How to Get a Forklift License in Michigan? (Need to Know This)

Getting a forklift license in Michigan is a smart move if you're looking to up your game and land a good job in places like warehouses, construction sites, or factories. If you're new to this and wondering how to start, how long it'll take, and how much it's going to cost you, you're in the right spot.

We're here to break it all down for you in simple terms. No complicated jargon, just the straight-up facts about getting trained, how long you'll be at it, and what you'll need to spend.

Let's get into the nuts and bolts of becoming a forklift driver, making sure you've got all the info you need to get going.

Read on...

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Getting a Forklift License in Michigan

For Employed Individuals

The best location to get your certification is through employer-sponsored training on-site. The OSHA stipulates that employers are in charge of the training for their forklift operators. The employer will schedule a day and can hire an approved trainer or assessor from the training school to conduct the training at their workplace. During the training, all operators are required to have their competencies assessed by the trainer by taking written tests and actual operator evaluations.

For New Operators with No Prior Knowledge

You can enroll at the training school (we’ve provided the list below) to undergo training. When enrolling, the training course must be specific to the type of forklift you are intending to operate.
The training is composed of three parts. You must take the classroom discussion which usually consumes 4-5 hours where you can learn truck controls and handling, OSHA regulations, and federal guidelines, you’ll be presented with PowerPoint or video presentations, safety awareness, proper operational practices, and many other important aspects.

The actual operation or practical test follows next. In this part, you are given several instructions such as starting the forklift, maneuvering, loading, unloading, transporting loads, and proper parking for you to accomplish.

The trainer will oversee your operation and then your performance will be evaluated accordingly.
If a trainee has been evaluated satisfactorily, the trainee will be given a certificate of course completion and a forklift license. Bring those documents when applying for a job.
Re-licensing can be done every three years where you need to prove that you maintain your competency driving forklifts.

In this state, an additional permit is required from the Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs for forklift operators to be obtained through an employer.

I strongly suggest that you READ these important subjects to help you get your certification:

If you are an employer and seeking training for your workers, here are the matters you need to know, READ these:

Completing Your Training

Getting trained up to be a forklift driver is a bit like learning to drive, but instead of a car, you're learning to handle a big machine that can lift loads of stuff. Here's how it usually goes down, in simple steps:

Step 1: Hitting the Books (Classroom Learning)

Safety First: You start off in the classroom, where they'll teach you all about keeping safe while operating a forklift. This includes understanding the rules you gotta follow to avoid accidents.
Learning the Ropes: You'll also learn about the different parts of a forklift, how they work, and the right way to use them. Think of it as getting to know your machine inside out.

Step 2: Getting Your Hands Dirty (Hands-On Training)

Practical Lessons: After you've got the basics down in the classroom, you'll move on to the fun part – actually driving a forklift. Under the watchful eye of a trainer, you'll get to practice moving and lifting loads, just like you would on the job.
Real-World Practice: This part of the training is all about getting comfortable with the forklift. You'll practice in an environment that mimics a real workplace, so you know what to expect when you're doing it for real.

Step 3: Learning About Different Forklifts

Types of Forklifts: Not all forklifts are the same. During your training, you'll learn about different types, like the stand-up ones you see in warehouses or the heavy-duty ones used in construction. Each type has its own special features and controls.
Matching the Forklift to the Job: You'll also learn which forklift is right for different kinds of jobs. This way, you can handle any task that comes your way, whether it's moving boxes in a storeroom or lifting heavy materials on a building site.

Passing the Certification Exam

Getting your forklift certification means you've got to pass the big test. But don't sweat it; here's what you need to know to ace it on your first go:

What's on the Exam?

The Written Part: First up, you'll hit the books and then show what you've learned in a written test. This part checks how well you know the safety rules, the do's and don'ts of operating a forklift, and all that important stuff to keep you and everyone safe on the job.
The Hands-On Part: Next, you'll get behind the wheel of a forklift for the practical test. This is where you show you can walk the walk by safely moving and lifting loads, just like you would on a regular workday.

Tips to Nail It the First Time

Study Up: Make sure you pay attention during your training classes and review any study guides or materials they give you. Knowing your stuff inside and out is key.
Practice Makes Perfect: Get as much hands-on practice as you can. The more comfortable you are operating a forklift, the better you'll do on the practical part of the test.
Understand Safety: Focus on the safety procedures. A lot of the exams will cover safety practices, so knowing these well will not only help you pass but also keep you safe on the job.
Stay Calm: Test anxiety is real, but try to stay cool. Remember, you've trained for this. Take deep breaths, focus on one question at a time, and don't rush through the practical test.
Ask Questions: If you're unclear on anything during your training, don't be shy to ask your instructor. Better to clear up any confusion before you're sitting for the exam.

By following these tips and taking your training seriously, you'll be set to pass your forklift certification exam with flying colors. Once you've passed, you'll be officially certified to operate a forklift, opening up new job opportunities and proving you've got what it takes to work safely and efficiently.

Once you successfully pass the written and practical exams, you will your forklift operator certificate/card.

