Taking forklift training: process, providers and fast-track course

Anyone who wants to take forklift training usually goes through the same structured process - regardless of whether the course is taken at TUV, at Dekra, at a manufacturer academy or at a regional training centre:

Step 1 - Check the requirements Minimum age 18, physical fitness (sight and hearing), if applicable a medical fitness examination by the occupational physician. Anyone who already has experience with industrial trucks should check in advance whether a one-day course is an option.

Step 2 - Choose provider and course format Depending on prior experience, time frame and budget, choose between a standard course (2 days), a one-day course (1 day, for experienced operators) and in-house training (group). Weigh up supra-regional providers against regional training centres.

Step 3 - Enrol and submit documents Enrol directly with the provider, usually online or by phone. Documents required: identity card, if applicable a medical examination certificate, if applicable a cost coverage declaration from the employer or proof of support from the public employment service.

Step 4 - Complete the course Theoretical and practical training in line with applicable Belgian safety rules. Concludes with a two-part exam (theory + practice).

Step 5 - Authorisation in the company After passing, the employer should issue a written authorisation. The employer remains responsible for ensuring that only trained and designated employees operate the forklift - even if they hold a certificate.

There are four main types of training provider offering forklift training:

Supra-regional certification bodies (Dekra, TUV Rheinland) Advantage: high profile, well-accepted certificate, nationwide course network. Disadvantage: prices tend to be higher, less flexibility for tailored solutions.

Manufacturer academies (Jungheinrich Akademie, Still Academy, Linde Training Center) Advantage: machine-specific know-how, ideal if you have your own fleet from the manufacturer. Disadvantage: limited locations, courses often geared to their own vehicle types.

Regional training centres (regional and sector training centres, accredited training providers) Advantage: courses close to home, often lower prices, more flexible course times. Disadvantage: quality differs between providers.

In-house training at the employer Advantage: course tailored to the company's specific conditions, no travel. Disadvantage: minimum group size required (typically 6-10 people), own practice area needed.

One-day course (fast track, 1 day) Suitable for: people with at least 1-2 years of practical experience with forklifts. Not suitable for: beginners without experience - covering the theory in one day is hardly possible without basic knowledge. Cost: 150-350 euros.

Standard course (2 days) Suitable for: all beginners, career changers and people without formal proof. Schedule: day 1 theory + first practical exercises, day 2 practical training + final exam. Cost: 250-550 euros.

Multi-day course (3-5 days, incl. level 2) Suitable for: people who want to obtain a specialist qualification for reach trucks, side loaders or telehandlers straight away. Cost: 400-800 euros.

This checklist helps you assess course providers:

• Recognition: Is the provider recognised under applicable Belgian rules?
• Practical share: How many hours of practical exercises are included? A practical share of at least 50 % is advisable.
• Vehicle types: Is training carried out on the type of forklift used in the company?
• Group size: How many participants per course? Smaller groups (4-8 people) allow more individual practice time.
• Course times: Day or evening courses? Flexibility for shift workers?
• Price included: Are the exam fee, materials and issue of the certificate included?

The following documents are usually required when enrolling for forklift training:

• Valid identity card or passport
• Medical fitness examination certificate (if required by the employer)
• Cost coverage declaration from the employer (if funded by the employer)
• Proof of support from the public employment service (for subsidised training)
• If applicable, proof of prior experience (when enrolling for a one-day course)

Enrolment is usually by online form, phone or e-mail. Many providers have short waiting lists - register planned training in good time.

Where can I take forklift training?

Courses are offered throughout Belgium by Dekra, TUV Rheinland, Jungheinrich Akademie, Still Academy, regional and sector training centres and other accredited providers. Online course finders and the websites of the providers mentioned allow a search by location.

Can forklift training be done in one day?

Yes - provided the provider offers a one-day course and your prior experience is sufficient. For beginners without experience, the 2-day standard course is recommended.

Can the company hold the training in-house?

Yes, provided an accredited external training provider delivers the training and the company provides a suitable practice area and the appropriate vehicles. In-house training makes economic sense for groups of 6-10 people or more.

What do I need to bring for enrolment?

Identity card, if applicable a medical examination certificate and - depending on the funding route - a cost coverage declaration from the employer or proof of support from the public employment service. For one-day courses, prior experience sometimes has to be proven.

After the training, Luibl Rental provides the right machine for you - with delivery throughout Belgium, available at short notice.

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