The handling of industrial trucks – colloquially most often called “forklift” or “stapler” – is part of daily life in many companies. At the same time it is associated with special requirements for safety, technical understanding and legal framework conditions. Whoever wants to operate a forklift needs more than just practical skill: they must know how to avoid hazards, comply with regulations and operate the devices correctly.
Nevertheless there is often uncertainty around the so-called “forklift license”:
What qualifications exist actually? Who may train and examine? How does a training run, and what does it cost? What happens if you lose the driving license or change employer? And is it worth obtaining the license on your own initiative?
As a trainer and driver-training officer at the forklift manufacturer Jungheinrich I daily experience how large the information need is in this area – both for companies that want to employ forklift drivers and for individuals striving for qualification. With this questions-and-answers guide I want to provide orientation, dispel misunderstandings and explain practically what matters.
The following answers are based on the DGUV regulations (German Social Accident Insurance), my many years of experience in driver training and the feedback of countless participants. The aim is to create clarity – for everyone who wants to work with industrial trucks safely, in compliance with the law and efficiently.
I wish you good success in your qualification and always a safe journey.
Daniel GieseTrainer & Driver-Training OfficerJungheinrich AG
Table of contents:
Foundations of the forklift license
- What is the forklift license officially called?
- What license is needed for a forklift?
- Why the distinction into levels 1 to 3?
- What licenses besides Level 1 exist?
- Who can issue an official forklift license?
- How and why does DGUV come into play?
Prerequisites & Admission
- Can everyone obtain a forklift license?
- How are these requirements checked or documented and what happens if health deteriorates later?
Training & Instruction
- Why is instruction necessary and what does this instruction look like?
- What does a typical forklift training look like?
- What else is needed besides the forklift license before you may operate a forklift?
- How must the instruction be documented?
- Exkurs: What is the adequate safety equipment for the operator of an industrial truck?
Examination & Learning Content
- How long does the forklift license take?
- How does the practical part proceed?
- What do typical examination questions look like?
- What examination questions are there for the forklift license?
- How many questions are there on the forklift license?
- Are there grades on the forklift license?
- Can you fail a forklift license?
- What is the most common reason people fail the forklift license?
- Do you also have to study at home or is everything taught in the class sessions?
- Is the forklift license hard to obtain?
Implementation & Providers
- Are there differences in the quality of training or is it comparable?
- Are the questions or exams the same across all providers?
- Do you have to go to the training provider’s premises or can this also be conducted at the workplace?
- Can the exam be taken online?
Costs & Financing
- How much does a forklift license cost?
- Who pays for the forklift license?
- How can you obtain funding through the Jobcenter?
After the Training
- I have a Level 1 forklift license. How can I further educate myself / qualify further?
- What happens if the forklift driver changes employer?
- Should one pursue a forklift license on one's own initiative to improve job chances?
- Which forklifts may be driven without a forklift license?
- Are there weight or performance limits?
Administration & Validity
- Is the forklift license entered in the driving license?
- Is the forklift license registered?
- When must you present a forklift license?
- Can the forklift license be revoked?
- What do you do if you lose the forklift license as a document?
Definition & Summary
- Definition of terms: Training for forklift operators
Which license is required for operating a forklift?
The operators require an industrial truck driving license Level 1. They must be appropriately and equipment-specific instructed as well as given in writing. Details are governed by DGUV Regulation 68 §7 Abs. 1 and the DGUV Guideline 308-001 Abs. 2.1. Jungheinrich, for example, offers in such cases a DGUV-compliant, theoretical and practical qualification for forklift operators.
↑ back to index ↑
What licenses besides Level 1 exist?
The qualification is structured according to DGUV Guideline 308-001 into three levels: Level 1: General Qualification, Level 2: Add-On Qualification, Level 3: Operational Qualification
Level 1: General Qualification: It conveys general fundamentals and basic knowledge about industrial trucks, legal framework, accident prevention and general safety rules. Its goal is to create an understanding of hazards and responsibilities in handling industrial trucks.
- Basic training for persons with and without prior experience.
- Theory + practical with examination.
- Usually conducted on a classic front-end forklift.
Level 2: Add-On Qualification: It is necessary when special devices or operating concepts are used. Topics include particular risks and use areas. The Jungheinrich EKX 5 series, for example, is a typical example of a complex system device that is frequently used at customers’ warehouses or production environments. We as the manufacturer offer on-site training at the customer, directly at the device in use and under real conditions. Alternatively, there are also trainings at company-owned sites with identical or similar devices to prepare for deployment at the customer.
- For specialized industrial trucks or special attachments. Examples: reach trucks, counterbalance trucks, pallet truck with lifting operator station, order-picking devices with liftable operator platform, truck-mounted forklifts.
