Career Newsletter – Forklift Truck Instructor/Examiner

A Career as a Forklift Truck Instructor/Examiner

A career as a Forklift Truck Instructor/Examiner can be a rewarding path if you have experience in materials handling, enjoy teaching, and prioritise workplace safety.

Here are some common questions and answers that you may find useful if you have ever considered transitioning into this role.

• What does a forklift instructor do?

A forklift instructor trains individuals to operate forklifts safely and in line with regulations. This includes teaching theory (health & safety, legislation) and practical skills (truck control, load handling), assessing candidates, and ensuring they meet certification standards.

• What qualifications do I need to become a forklift instructor?

You must be an experienced and certified forklift operator to then move onto completing an accredited Forklift Instructor/Examiner Course from a recognised body.

Specialist Training & Consultancy Services Ltd have been an RTITB accredited Forklift Truck Instructor/Examiner Centre for over 25 years.

• How long does forklift instructor training take?

The RTITB instructor course is typically 7-10 days, depending on your experience level and course loading.  The objective of the course is to provide trainees with the skills to prepare and examine operators for working with lift trucks in accordance with best practice.

To successfully pass the RTITB forklift instructor course candidates are required to pass:

• The advanced operating skills test
• Pre-use check test
• In-Class delivery lesson
• Associated knowledge test
• Practical instructional test

 

• Do forklift instructors need to renew their certification?

Yes. RTITB Instructors need to re-register every 5 years through a refresher or re-registration course to stay current with safety standards and teaching practices.

Where can forklift instructors work?

• Employed at an accredited training centre
• Fulfil the function of an in-house trainer in a warehouse or logistics company
• Self-employed freelance trainer

• Is there demand for forklift instructors?

Yes. With increasing focus on workplace safety and the growth of logistics and warehousing, qualified forklift instructors are in steady demand, especially those certified with major accreditation bodies.

What skills are essential to be a good instructor?

• Strong communication and teaching ability
• Deep understanding of forklift operation and safety
• Patience and professionalism
• Confidence in assessing and giving feedback
• Ability to adapt to different learning styles

 

• Can I become an instructor if I’ve only used one type of forklift?

Yes, but your teaching scope may be limited to that truck type. To teach multiple types (e.g., counterbalance, reach, pivot steer, pedestrian pallet, order picker), you’ll need certification and experience on each.

• What are the next steps after becoming an instructor?

You can:

• Specialise in certain truck types or advanced skills
• Start your own accredited training business
• Become an instructor to train others to become Instructor/Examiners
• Progress as an Examiner employed by one of the accredited bodies
• Progress into Health & Safety, Training Management, or Auditing

If this is something you are interested call 0800 3283297 for more information.

Specialist Training Forklift Instructor/Examiner Team