Getting a forklift certificate: process, providers and crash course

Anyone wanting to get a forklift certificate usually follows the same structured process – regardless of whether the course is taken with TUV, Dekra, a manufacturer academy or a regional training provider:

Step 1 – Check the requirements Minimum age 18, physical fitness (sight and hearing), a medical assessment with the company doctor if required. Anyone with experience of industrial trucks checks 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 national providers against regional training providers.

Step 3 – Register and submit documents Register directly with the provider, usually online or by phone. Documents required: proof of identity, a medical assessment statement if applicable, an employer's declaration of cost coverage if applicable.

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

Step 5 – Designation in the company After passing the exam, the employer designates the employee in writing. The employer remains responsible for the demonstrable competence of the forklift operator – a certificate on its own is not sufficient for this.

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

National inspection bodies (such as Dekra and TUV) Advantage: well known, widely 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 knowledge, ideal if you run your own fleet from that manufacturer. Disadvantage: limited locations, courses often focused on their own vehicle types.

Regional training providers (regional training centres and industry training providers) Advantage: courses close by, often lower prices, more flexible course times. Disadvantage: quality varies between providers.

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

One-day course (crash course, 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. type-specific add-on) Suitable for: people who want to gain 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 or certified for training in line with applicable Dutch health and safety rules?
• Practical share: How many hours of practical exercises are included? At least 50 % practical content is advisable.
• Vehicle types: Is training done 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 includes: Are the exam fee, materials and issue of the certificate included?

The following documents are usually required when registering for a forklift certificate course:

• Valid identity card or passport
• Medical assessment statement (if required by the employer)
• Employer's declaration of cost coverage (if funded by the employer)
• Proof of a training scheme (for supported training)
• Proof of prior experience if applicable (when registering for a one-day course)

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

Where can I get a forklift certificate?

Courses are offered throughout the Netherlands by inspection bodies such as Dekra and TUV, the Jungheinrich Akademie, the Still Academy and regional training providers. National course finder portals and the websites of these providers allow you to search by location.

Can you get a forklift certificate 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 run the training in-house?

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

What do I need to bring when registering?

Proof of identity, a medical assessment statement if applicable and – depending on the funding – an employer's declaration of cost coverage or proof of a training scheme. For one-day courses, prior experience sometimes has to be demonstrated.

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

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