Where to Get a Forklift License (Certification)?
Looking to get a forklift license (certification) in Canada? In this guide, we’ll walk you through the different training options, what kind of certification you need, and how to make sure you’re properly qualified to operate the equipment safely.
Looking to get a forklift license (certification) in Canada? In this guide, we’ll walk you through the different training options, what kind of certification you need, and how to make sure you’re properly qualified to operate the equipment safely.
Ready to get certified? Contact ForkliftHub today to book your forklift training and get certified quickly, safely, and affordably.
Forklift License
1. Forklift License vs. Forklift Certification
There is no government-issued, formal forklift license to obtain in Canada.
When people say they have a "forklift license," they're usually referring to forklift certification, but the two aren't exactly the same. There is no government-issued, formal forklift license to obtain in Canada, as there is for obtaining a vehicle operator's license, like you would need to drive a car. Businesses are legally required to hire trained and certified forklift operators who are capable of operating lift equipment safely.
What Employers Are Really Looking For
Employers aren’t asking for a plastic card from the government, they want proof of forklift certification from a trusted training provider. This certification shows that you’ve received proper instruction on how to safely operate the type of forklift you’ll be using.
Legal Requirements in Canada
Based on the Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety, employees must be trained and certified prior to taking up any powered lift equipment. Safe operation, hazard identification, equipment inspection, and proper procedures for mitigating risks on the work floor are taught through certification courses.
According to the Ontario government, a well-designed powered lift-truck safety program should cover all of the following legal requirements:
General safety inspection and maintenance
Assessment of load-handling capacity
Competence of the person doing the load-handling assessment
Inspection frequency
Recordkeeping
Operator competence
Operating procedures
Training
Contact ForkliftHub for trusted training and certify the right way.
2. How to Get Certified to Operate a Forklift
Getting hands-on practical training is an important part of getting a forklift license (certification).
Getting certified to operate a forklift is easy, but it must be done under a certified trainer or training company. The goal is to ensure that all operators are taught to use the equipment efficiently and safely in a workplace.
Step 1: In-Class Theory Training
Certification begins with classroom instruction or online learning modules. This part of the training covers safety regulations, forklift mechanics, load handling, and workplace hazards. Understanding these concepts is critical before getting behind the wheel.
Step 2: Hands-On Practical Training
After the theory portion, you’ll move on to hands-on training with a certified instructor. You’ll learn how to inspect the equipment, operate the controls, move loads, and navigate safely through various scenarios.
Step 3: Written and Driving Tests
To complete your certification, you'll be required to sit for a written test on theory and a driving test. These tests affirm that you can apply what you've learned and operate a forklift safely and effectively.
Certification Issued by Qualified Providers
Only licensed trainers or recognized training providers can issue a legitimate forklift certification. Verify that the organization is reputable and compliant with Canadian occupational health and safety laws.
When to Renew Your Certification
Forklift certification must typically be renewed every 2–3 years, as per provincial legislation and company policies. You may also need recertification from a change of locations, a change to another type or class of forklift, or having been involved in a safety accident.
Need certification? ForkliftHub offers assured, compliant forklift training courses.
3. Types of Forklift Training Courses Available
Forklift training isn’t one-size-fits-all. Depending on your experience, job site, and the type of equipment you’ll be using, different courses are available to meet your needs and ensure compliance with safety regulations. Below are some of the most common forklift training courses offered by ForkliftHub.
New Operator Training
This course is for new forklift operators.
It covers all topics, from forklift mechanics and safety protocols to driving practice.
New operators are taught equipment inspections, load lifting, and safe movement in a simulated classroom setting.
Refresher Training
Refresher training must be done at least once every three years, or sooner if an operator has been involved in a safety incident, near-miss, or if unsafe behaviour is observed.
Such training helps in the reinforcement of safe operating procedures and alerts operators to any regulatory change or equipment change.
Propane Cylinder Handling
For those who drive propane-powered forklifts, this additional training focuses on safe storage, replacement, and handling of propane cylinders.
It's an essential add-on for anyone driving internal combustion forklifts in warehouses or out of doors.
Learn more about our propane cylinder handling training or sign up for it here.
Pedestrian Awareness Training
This training teaches forklift operators and pedestrians how to safely share busy workplaces.
It focuses on communication, visual awareness, and safe practices to avoid accidents in shared spaces like warehouses, loading docks, and factory floors.
Learn more about this important training course or sign up here.
Explore ForkliftHub's entire collection of certified courses and select the best course for your needs.