Forklift Training Centers in Michigan

Bell Fork Lift, Inc. - 34660 Centaur, Clinton Township., Michigan 48035. Toll Free: 888.404.2575
Michigan Chamber of Commerce - 600 S. Walnut St., Lansing, MI 48933; 1.800.748.0266
Detroit Training Center - 5151 Loraine St, Detroit, Phone: 313.221.5876
Fraza Forklifts Corporate - Headquarters - 39550 Schoolcraft, Plymouth, MI 48170, T: 800.954.5553
Forklift Training USA – 34659 Nova, Clinton Township, Michigan 48035, Tel: 888-404-2575
Morrison Industrial Equipment - 1825 Monroe Ave NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49505, 888-928-1610
Hull Lift Truck, Inc. - Grand Rapids, Phone: 616-949-4500; Benton Harbor: (269) 849-0701, (888) 284-0364
Alta Equipment Company - 2470 W Columbia Ave, Battle Creek, (269) 965-1269, Several more offices in MI
Northern Michigan University - 1401 Presque Isle Ave., Marquette, MI 49855-5301, 906–227–1000
Fairchild Equipment - (800) 289-9253
KMH Fleet Solutions - 633 11th St., Plainwell, MI 49080, Ph: 616-222-0612, Fax: 937-890-2392
Macallister Rentals- 6190 Clyde Park Ave SW, Byron Center, (616) 530-2233, (866) 848-2675
Integrity Lift Services - 13455 Stamford Ct, Livonia, MI 48150, (734) 838-1970
Quantum Lift, Inc. - Toll Free: (855) 249-7163, 21300 MacArthur Blvd Warren MI 48089,
Great Lakes Safety Training Center - 1900 Ridgewood Midland, P: (989) 837-2332, Toll: (800) 675-7599
Andersen Material Handling - 30575 Andersen Court, Wixom, MI 48393, (877) 960-6800
Eastern Michigan University - 203 Boone Hall, Ypsilanti, MI 48197, 734.487.2259 or 800.932.8689
Northern Michigan University - 1401 Presque Isle Ave., Marquette, MI 49855-5301, 906–227–1000
AIS Training Center - 3600 N. Grand River Ave., Lansing, MI 48906, Phone: 517.321.8000, Fax: 517.321.9686
Michigan Forklifts - 30880 Industrial Road, Livonia, MI 48150, Phone (734) 744-4855, Fax (734) 795-4656

Do You Have an Expired License, You Need to Renew It

Alright, so you've got your forklift license in Michigan, and you're cruising along in your job, lifting and shifting like a pro. But don't forget, that license isn't good forever. It's got an expiration date, kind of like milk, but it lasts a lot longer—usually about three years. When it's time to renew, you gotta make sure you're not left with a license that's gone sour.

Renewing your forklift license isn't a big headache, but it's something you need to keep on top of to make sure you stay legit on the job. The deal is, safety rules and forklift tech can change, and the folks in charge want to make sure you're up to speed with the latest and greatest in forklift safety and operations.

So, when your license's expiration is creeping up, you'll likely need to jump back into the classroom for a bit of a refresher course. This is a good thing—it means you're not just rehashing old stuff, but you're also getting the latest info on keeping things safe at work. Plus, it's a chance to brush up on skills that might have gotten a bit rusty.

After you've done your refresher course, you'll probably have to show off your forklift skills again in a practical test, and there might be a written test to make sure all that new knowledge has stuck. It's like a mini version of what you did to get your license in the first place.

Once you've passed, you'll get your license renewed, and you're good to go for another few years. Remember, keeping your license up to date is super important—not just because it's the law, but also because it keeps you and everyone else safe at work. Plus, employers are always going to want to see that your forklift credentials are current before they let you loose in their warehouse or job site.

How Much Can You Make as Licensed Forklift Operator

The average salary for a forklift operator in this state varies according to different sources. According to Indeed, the average salary is $17.34 per hour, with an additional $5,437 in overtime per year. Salary.com provides a slightly broader perspective, stating that the average Fork Lift Operator salary in Michigan is $41,325, with the range typically falling between $37,135 and $46,839.

Another source, Glassdoor, estimates the total pay for a Forklift Operator to be $42,542 per year in the Michigan area, with an average salary of $40,221 per year and estimated additional pay of $2,321 per year.

In Ohio, the neighboring state, the salary is slightly lower.

Given these salary estimates, it's clear that pursuing a career as a forklift operator in this state can be financially rewarding. The variations in pay might reflect differences in industry demand, cost of living in different parts of the state, and the level of experience and certification of the forklift operator.

For anyone considering this career path, it's important to factor in these variables when evaluating potential earnings. For instance, operators working in high-demand areas such as Detroit or Grand Rapids may find higher wages compared to more rural settings. Similarly, those with specialized certifications or experience with specific types of forklifts may command higher salaries.

Moreover, the additional pay mentioned, such as overtime, indicates the potential for earning beyond the base salary depending on the work environment and hours available. This could be especially relevant during peak seasons or in industries requiring round-the-clock operations, like logistics and warehousing.

If you want to know how much is the salary in every state and city, READ this:

How Much Does Forklift Operator Make?

To Make a Conclusion

Getting and keeping your forklift license in Michigan is like having a key to some cool job opportunities. From the get-go, you learn the ropes, show off your skills to get certified, and then keep on proving you've still got it every few years. It's not just about driving a forklift; it's about staying sharp and safe on the job. So, when you're ready to step up, remember that a little bit of learning and some paperwork can open up big doors. Keep that license fresh, and you'll be all set to lift, shift, and move forward in your career.

That's the straight-up story on keeping your forklift license in check. By staying on top of your game, renewing when it's time, and keeping safety at the front of your mind, you're not just another forklift driver; you're a pro that businesses are on the lookout for. It's about more than just moving stuff from point A to point B. It's about knowing the ins and outs of your machine, being a team player, and keeping your workplace running smoothly and safely.

So, take pride in that certification. It's proof that you've put in the work, you know what you're doing, and you're ready to handle whatever comes your way on the job. Whether you're just starting out or you're a seasoned operator, that piece of paper is your ticket to a solid job and a steady paycheck. Keep it up to date, and it'll keep opening doors for you. After all, in the world of forklifts, being licensed is just the beginning. The real adventure is where it takes you from there.

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