Getting a forklift license in Arkansas is easier than you might think. If you want to drive a forklift for work, you need to be certified, but don't worry—we'll show you how to do it step by step.
It's an important step for anyone wanting to safely and legally operate a forklift on the job.
This guide will walk you through everything from figuring out if you’re eligible, to where you can get the training you need, and finally, how to officially get your license.
We’ll also talk about how much it might cost and what you need to do to keep your license up to date. By the end, you’ll see that while it might look a bit complicated at first glance, with the right information, getting your forklift license is totally doable.
So, whether you’re aiming to land a new job or make sure you’re following the rules at your current one, we’ve got you covered.
Let’s get started on getting you behind the wheel of a forklift, the right way.
Read on…
How to Obtain a Forklift License
- Find a school where you want to take the training - To save you time in finding a school, we made a directory available for you, and the list of training schools in Arkansas is below, for your reference. See below for the list of schools.
- Enroll in a course – please be reminded that before enrolling, you must specify what type of forklift you want to be trained on as there are a lot of them. The course curriculum must match with the type you’ve chosen.
- Attend the classroom training – well, you might find it traditional but the classroom training is an important part of the training course. It is designed to be quick and easy to take, you could actually complete it in just 4 hours less.
- Pass the written test - After completing the lectures, an applicant will be given a written examination. The passing grade is 80%. But this may be different from school to school. The schools may set forth a system with a higher standard.
- Take the practical training – you will go through the actual and hands-on driving. In this part, you will rehearse about the safe and proper use of the equipment. The trainer will oversee you while doing the exercises.
- Get your performance evaluated - the trainer will evaluate your skill in operating the forklift. He will assign you to do sorts of work with the forklift such as starting the machine, loading/unloading, picking a laden pallet, maneuvering in tight spaces, weight calculation, transporting of loads, determining hazards, basic inspection and troubleshooting, and other tasks. Once he is satisfied with the skill you exhibited, he will recommend your certification.
- Receive your certificate and/or forklift license – when you are successful in passing the written and practical tests, at the end of the course, you will then receive your certificate and/or license. You can now show this to your employer for possible job offers or promotions.
How to Pass the Training Exams? READ these guides:
If you are an operator seeking certification, READ these important topics:
- How to Become Certified Driving Forklifts
- Where Can You Go To Getting Forklift License
- What are the Requirements You Need Before Taking the Training
- How Much Does It Cost You to Get Forklift Training
- How Long Does It Take You to Complete the Training Course
- Another Alternative: Online Forklift Training - Is It Right for You?
If you are an employer, check these topics:
- Appoint Someone as a Forklift Trainer to Deliver the Training to Save Money
- Is it Your Responsibility to Train the Workers
- What Should the Training Be Composed of to Comply with OSHA
- Worker is Injured at Work, Are You Liable?
- How to Renew Forklift License for Your Workers
Forklift Training Schools in Arkansas
- National Lift of Arkansas
601 West Dixon Road, Little Rock , AR 72206, Phone: 501-490-0909
228 South 40th Street, Suite B, Springdale, Phone: 479-717-2535 - Goodwill Industries of Arkansas, Inc.
7400 Scott Hamilton Drive, Suite 50, Little Rock AR 72209
Tel: 501-372-5100, Toll Free: 877-372-5151 - Hugg & Hall Equipment Company
1095 Collier Drive, Conway, AR 72032
Phone (501) 450-9500, Fax (501) 450-0016 - Arkansas State University - MID South
Room 103, Workforce Technology Center, ASU Mid-South
2000 West Broadway, West Memphis, AR 72301
Phone: (870)733-6012 - National Park College
101 College Drive, Hot Springs National Park, Arkansas 71913
(501) 760-4222, Toll free number: 1-844-806-8752 - University of Arkansas
2500 South Main Hope, AR 71802
Phone 870.722.8568 (inquire about upcoming classes) - University of Arkansas
Fayetteville, AR 72701
Phone: 479-575-2000 - Arkansas State University
1000 Iowa Street, Beebe, AR 72012
101 River Crest, Heber Springs, AR 72543
1490 Vandenberg Blvd, Suite 115, Jacksonville, AR 72099
1800 East Moore Avenue, Searcy, AR 72143
Contact: 501.207.6249 or 501.207.6250 - The University of Arkansas at Monticello
346 University Dr., Monticello, AR 71656
1.800.844.1826, 870.460.1026 - Seark College
1900 Hazel Street, Pine Bluff, AR 71603
Phone: 870-543-5900 - Black River Technical College
1410 Highway 304 East, Pocahontas, AR 72455
Phone: (870) 248-4000 - Cossatot Community College of the University of Arkansas
183 College Drive, De Queen, AR 71832
Phone: 870-584-4471, toll free: 800-844-4471 - Philipps Community College
1210 Rice Belt Avenue, DeWitt, AR 72042
P: 870-946-3506, F: 870-946-2644
2807 Hwy. 165 South, Box A, Stuttgart, AR 72160
P: 870-673-4201, F: 870-673-8166 - Heubel-Shaw Material Handling
1300 West Hudson Road, Rogers, Arkansas 72756
Phone: 479-770-2156 - WIESE USA Inc.