4. Training Must Match the Equipment You’ll Use
You need to get trained on the specific class of forklift you are operating. - Image Source: Hangcha Canada
Not all forklifts are created equal, and neither is the training. Forklift certification means you need to get certified and trained on the very same class of forklift you will be driving. It's not best practice; it's actually mandated by Canadian occupational health and safety law.
Certification Is Class-Specific
If you're switching from one type of forklift category to another, i.e., from a counterbalance truck to a reach truck, you can't rely on your prior certification. You'll require additional training on the new equipment category.
Common Forklift Classes That Require Special Training:
Class I: Electric Motor Rider Trucks:
These are electric forklifts that are most frequently used in indoor spaces. They require training specific to battery charging and low-clearance operation.Class II: Electric Motor Narrow Aisle Trucks:
This type of forklift is used in confined spaces like warehouse aisles. These trucks need training in correct maneuvering and stability.Class III: Electric Motor Hand Trucks:
Pallet jacks and walk-behind forklifts fall under this class. Pedestrian safety and load handling in close proximity need to be learned by operators.Class IV & V: Internal Combustion Engine Trucks:
These gasoline, propane, or diesel-powered forklifts have cushion (Class IV) or pneumatic tires (Class V). Instruction includes fuel use and operating outdoors on rough terrain or indoors on smooth floors.Class VII: Rough Terrain Forklifts:
They are built for operation outdoors and construction, and run over uneven ground and heavy loads. Training should include slope operation and stability in rough terrain.
In need of training on a specific forklift brand? Contact ForkliftHub for certification with the proper course for your machinery.
5. Where to Get a Forklift License (Certification)
Some employers will train several employees at once.
While there is no "government-issued" forklift license, you do need proper forklift certification from a certified trainer. Don't panic, though; you have different flexible options through which you can get the skills required to drive a forklift safely.
Approved Training Centers
These are third-party accredited organizations that provide forklift operator training. They provide classroom theory and practical hands-on training. They also do the necessary testing and certification upon successful completion. Approved training facilities are ideal for independent candidates seeking certification.
On-Site Employer Training Programs
Some employers offer on-site forklift training by certified trainers. It is tailored to accommodate the specific workplace, equipment, and environment you will be working in. It is a useful option for companies needing to certify several workers at once. On-site training ensures operators are learning on the same equipment they will operate.
Online Forklift Theory Training
Online versions of the classroom learning for forklift training are provided by some training companies. The theory modules can be worked through at a participant's own convenience. It's a convenient and easily accessible option for tight schedules; however, keep in mind that practical hands-on training and testing need to be done face-to-face.
Why Choose ForkliftHub for Forklift Certification?
Certification is convenient, easy, and efficient with ForkliftHub. We connect you with expert trainers and provide flexible schedules to accommodate your needs. Whether you're a single individual in need of certification or an employer in need of certifying employees, we can help.
Experienced Professionals with Field Experience
We connect you with professional trainers with extensive real-world industry experience in your area. Our instructors are familiar with actual job site conditions and safety issues. You'll learn hands-on knowledge that is beyond the textbook.
Certification for All Types of Forklifts
ForkliftHub provides certification for all categories of forklifts. Whether you're driving a counterbalance, reach truck, or rough terrain forklift, we have you covered. Training is equipment-specific to the equipment you'll be operating.
Group and Individual Training Options
We offer flexible training options to accommodate your situation. Enroll in individual certification or arrange training for your entire crew. We make compliance easy for individuals and companies alike.
Convenience of On-Site and Off-Site Training
Choose the site where training is most convenient for you. We can bring trainers to your work location or arrange training at a convenient facility near you. This convenience saves time and gets operators trained at the location where they will operate.
*Disclaimer
This post is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or professional advice. Forklift certification requirements may vary by province, employer, and specific job site regulations. Always consult with your employer, local regulatory authorities, or a certified training provider to ensure compliance with current safety standards and legal requirements. ForkliftHub is not responsible for any liability or damages resulting from the use of this information.
Forklift Training Programs Toronto: Beginner, Advanced & Specialized Courses
Forklift Training Programs Toronto : Learn about the different course options available so you can choose the right program to advance your career and stay compliant with Ontario safety regulations.
Operating a forklift requires more than just skill; it demands proper training, certification, and a strong understanding of safety procedures. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the different course options available so you can choose the right program to advance your career and stay compliant with Ontario safety regulations.
