Get a Forklift Licence
Everything You Need to Know About Getting Certified in the UK
Whether you are looking to start a career in warehousing, logistics, or construction – or your employer has asked you to get certified – this page explains everything you need to know about getting a forklift licence in the UK. At Result, we make the process straightforward, affordable, and as fast as possible without cutting corners.
What Is a Forklift Licence?
A forklift licence – also referred to as a forklift certificate or operator card – is a nationally recognised qualification that certifies you to safely operate a forklift truck in the workplace. In the UK, the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) requires that all forklift operators are adequately trained and hold a relevant certification before operating a truck.
Unlike a driving licence, there is no single government-issued forklift licence. Instead, certification is issued by accredited training bodies such as RTITB and NPORS. Result is accredited by both, meaning the certificates we issue are recognised by employers across every major industry in the UK.
Do You Need a Forklift Licence by Law?
RTITB vs NPORS - Which Licence Do You Need?
How to Get a Forklift Licence - Step by Step
Getting a forklift licence with Result is a straightforward process. Here is exactly what to expect from start to finish:
Choose Your Course
Select the type of forklift you need to be certified on – counterbalance, reach truck, telehandler, PPT, or another truck type. Not sure? Our team will advise you.
Book Your Training
Contact us by phone, email, or via our online booking form. We will confirm your date and send you all the pre-course information you need.
Complete Your Theory Training
On your first day, you will cover the theory element of the course – relevant health and safety legislation, pre-use inspection procedures, load awareness, and safe operating practices.
Complete Your Practical Training
The majority of your training is hands-on, operating real equipment at our Peterborough training centre or at your workplace if you have chosen onsite training.
Pass Your Assessment
At the end of your course, you will complete a theory test and a practical assessment. Our 98% first-time pass rate means the vast majority of our candidates pass first time.
Receive Your Certificate
Once you pass, you will receive your RTITB or NPORS certificate and photo ID card – valid and nationally recognised from day one.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Forklift Licence?
Courses Available
Forklift Licence Types Available at Result
Why Get Your Forklift Licence With Result?
There are plenty of forklift training providers in the UK. Here is why thousands of candidates choose Result.
RTITB & NPORS Accredited
dual accreditation means your certificate is accepted by the widest range of UK employers
98% First-Time Pass Rate
expert instructors and small group sizes deliver results
Flexible Scheduling
7 days a week, 8am to 8pm, including weekends
Onsite Delivery
Peterborough training centre and nationwide onsite delivery
Price Beat Guarantee
Find it cheaper and we will match it
Questions & Answers
Yes. Under the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 and PUWER 1998, all forklift operators must be adequately trained and certified before operating a truck. Operating without certification is a legal offence and can result in serious consequences for both the operator and employer.
RTITB is the most widely recognised accreditation in warehousing, logistics, and distribution. NPORS is widely recognised in construction and plant operation. Result is accredited by both, so we can issue whichever certificate your employer requires. Not sure which you need? Call us on 01733 665 662 and we will advise.
It depends on your experience level. A complete novice counterbalance course typically takes 3 to 5 days. Refresher courses can be completed in 1 day. Semi-experienced courses take 2 to 3 days. We will assess your experience before training begins to ensure you are placed on the right course.
Costs vary depending on the course type and your experience level. Contact us on 01733 665 662 or fill in our booking form for a personalised quote. We also offer a Price Beat Guarantee - find the same course cheaper elsewhere and we will match it.
Yes. All certificates issued by Result are accredited by RTITB or NPORS - both nationally recognised across the UK. Unlike in-house company licences, your Result certificate holds value with any employer in any region.