- Theory + practical with examination.
- Contents and duration depend on device type and application area, e.g., high-bay storage
Level 3: Operational Qualification: It ensures that the operator can safely handle the specific device in operation. Described is the briefing on
a concrete device or the actual deployment device in operation under real conditions.
- Device-specific briefing in operation.
- Behavioral instruction (e.g., hazards, operating procedures).
- Usually no examination, but documentation obligation.
↑ back to index ↑
I have a Level 1 forklift license. How can I further educate myself / qualify further?
Another qualification is required if in the future particular device types are to be operated. It is targeted, practical, and relatively compact. It expands deployment possibilities and is linked to specific vehicle types. A self-directed qualification is not wrong per se, but in many cases these Level-2 trainings are carried out on-site in companies. Therefore such a measure, driven by personal motivation and without a concrete deployment area or company need, is rather uncommon. It shows personal commitment but practically initially yields no benefit.
↑ back to index ↑
Why the distinction into levels 1 to 3?
The distinction serves safety and legal compliance: Levels 1 and 2 ensure that the holder of the certificate knows both the general, legal and safety basics and the device-specific requirements and thus, ideally, what they may and may not do when handling industrial trucks. The benefit for the employer is: documented proof that the employee knows the basic requirements and has been trained for certain device types. This is important for legal protection and deployment planning; and, if applicable, also for risk assessment.
↑ back to index ↑
Why is instruction necessary and what does this instruction look like?
Instructions are duties under the Occupational Safety Act, BetrSichV and DGUV regulations that must be fulfilled to prove that employees were not only generally but also device-specifically and practically instructed. The instruction is part of the company qualification (Level 3) and consists of two parts. First, the device-related part: here the operation of the concrete device in operation is the focus. Secondly, the behavioral part. This ensures the connection to operating instructions, traffic routes and hazards in the facility. With the clear aim of avoiding accidents, because different devices, different operation sites carry different risks.
↑ back to index ↑
How and why does DGUV come into play?
The DGUV is responsible for prevention. It issues binding regulations and principles. Those who do not comply risk not only the safety of their employees but also the loss of insurance coverage. In case of a workplace accident, the Berufsgenossenschaft may reduce or even deny benefits. For companies, claims for damages can be the result.
↑ back to index ↑
What is the forklift license officially called?
After successfully completing Level 1 qualification, i.e., passing the theory and practical exams, a qualification certificate and a “Driving license for industrial trucks” are issued. This is also the official designation of the document “forklift license.”
↑ back to index ↑
Who can issue an official forklift license?
An official “forklift license” can be issued by anyone who works as a qualified trainer for forklift operators. They must themselves be demonstrably qualified as an operator, have at least two years of practical experience, hold a master craftsman qualification or comparable (DQR level 5) as well as successful participation in a course for instructors of forklift operators, or have completed a special instructor training. Providers can be:
- the professional associations
- independent training providers (manufacturers of industrial trucks, TÜV, Dekra, etc.)
- company-based instructors, provided they meet the DGUV requirements
- driving schools specializing in industrial trucks
↑ back to index ↑
Are there differences in the quality of training or is it comparable?
Yes, there are differences. Although all providers should adhere to the DGUV Guideline 308-001, the quality depends strongly on: whether the trainer has sufficient experience, didactic skills and, of course, technical expertise; how high the practical portion and equipment are (e.g., modern devices, realistic training areas); how the supervision and follow-up by the trainers are; whether trainings are tailored to customer-specific content or more standardized. Reputable providers should have comparable content, but the quality of delivery can still vary significantly.
↑ back to index ↑
Are the questions or examinations the same across all providers?
No, while they largely derive from the training contents, providers are free in how they formulate questions. The theoretical exam typically consists of a multiple-choice test with about 50 questions and must be taken in writing.
↑ back to index ↑
Must you go to the training provider’s premises or can this be done at the workplace?
A training can also be conducted directly at the workplace. The advantage is practical alignment with the company’s conditions and reduced travel time.
Trainings at academies etc. are more common for individual needs and in mixed groups. Also the annual safety briefing can be conducted externally or at the workplace if needed
↑ back to index ↑
Can the exam be taken online?
Yes and no. The practical exam part must be attended in person in any case; simulators are currently not permitted. The theoretical exam can be taken online if certain prerequisites are met: this includes a reliable identity check and its verification, time limits, and explanation of rights and duties as well as possible attempts at deception and their consequences. Oral questions during the practical exam may also be used.
↑ back to index ↑
What else do you need besides the forklift license before you may operate a forklift?
Besides the forklift license, the following prerequisites are mandatory: minimum age 18, mental, physical, and character suitability – which can be established by a voluntary occupational medical examination (formerly known as G25). The occupational medical examination becomes mandatory for employees if a GfB has shown that the activities require a preventive examination.