Whether you're brand new to forklift operation, an experienced driver looking to refresh your certification, or someone seeking specialized skills like propane handling or pedestrian awareness, ForkliftHub.ca offers a variety of forklift training programs in Toronto to match your needs. Get in touch today to get started.
Forklift Training Programs Toronto
1. Why Forklift Training Is Essential in Toronto
Comply with Ontario Safety Standards
Forklift Training Programs Toronto: In Ontario that all forklift operators must be trained, tested, and certified by a competent instructor.
Toronto forklift operators are required to meet stringent safety standards laid out by the Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA) and the CSA B335-15 standard. The standards require all forklift operators to be duly trained and evaluated to enable the safe and competent operation of industrial lift trucks.
Certification Is a Legal Requirement
It is legally mandated in Ontario that all forklift operators be trained, tested, and certified by a competent instructor. Failure to comply can lead to fines for both the operator and his employer, as well as potential shutdowns in the event of a workplace inspection or accident.
Real-World Benefits of Certification
Qualified and trained forklift operators have fewer accidents, less damage to equipment and products, and help make the workplace a safer place. Proper training also improves job prospects and shows employers that you are dedicated to safety and professionalism. Confidence comes with knowledge, too. Trained operators feel more in control and better able to handle challenges at work.
2. Beginner Forklift Training Program
Who This Program Is For
This comprehensive program covers everything you need to know in order to safely and confidently drive a forklift.
The beginner forklift training program is designed for those who have minimal or no hands-on experience driving a forklift. If you're entering the job market or switching careers, this course is an excellent stepping block in learning safe and effective operation of a forklift.
What You'll Learn
This comprehensive program covers everything you need to know in order to safely and confidently drive a forklift. Here are some of the topics you will cover in this course:
How to recognize forklift hazards
How to recognize common workplace hazards and avoid unsafe practices
Knowledge of different forklift models
Various forklift models, including counterbalance, reach trucks, and pallet jacks, and how each works
Pre-Use Inspection Techniques
How to inspect your forklift properly before each shift to maintain it in a safe working condition
Rules of safety that all operators must know
Key safety protocols such as speed restrictions, load lifting, visibility, and right-of-way
Types of fuel used in forklifts
The differences between electric, propane, diesel, and gas forklifts, and how to utilize them safely
Balance and stability
You will also come away with a clear understanding of load center, weight distribution, and how to prevent tipping or falling loads.
Evaluation and Certification
In order to complete the program, you'll need to pass a written test and also a practical, hands-on evaluation. Once you've passed both, you'll receive a certification that meets Ontario's standards for safety and will be accepted by employers in Toronto and the GTA.
3. Advanced or Refresher Forklift Training Course
Who This Course Is For
Forklift Training Programs Toronto: A refresher course is a great opportunity ensure you're current with current safety standards and best practices.
The advanced or refresher forklift training course is ideal for:
Seasoned operators want to fine-tune their skills.
Employees whose certifications have lapsed and require renewal.
Operators who have transferred job locations or forklift types need to familiarize themselves with new environments or equipment.
It's a great opportunity to refresh your knowledge and ensure you're current with current safety standards and best practices.
What You’ll Learn
This course blends classroom instruction with practical hands-on training to reinforce key skills and safety protocols. You’ll review:
Safe driving practices
Operating procedures for different environments and load types
Proper forklift operation
Equipment controls, load handling, and how to operate efficiently and safely
Key safety policies and procedures
Updated regulations, hazard recognition, and how to respond to emergency situations
By practicing these necessary topic areas, you'll improve your on-the-job productivity and safety performance. Whether you originally trained with ForkliftHub or someone else, we can help you refresh your certification and meet regulations.
Who Needs to Refresh?
Under CSA B335-15, forklift operators must undergo refresher training every three years. Additionally, the Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA) requires your training records to include your name, date trained, trainer's name, and the type of forklift used. Staying up-to-date isn't just smart, it's required.
4. Propane Cylinder Handling Training
Who This Course Is For
If you work in a facility where forklifts run on propane this course is important to your safety and compliance.
This specialized training is designed for propane-fueled forklift operators. If you work in a facility where forklifts run on propane, such as a warehouse, factory, or distribution center, this course is important to your safety and compliance.
Why This Training Is Important
Propane misuse can lead to severe accidents, fires, or penalties. Propane is an extremely volatile gas, and we can all be in danger by mishandling it for just a fraction of a second. Preventing accidents and ensuring your workplace is safe and compliant is what this training does.
