount of practice, you can increase your chances of passing the forklift operator exam. Training from a provider such as HL Training ensures you have everything you need to complete the course successfully and gain your forklift operator certification. Take a look at all of our forklift operator courses today. 

What is the practical test for forklifts?

The practical element of a forklift operator test is used to assess your ability to put what you have learned from the theory element into practice. Some key areas you will be assessed on include:

• Safety Procedures 
• How to Make a Sharp or Right-Angle Turn in a Confined Space
• How to Position and Manoeuvre a Load Safely Onto the Fork Arms 
• Safely Manoeuvre a Load to a Second Location 
• How to Reverse a Forklift Truck Safely 
• Use the Brake and Put the Truck in a Standby Position 
• How to Securely Stack Loads

Can you fail the forklift test?

Yes, you can fail the forklift operator test. The practical component of the forklift exam is judged on a point-based system. You will receive points depending on how many faults you commit and the severity of them. You will fail the test if you gain over 40 points or commit three serious faults.  

How old do I have to be to take a forklift driving test?

You must be of school leaving age to be able to operate a forklift, however, you are not required to own a car driving license. 

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How Long Does Forklift Training Take?

It can be difficult to decide on which forklift training course to take. You may be inclined to choose the cheapest and shortest course since it will not only save you money but also time. However, by cutting corners, forklift operators may not be trained to a high standard and have the knowledge they need to work safely and efficiently. In our guide, we have listed the factors affecting why a forklift training course may be longer than you expect and things you should consider when choosing the right course for you. 

• Forklift Training Accreditation and Guidelines
• Forklift Training Course Structure 
• How Experience Affects Forklift Course Length
• Other Factors Affecting Forklift Course Duration
• Begin Your Forklift Training Today

Forklift Training Accreditation and Guidelines 

When choosing an accredited forklift training course, it is worth looking for a course that is accredited. By looking for a course that has training programmes accredited by the Accrediting Bodies Association, you can have the confidence that you and your fellow forklift operators are all trained to a high standard and in line with the L117 Approved Code of Practice for Rider Operated Lift Trucks (ACOP). 

Accrediting organisations for forklift training include the Road Transport Industry Training Board (RTITB), the Independent Training Standards Scheme and Register (ITSSAR), and the Association of Industrial Truck Trainers (AITT). 

Forklift Training Course Structure 

There are three different elements of training that must be completed to achieve accreditation for forklift operations. Completing these stages is essential to ensure trainee forklift operators are ready to work in a normal environment, guaranteeing the safety of other employees and maintaining productivity within the workforce. 

Basic Training

This level of training is the foundation for forklift operations. Basic training ensures the trainee forklift operator knows how to operate the forklift truck itself and any attachments that may also need to be used. Attachments can include clamps, buckets, and double pallet handlers. 

As this stage involves the trainee forklift operators developing a knowledge of the process of driving a forklift, this part of training should be conducted “off the job”. This means training is specifically to learn how to operate a forklift rather than how to use the forklift on the job. 

Specific Job Training 

Specific job training involves understanding the equipment forklift drivers will use whilst on the job and the procedures they must follow daily. This stage is specific to different businesses as it is tailored to how each individual business operates. 

This training would also be conducted “off the job”, as without completing training, the forklift trainee may disrupt the productivity and safety of other employees. 

Familiarisation Training 

This is the final level of training, as it entails putting together all the training so far and working “on the job”. Under close supervision, trainees will be tasked with everyday jobs to test whether they are able to complete their roles safely and efficiently. This final stage marks the end of training, acting as a gateway into the normal daily procedures of the workplace. 

Refresher Course 

If an experienced and trained forklift operator has not had training in a couple of years, it is recommended they partake in a forklift operator refresher course. This involves testing the forklift operator on their daily procedures and seeing if there are any issues in their performance. If there are any issues, the refresher course can help resolve any bad habits they might have developed over the years. 