↑ back to index ↑
Should one pursue a forklift license on one's own initiative to improve job chances?
A forklift license can increase chances of employment; however, there is no guarantee it will lead to a job. In areas such as warehousing, logistics, production, and forwarding it is often a mandatory prerequisite. Applicants who are already qualified save the new employer time and costs for training and onboarding can begin earlier.
↑ back to index ↑
Is the forklift license entered in the driving license?
No! The forklift license is not entered in the driving license, as they are two completely different types of permissions subject to different legal regulations.
↑ back to index ↑
What do you do if you lose the forklift license as a document?
Ideally you contact the institution where the training/qualification was completed. If the measure is not too far past (observe statutory retention periods), a duplicate can generally be issued. An replacement document can only be issued if the training certificate or the certificate is still available or can be proven. Without this evidence, it is not possible since the forklift license is not an official document but a qualification certificate. If also the evidence (certificate) of the qualification is lost, the necessary qualifications must be fully repeated. In addition, the replacement document may only be issued if the training certificate or the certificate is still available or can be proven. Without this proof it is not possible, as the forklift license is not an official document but a qualification certificate. If the proof (certificate) of the qualification is also lost, the necessary qualifications must be fully repeated.
↑ back to index ↑
What happens if the forklift driver changes employer?
In terms of content, nothing changes at first; you change the employer. The forklift license (driving license for industrial trucks) is generally valid for life in Germany, provided the training was conducted according to DGUV Guideline 308-001. Some companies, however, require new employees to qualify again. This means that the new employer does not automatically have to take over or recognize the qualification. The reasons can be manifold, ranging from corporate preferences and internal standards to doubts about the quality of the previous training.
↑ back to index ↑
Which forklifts can you drive without a forklift license?
Operators of pedestrian-flurförderzeuge (walk-behind industrial trucks) with a driver’s seat platform whose maximum speed is 6 km/h do not require a driving license. They must be appropriately and device-specific instructed and commissioned. Jungheinrich offers DGUV-compliant instruction for industrial trucks for such cases.
↑ back to index ↑
Are there weight or performance limits?
Yes, there are technically defined limits that must be observed: Each industrial truck has a maximum load capacity. It is stated on the factory plate/type plate and in the load diagram. The total weight of the industrial truck can also be read from the type plate. Exceptions where no forklift license is required are not directly tied to weight or performance—as is the case with a car driving license.
↑ back to index ↑
How must the instruction be documented?
An instruction must be traceable, i.e. usually written, documented and cover essential points such as: device type and deployment area, date and duration of the instruction. The name of the instructor and the person instructed are also important. Also important: contents of the instruction such as safety rules, traffic routes and attachments. A casual “you’re allowed to drive this, you can lift and lower, you know the rest like with any other forklift” is not an instruction and would be considered deficient. With both signatures, the instruction is auditable.
↑ back to index ↑
Exkurs: What is the adequate safety equipment for the operator of an industrial truck?
For industrial trucks, task-related personal protective equipment (PPE) is always required. This includes safety shoes with toe protection (usually mandatory, no known exceptions). Additionally, warning clothing (e.g., in mixed traffic with pedestrians in the warehouse), a safety helmet (if there is a risk of falling loads) or hearing protection (if noise levels are high in the work area) may be required. In addition to hearing protection, the Noise and Vibration Occupational Protection Regulation (LärmVibrationsArbSchV), DGUV Regulation 112-194 “Use of Hearing Protection” and DGUV Information 209-023 “Noise at the Workplace” should be considered.
↑ back to index ↑
Is the forklift license registered?
A forklift license is not centrally registered in Germany. There is no official or nationwide register in which holders of forklift licenses are recorded as there is, for example, with a driving license.
↑ back to index ↑
When must you present a forklift license?
This may be required during recruitment or internal transfer if the job involves operating industrial trucks or requires it. Another example might be during safety inspections or audits. It can also occur that, after an accident or near miss, the driver’s qualification must be demonstrated. When new devices are introduced, the employer will check whether an additional qualification (Level 2) is required.
↑ back to index ↑
Can the forklift license be revoked from you?
The forklift license itself is valid for life and cannot be formally revoked. However: the driving authorization, the assignment to drive in the company, can be revoked. This can be justified by lack of driving practice, safety-relevant incidents such as gross negligence or repeated violations. Also if the operator is no longer physically or mentally fit to drive.
↑ back to index ↑
Can everyone obtain a forklift license?