What You'll Learn
You will be taught to safely handle, inspect, and replace 33lb propane cylinders, which are found on forklifts. One of the central themes of the training is how to detect a leak in the cylinder, relying on your senses to find the danger:
Smell: Propane gives off a pungent, unpleasant smell that is recognizable.
Sound: Leaks usually make a clear hissing noise.
Sight: Frost or condensation can be seen forming around a leaking part of a cylinder.
In addition to leak detection, you will learn about:
Properly changing, connecting, and disconnecting propane tanks
Safe cylinder storage
Inspecting cylinders for damage or wear
What to do in an emergency
The safety rules you must follow and the consequences of not following them
How to wear and use protective gear, such as gloves and safety glasses
A Safer Workplace for Everyone
Propane-powered forklifts are common in factories, warehouses, and industrial facilities, making this course a necessity to prevent accidents and property damage. Taking this course will help ensure a safer, more responsible work site on your premises.
5. Pedestrian Awareness Training
Who This Course Is For
Pedestrian Awareness Forklift Training Programs Toronto: This training teaches you to stay safe and be seen
Pedestrian Awareness Training is designed to help everyone stay safe where forklifts are operating. It's not only for forklift operators, it's perfect for guests, office staff, sales staff, and any other workers who work with forklifts in warehouses, loading docks, or outside working areas.
Why This Training Matters
Did you realize that nearly 20% of forklift incidents involve pedestrians? In a busy workplace, it's easy to get struck by an approaching forklift or be in the blind spot. This training teaches you to stay safe and be seen, reducing the likelihood of injury to everyone in attendance.
What You'll Learn
In this course, you’ll gain practical knowledge on how to safely navigate areas where forklifts operate. Topics include:
Managing traffic in busy work areas
How to move through active zones while minimizing risk
Using proper safety equipment
The importance of visibility gear, such as hi-vis vests and safety footwear
Safe walking habits around forklifts
Know where it’s safe to walk, when to stop, and how to avoid blind spots.
Key Skills You’ll Develop
How to remain vigilant and aware of your environment at all times
How to keep a safe distance from moving forklifts
How to effectively communicate with forklift operators through eye contact, hand signals, or two-way radios
You will also learn how to spot warning signs and steer clear of common dangers like turning, reversing, or approaching from the rear in noisy surroundings.
This course is a great way to develop a safety culture at any company that has people and equipment working together side by side.
6. How to Choose the Right Training Program
Start by Assessing Your Experience
If you have no experience in operating a forklift, a new operator course is where you need to start.
Step one in choosing the correct forklift training program is to assess your own experience and level of certification realistically. If you have absolutely no experience at all in operating a forklift, a beginning course is where you need to start. If you have experience in operating a forklift but need to recertify or switch to a new environment, an advanced or refresher course would be necessary.
Consider Your Workplace and Job Responsibilities
Think about the type of workplace you're in and whether or not there are specialized requirements for training. For example, if you use propane-fueled forklifts, pedestrian safety, or repair tools when serviced, you may need to be certified further in those categories. Choosing training that is specific to your daily work helps ensure that you continue to meet your compliance requirements and feel confident in the workplace.
Ask the Right Questions
Before enrolling for any course, the quality of the training provider needs to be reviewed. Questions to ask:
Are the training courses CSA-compliant?
Training needs to be CSA Standard B335-15 compliant to guarantee adherence to Ontario legislation.
Do they use actual, hands-on equipment during training?
Practical training experience is the best way to build confidence and competence to work safely.
Are certifications employer-recognized?
Ensure that the certification is well recognized in all sectors in Toronto and the GTA.
Taking a moment to pose these questions will help you choose a program that's effective, efficient, and career-focused.
Why Choose ForkliftHub for Forklift Training in Toronto
A Trusted Local Provider
ForkliftHub is a trusted name in forklift training, offering a full range of programs for beginners, experienced operators, and specialized safety training. Whether you're starting your career or renewing your certification, we have a course designed to meet your needs.
Certified Instructors and Real-World Training
Our training is led by certified instructors with real industry experience. Every course combines classroom learning with hands-on practice, so you leave with practical skills you can use immediately. We also offer flexible scheduling to accommodate your work commitments and timelines.
Convenient Locations and On-Site Training Options
With multiple locations across the GTA, ForkliftHub makes it easy to access quality training close to home or work. For employers, we also offer on-site training options, so your team can get certified without disrupting operations.
Choosing ForkliftHub means choosing compliance, confidence, and career growth, all backed by local expertise and personalized support.