How Experience Affects Forklift Course Length

The main factor that affects the length of a forklift training course is the level of experience the trainee has. From novice to conversion courses, the amount of training each trainee requires can differ by a few days. 

Novice In Forklift Operating

If a trainee is new to forklift operation, there is a lot of knowledge and practice they require. As this type of trainee is starting from scratch, all elements of forklift operation must be learned. From the theoretical aspects of training to the practical elements of driving, a new trainee will require approximately 3 to 5 days to become fully trained and qualified.

Experienced Forklift Driver

An experienced forklift driver can be classed as someone who knows how to drive a forklift and has had experience in driving a forklift but has no formal training. This type of trainee will already have the basic knowledge of forklift operation as they drive forklifts on a daily basis. This means they may complete the whole forklift operation course quicker than a new trainee as they already have the experience. Typically, an experienced forklift driver may take about 2 to 3 days to complete the whole forklift training course. 

Refresher Course

A refresher course is for experienced but formally trained forklift operators who may need to freshen up their knowledge of forklift operation. This course is primarily to remove any bad habits these forklift drivers may have acquired to ensure they are operating forklifts safely and to the standard required. Therefore, a typical refresher course should only take about one day to complete. 

Conversion Course

A conversion course is aimed at people who need to be trained in using a different forklift truck to the one they are used to. These trainees are experienced forklift drivers who are now required to use different vehicles. This means training can vary depending on the forklift the trainee can already operate and the new forklift truck they are required to operate. This means training can take anywhere from half a day to 5 days. 

Other Factors Affecting Forklift Course Duration

Aside from the type of course and trainee, other factors that can affect the length of a forklift training course can be the type of forklift truck a trainee is training to use and the type of training the company requires. 

Type of Forklift 

There are a variety of different forklift models that a trainee can be asked to operate. For example, a Powered Pallet Truck may take less training as it is simple to operate. Additionally, if the trainee is required to use any attachments during their daily tasks, this can add some time to the training course.

Company Preferences 

Alternatively, a company may prefer to have restricted training. This can mean training is limited to just basic training. By reducing the amount of training required, the length of the course can be shortened by over 4 days. 

This may mean less time and money is spent on training, but this also means forklift operators are not accredited, which can also impact insurance. Additionally, the safety of other employees may be compromised as trainees may not have a full understanding of the forklift they have been trained to operate. 

It is recommended a fully accredited forklift training course is offered by employers to ensure any employee who operates forklifts is trained to a high standard and the safety of other employees is not compromised. 

Begin Your Forklift Training Today

Are you wanting to become an accredited forklift operator and are interested in commencing your training? At HL Training, we provide accredited forklift operator courses to elevate the skills of you or your workforce. Our services include professional on-site and in-house training that is endorsed by leading accrediting bodies in the UK, such as RTITB. We offer training for a variety of forklift trucks, from counterbalance forklifts to order pickers. Get in touch with our team either by calling us at 0117 952 5625 or by completing our online form to embark on the journey of enhancing your skills today.

Forklift Course Length FAQs

How long does it take to do a forklift course?

There are various courses and factors that affect the length of a forklift training course. This includes the amount of experience you have, whether you require a refresher course, and the type of forklift you need training for. On average, for a novice forklift operator, it can take 3 to 5 days to complete training. 

How hard is it to get forklift certified?

It is not hard to get forklift certified if you follow and complete all the training required. By completing the full training course from basics to familiarisation, you can ensure you are able to operate a forklift safely without compromising others and productively to increase efficiency. 

How long does a UK forklift license last for?

There is no expiry date for a forklift license, but it is recommended by HSE that you “renew your license” every 3-5 years. To do this, HSE experienced forklift drivers should take a refresher course to ensure they are still operating a forklift to industry standard. Experienced forklift drivers who only have a certificate of basic training should also take a refresher course. If you are experienced forklift driver but have never taken a training course, then you will not be able to take a refresher course, but should instead undergo experienced forklift operator training.

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