If you are thinking about a career change and becoming a forklift truck driver, you may be wondering how long does it take to become a forklift truck driver? Here’s everything you need to know to help you on your way.
What is a forklift truck driver?
A forklift truck driver is a type of industrial truck driver that operates a forklift truck in a warehouse, factory, or other industrial settings. In the UK, there is no specific licensing or certification required to become a forklift truck driver. However, employers are required to ensure employees have adequate training before letting them loose with a forklift truck. By completing a forklift truck course and receiving the certificate confirming this, you are demonstrating to employers that you’ve received training.
The different types of training available
Training courses for different types of forklift truck generally take similar amounts of time, regardless of what type of forklift truck you are learning to handle. At Portland Training, we train learners to drive a counterbalance reach truck. Our basic forklift truck course lasts 5 days. We also offer a longer forklift truck and warehousing course. This course gives learners a well-rounded skillset to help them get employed in warehousing and logistics, and it takes 3 weeks to complete.
The length of time it takes to complete your training will also depend on your previous experience and qualifications. If you already have experience driving a forklift, then you may be able to take an accelerated training course which will allow you to obtain your licence more quickly. These courses typically last around 2 days.
At Portland Training, we use a combination of classroom-based and practical training. In the classroom, you learn vital skills such as writing accident reports, calculating load capacities and analysis of specific problems related to the job role. You’ll also receive knowledge on employability and progression. After this, you receive hands-on training driving the forklift in our forklift maze!
Once you have obtained your licence, you will then be able to start work as a forklift truck driver. We can’t give a guaranteed time frame between getting qualified and getting hired. However, the vast majority of our forklift learners find work soon after.
How to find a job as a forklift truck driver
You can search for these types of jobs online, in newspapers, or through job-search websites. When you find a job that interests you, be sure to apply and include your forklift truck license information.
If you took your training with Portland Training, we will also help you with securing a job. We leverage our industry connections to set up learners with employers near them!
The benefits of being a forklift truck driver
There are many benefits to being a forklift truck driver in the UK. One of the biggest benefits is the salary. Forklift truck drivers in the UK make an average salary of £23,400 per year, and experienced drivers can make up to £31,200 per year.
Another big benefit is the job security. The demand for forklift truck drivers is always high, and there are very few people who leave the profession each year. This means that if you are a forklift truck driver, you can be sure that you will always have a job.
Did we mention? If you’re on Universal Credit and live in an eligible postcode, FLT Training with Portland Training won’t cost you a penny! Get in touch today to register for an FLT course with us.
Conclusion
To become a qualified forklift truck driver in the UK, you will need to complete a Forklift Truck Driving Course. The length of the course will depend on your prior experience and the type of certification you are looking for. However, on average, it takes around 5 days to complete the training.