3113 E. Washington, North Little Rock, Arkansas 72114, (501) 945-2394
4773 North Thompson, Springdale, Arkansas 72764, (479) 751-1102
3105 Prosperity Drive, Jonesboro, Arkansas 72404, (870) 972-0800
When picking a school or program to learn something new, like driving a forklift, you'll want to go for one that's well-known for being good and has a stamp of approval from the top guys in the field. This means they're checked out and trusted to teach you right. Make sure they've got classes that fit into your daily life, so you don't have to miss out on work or family time.
It's also smart to check how much it'll cost you, not just for the classes but also for any books or extra stuff you might need. Talk to people who've been through the program or read reviews online to see if it's worth your time and money. And don't forget to see if they help you find a job after you're done learning. This way, you're not left trying to figure things out on your own once you've got your new skills.
Go for a place that feels right for you, where you think you'll get the best out of your time and money.
Do you know how to enroll in a school to get quality training? READ this:
If you're an employer and need your team to operate forklifts, you actually have the option to do the training right at your own place. This is pretty handy because it means you can make sure the training is super relevant to the specific kind of work your team will be doing.
Plus, doing it onsite lets your employees learn in the environment they'll actually be working in, which can make a big difference. They get to practice on the same equipment and spaces they'll use every day.
You'll need to find someone qualified to run the training, though. This person should know the ins and outs of operating a forklift safely and be up-to-date on any legal stuff about workplace safety and training requirements.
The cool part is, once your team is trained, they're not just more skilled; they're also more aware of how to keep things safe at work, which is a win-win for everyone. Plus, training your staff in-house can sometimes save you money compared to sending them out to external courses and can be a big plus for your business overall.
How Much Does Forklift Training Cost?
When it comes to getting a forklift license in Arkansas, there are a few costs you'll need to plan for. Understanding these expenses ahead of time can help you budget effectively and avoid any surprises along the way.
Estimated Costs for Training and Certification
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Training Program Fees: The bulk of your expenses will likely come from the training program itself. These programs can vary widely in cost depending on the provider, the type of forklift training, and the depth of the course. On average, you might expect to pay anywhere from $100 to $600 for a comprehensive training program. This fee usually covers both the classroom learning and the hands-on training.
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Certification Fees: Some training providers include the cost of certification in their course fees, while others might charge separately for the examination and certification process. If it's separate, you could pay an additional $50 to $100 for your certification.
Additional Costs
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Materials: While many training programs provide all the necessary materials as part of the course fee, you might need to budget for textbooks or online resources if they are not included. This could add an extra $20 to $50 to your total cost.
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Retake Exams: If you don't pass your certification exam on the first try, you'll need to retake it. Exam retake fees vary by provider but expect to pay a portion of the original exam fee again, possibly around $50 to $100 for each retake.
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Travel and Accommodation: If you don't live near a training center, you might also need to consider the cost of travel and accommodation while you complete your training. These costs can vary significantly based on distance and the length of the training program.
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Renewal Fees: Forklift certifications are not forever; they typically need to be renewed every three years. The cost of renewal can be similar to or slightly less than the initial certification cost, so plan for this future expense as well.
It's a good idea to contact several training providers in Arkansas to compare costs and what's included in their programs. Some employers might also offer to pay for your training and certification or reimburse you for these expenses, so be sure to ask if this is an option. Budgeting for the total cost of forklift certification will help you navigate the process smoothly and ensure there are no financial surprises along the way.
Salary of Forklift Operator in Arkansas
The average salary of a licensed forklift operator in Arkansas is $38,067 per year but it typically ranges between $34,205 and $43,146. These numbers are according to the latest January 26 2024 report of Salary.com. Arkansas is the lowest-paying state in terms of remuneration. In Oklahoma, the neighboring state, the salary is higher compared to Arkansas.
