The forklift certificate or operator card that you received after successfully taking the training course is your solid proof that you had undergone such training.
They called it a forklift license.
Operators and employers refer to it as such. It is, in fact, a document of certification in the safe operation of the forklift truck. Everyone called it a forklift license because it is similar to a motor vehicle license. (I will just call to it as a forklift license as well throughout this article)
It is a card that can be fit in your wallet, you need this every time you operate a forklift.
What if you have lost yours and what to do then to replace it?
In the United States, OSHA requires all operators to undergo classroom training, hands-on practice and evaluation in order to obtain their certification in compliance with the Regulation 29 CFR 1970.178 Powered Industrial Truck, however, there is no provision about the reissuance of lost forklift license.
If you lost your certificate, it can be replaced by the trainer who certified you or the training company that trained you.
If you are applying for a job, the easiest way might be to ask the employer to retrain you, you can explain to them that you reach a level of competency relevant for the job, you just lost your certificate as confirmation of your ability.
If you got your license from your employer, through in-house training, tell your employer that you lost it. Request for replacement of it. Your employer can easily confirm that you received and passed the training by verification from their training record.
If you received the license from a training school, through a company-sponsored method and you’re still employed with the company, make a request to the company to contact the training provider about how to replace your license. They will be able to assist with how to get a replacement.
Obtaining Replacement for the Lost Forklift License in Other Country
In the UK
If you are in the United Kingdom, to obtain a copy of your certificate you will need to contact the training provider who trained you and issued the original, or your previous employer, or the body which accredited the training. If you cannot obtain a copy, for some reason, then you may need to retake the training and assessment.
If you took an RTITB training course, your details are listed in the National Operator Registration Scheme (NORS). It allows employers to easily verify your credentials that you are qualified for the job as a forklift driver.
If you received the forklift license from a training provider, you can request for a replacement from them, they will charge you an amount.
In Australia
In Australia, driving forklifts is considered as high-risk work, and license must be obtained. If you have one, but due to unfortunate circumstances, if it is lost, then you need to reapply in WorkSafe. Here’s what you need to do:
- You need to show proof of primary and secondary identification beforehand. Such examples of primary IDs are passport, original birth certificate, driver’s license with photo, citizenship papers, or any valid HRW license; On the other hand, the secondary Ids are: Medicare card, pension card, or any entitlement card, credit or ATM card, bank passbook or statement of account, gas or telephone billing statement not more than 12 months old. Your application will not be accepted if you do not provide such identifications.
- Fill up the application, click here to download, be sure that all information is correct and important details are provided. When submitting this form, it must be witnessed by the Australia Post representative when affixing your signature.
- Contact WorkSafe at 1300 424 091, for instruction.
- Commonly, you will submit your application at the Australia Post, the officer will read thoroughly the details you included in the form, and will ask you why you have to replace your forklift license.
- You will pay $59, for the application.
- The application will be submitted to WorkSafe for processing.
If you misplaced your license and you want to retake a certification course, you can do it online, just find a training provider that offers such a course.
I Was Not Able to Get a Replacement, What Will I Do Now
If you are not successful in replacing your license due to an unfortunate reason, your new employer may ask you to retake the training and get reassessed. If will only take some of your time. The arrangement who will pay for the enrollment will depend on your negotiation. But usually, it is the employer’s obligation to provide the training.
What we also recommend is to take an online certification course. It has been designed to meet the requirements of OSHA 29 CFR 1910.178, ANSI B56.1. Plus the fact that you can easily be awarded certificates upon the successful completion of the training, great if lost your credentials.
Here is a reliable provider of online forklift certification training, please follow this page.
Usually, Here is the Process You Have to Go Through in Order to Get a New License
If you have lost your forklift license, you will need to obtain a replacement in order to continue operating forklifts. Here are the steps you will need to follow in order to obtain a replacement license:
- Gather required information: You will need to provide the issuing authority with your personal information, details about the lost or damaged license, and proof of identity.
- Contact the issuing authority: Contact the organization that issued your original forklift license and inform them that you need a replacement. They will provide you with the necessary information and instructions on how to obtain a replacement.
- Payment of fees: There may be fees associated with obtaining a replacement forklift license. Make sure you understand the fees and the payment options before proceeding.
- Prepare for the assessment: Depending on the issuing authority, you may be required to complete additional training or a re-assessment before obtaining a replacement license. Make sure you understand the requirements and prepare accordingly.
- Complete the assessment: The assessment process may include a theory and practical test. You will need to demonstrate your knowledge and skills in order to receive a replacement license.
- Receive the replacement license: Once you have successfully completed the assessment, you will receive your replacement forklift license. Make sure you understand the validity of the replacement license and the steps you need to take in order to renew it in the future.
It is important to act quickly to obtain a replacement forklift license in order to avoid any interruption to your ability to operate forklifts. If you have any questions or concerns about the process, reach out to the issuing authority for guidance.
Get a Copy of Your License to Prevent Interruption
Having a valid forklift license is essential for operating a forklift. In case your original license is lost or damaged, having a copy of your license on hand can help prevent work interruption and ensure that you can continue working legally.
It is important to note that operating a forklift without a valid license is illegal, and can result in serious consequences for both the operator and the employer. In addition, having a valid license demonstrates your competence and professionalism, and is often required by employers in the construction, logistics, and warehousing industries.
Obtaining a copy of your forklift license is a relatively straightforward process, and can be done by contacting the issuing authority and providing the necessary information and fees. Having a copy of your license can give you peace of mind and help you avoid any legal or professional issues in the future.
In conclusion, getting a copy of your forklift license is an important step in maintaining a valid license and ensuring that you can continue working without interruption. Whether you're a seasoned forklift operator or just starting out in the industry, having a copy of your license is a must.
To Recap This
Losing your forklift license can be a frustrating and stressful experience, but it's important to take the necessary steps to replace it as soon as possible. Operating a forklift without a valid license is illegal and can result in serious consequences for both the operator and the employer.
The first step in replacing a lost forklift license is to gather all the necessary information, including your personal details and information about the lost license. Next, contact the issuing authority to inform them of the situation and obtain the necessary instructions and fees.
It's important to have a copy of your license on hand, not only to prevent work interruption but also to demonstrate your competence and professionalism in the industry. Obtaining a copy of your license is a straightforward process that can be completed by contacting the issuing authority and providing the necessary information and fees.
In summary, losing your forklift license is a situation that can be easily rectified by taking the right steps. With a replacement license, you can continue working and maintain your professional standing in the industry..