In principle, qualification to operate industrial trucks is open to all persons. However, meeting certain personal and health requirements is a prerequisite. A minimum age of 18 years (exception: minimum age 16 years, youths in vocational training under supervision) and physical suitability are required. In particular, adequate visual acuity, peripheral vision, spatial vision, hearing ability, limb mobility
and good reaction time are important. Wearing glasses, a hearing aid or other assistive devices is not in itself an exclusion criterion. In addition, personal qualities such as sense of responsibility, reliability, character and mental fitness as well as reading skills are desirable.
↑ back to index ↑
How are these requirements checked or documented and what happens if health deteriorates later?
Both questions can be titled under “self-responsibility.” In principle, health limitations should be reported honestly and responsibly. Especially for activities where you could endanger yourself or others – e.g., alcohol, drugs and medications. A limitation of any kind does not automatically lead to exclusion. If there are signs of health problems, employers can offer a medical examination at recruitment or when changing tasks. If a risk assessment or differentiated regulations do not define otherwise, a corresponding medical examination offer in a company should be treated as voluntary for employees. Motivations for occupational medical preventive care are set out in the Appendix of the Occupational Medical Precautions Ordinance (ArbMedVV) and should ideally be carried out by a company physician.
↑ back to index ↑
How much does a forklift license cost?
Costs vary by provider and range from 350 euros to 450 euros. Regional differences, training formats and/or particular vehicle types can cause price variations.
↑ back to index ↑
Who pays for the forklift license?
This depends on the individual situation. Option 1: the employer bears the costs; usually the most common case. Option 2: personal initiative. Option 3: the Jobcenter or employment agency covers the costs.
↑ back to index ↑
How can you obtain funding from the Jobcenter?
The Jobcenter should be consulted to determine whether support is available or can be claimed.
↑ back to index ↑
How long does the forklift license take?
The duration for a forklift license is typically at least two days. It includes a theoretical and a practical part. According to DGUV Guideline 308-001, at least ten instructional units of 45 minutes should cover the theory. The practical part should comprise an additional ten to 22 instructional units.
↑ back to index ↑
Is the forklift license hard to obtain?
A forklift license is generally considered reasonably achievable and is not particularly difficult compared to obtaining a car driving license.
↑ back to index ↑
What do typical exam questions look like?
Typical questions might be: When must the safety check be carried out? Or: May a forklift be left near a fire exit?
↑ back to index ↑
How does the practical part proceed?
The practical exam lasts about 20 to 30 minutes and essentially covers picking up and setting down loads, driving through a course, and safely parking a forklift.
↑ back to index ↑
What does a typical forklift training look like?
Depending on the provider, the duration of the training can vary. For example, in a face-to-face training: Day 1 (maybe Day 2) Theory (legal basics, structure and function of industrial trucks, safety regulations. Day 2 (maybe Day 3, etc.): Practical exercises with the forklift.
↑ back to index ↑
Can you fail a forklift license?
Yes, you can fail a forklift license. Both the theoretical and practical exam must be passed to obtain the forklift license.
↑ back to index ↑
What is more difficult – the practical or the theoretical part?
The degree of difficulty is perceived very differently and is highly individual. It depends on many factors and is more a subjective feeling than an objective measure. In addition to stress and exam anxiety, language also has a noticeable influence, especially in the theoretical exam. Those who do not speak or understand German well may have difficulty interpreting the questions correctly. Even if some institutes offer the exam in other languages (e.g., English, Turkish, Polish, Arabic), there remains the perception that it is difficult. Terms like load center of gravity, remaining load capacity, or stability are technically complex. Even in one's mother tongue they are new for many; in a foreign language they seem even more abstract. A translation can help but does not replace understanding of the content and can sometimes be misleading. Language is very diverse, especially dialects can pose a hurdle to a proper translation. Therefore, a foreign-language offering is not available everywhere.
↑ back to index ↑
What is the most common reason people fail the forklift license?
Language barriers are, besides stress and exam anxiety, one of the most common reasons for not passing the theory exam. However, this statement is not representative but a subjective assessment based on personal training and conversations with trainer colleagues.
↑ back to index ↑
What exam questions are there for the forklift license?
The exam questions for the forklift license are usually designed as multiple-choice questions. They cover various topics such as safety, technology, operation and legal regulations.
↑ back to index ↑
Do you have to study at home or is everything taught in the teaching units?
In general, all exam-relevant content is taught during the training. An exception may occur if the theoretical exam is not passed. In that case, you should work through the provided training materials at home.
↑ back to index ↑
How many questions are there on the forklift license?
The theoretical exam comprises about 30 to 60 questions, of which typically 80 percent must be answered correctly.
↑ back to index ↑
Are there grades on the forklift license?
No! (the B grade may have minor deductions ;)))
↑ back to index ↑
Definition of terms: Training for forklift operators
The training for forklift operators is not a traditional vocational training in the sense of an approved training framework. Rather, it is a qualification measure, an operator qualification.
↑ back