To earn more money as a forklift operator, try to get better at your job and learn new things. Take extra courses to handle different kinds of forklifts and learn about safety. The more you know and the longer you've been doing it, the more you can make.
Try to be good at talking to people and solving problems; these skills help too. Sometimes, taking classes in things like how the warehouse works or how to fix forklifts can also lead to a bigger paycheck.
Look for jobs in places that pay more because they need special skills or because they're in big industries. Don't be shy to ask for more money if you know you're doing a great job.
Sometimes, moving to a place where forklift drivers are paid more can help. Also, talking to people who work in the same field can open up opportunities for better-paying jobs. In short, keep learning, be willing to do more, and always look out for better chances to earn more.
Finding a Job as a Certified Forklift Operator
Once you've got your forklift certification in hand, the next step is finding a job. Being certified opens up many doors, but knowing where to look and how to present yourself can make a big difference. Here are some tips for job hunting with a forklift certification, the industries you should consider, and what kind of salary and benefits you might expect in Arkansas.
Tips for Job Hunting with a Forklift Certification
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Update Your Resume: Make sure your resume highlights your newly acquired forklift certification along with any relevant experience. Detail the types of forklifts you're certified to operate and any specific skills or training you've received.
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Use Job Search Engines: Websites like Indeed, Monster, and LinkedIn can be great resources. Use keywords like "forklift operator" and "material handling" to find postings. Don't forget to set up job alerts to get notified of new openings.
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Tap Into Local Resources: Check with local job centers, community colleges, and training centers for job placement services. They often have connections with local employers looking for certified forklift operators.
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Network: Let friends, family, and former colleagues know you're looking for a forklift operator position. Word of mouth can be powerful. Also, consider joining online forums or local groups for logistics and warehouse professionals.
Industries Hiring Forklift Operators in Arkansas
Forklift operators are in demand across a variety of sectors. In Arkansas, consider these industries:
- Warehousing and Distribution: With a growing number of distribution centers, there's a steady need for forklift operators to move goods in warehouses.
- Manufacturing: Many manufacturing plants use forklifts to move raw materials and finished products.
- Construction: Forklift operators can find opportunities in construction sites, moving materials and assisting in various tasks.
- Retail: Large retail outlets, especially those with sizable stockrooms or attached distribution centers, require forklift operators.
- Transportation and Logistics: Companies in this sector often look for operators to load and unload goods from trucks and manage inventory.
Expected Salary Range and Benefits
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Salary Range: The salary for forklift operators in Arkansas can vary based on experience, industry, and location within the state. On average, you might expect to earn between $25,000 and $35,000 per year. More experienced operators or those working in specialized industries might earn more.
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Benefits: In addition to salary, many employers offer benefits such as health insurance, retirement plans, paid time off, and opportunities for overtime pay. Some companies may also offer additional training and certification opportunities to help you advance in your career.
Finding a job as a certified forklift operator in Arkansas is about knowing where to look and how to present your skills and certification. With the right approach, you can find a position that suits your needs and offers you a stable and rewarding career path.
What Can You Reap from Having Forklift Certifications
Obtaining a forklift certification can provide several benefits, including:
- Improved job opportunities: Many industries, such as manufacturing, warehousing, and construction, require forklift operators. Having a forklift license can make you a more attractive candidate to potential employers, as it demonstrates that you have the necessary skills and knowledge to operate a forklift safely and effectively.
- Increased workplace safety: Forklifts can be dangerous if not operated correctly, and accidents can result in serious injuries or even fatalities. By obtaining a forklift certification, you will learn how to operate the equipment safely and how to identify potential hazards in the workplace. This can help reduce the risk of accidents and injuries on the job.
- Potential for higher wages: Many employers offer higher wages to employees who have a forklift certification, as it is considered a specialized skill. In addition, having a certification can demonstrate to employers that you are serious about your job and willing to invest in your own professional development, which can also lead to opportunities for advancement.
To Make a Conclusion
Getting a forklift license in Arkansas is a smart move for anyone looking to secure a stable job in the warehousing, manufacturing, or logistics industries. It's not just about meeting legal requirements; it's about opening doors to new job opportunities, ensuring workplace safety, and setting the stage for potential career growth and higher earnings.
The process might require some investment in terms of time and money, but the payoff comes in the form of better job prospects and the possibility of earning more down the line.
So, gear up, get certified, and get ready to steer your career in a promising direction with your new forklift license.
