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Best forklift operator certifications
Forklift operator certifications allow job seekers to demonstrate their competency as an forklift operator to employers. However, not all forklift operator certifications provide the same value for job seekers.
The best certifications for a forklift operator are Forklift Safety and Inspector, Commercial Driver License (CDL), and OSHA Safety Certificate .
Below is a list of the best forklift operator certifications. Obtaining an forklift operator certification will give you a leg up when you apply for jobs and increase your potential salary.
20 best certifications for forklift operators
| Rank | Forklift operator certification | Organization |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Forklift Safety and Inspector | CIC |
| 2 | Commercial Driver License (CDL) | FMCSA |
| 3 | OSHA Safety Certificate | Delaware Tech... |
| 4 | Operator Certification | CSDA |
| 5 | EPA Amusement Operators Safety Certification (EPA) | EPA |
| 6 | Certified Operator Class IV | ABC |
| 7 | Flagger (Instructor) | NSC |
| 8 | First Aid, CPR and AED Instructor | NSC |
| 9 | Computer Service Technician (CST) | ETA |
| 10 | Certified Aviation Manager (CAM) | NBAA |
| 11 | Certified Network Computer Technician (CNCT) | ETA |
| 12 | Food Safety Manager Certification | NRSFP, FSMC |
| 13 | Standards Professional Certification (CStd) | SES |
| 14 | Overhead Crane Operator | NCCCO |
| 15 | Certified Medical Office Manager (CMOM) | PMI |
| 16 | Certified Production Technician (CPT) | MSSC |
| 17 | Mobile Crane Operator Certification | NCCER |
| 18 | Certified Professional in Distribution and Warehouse Management (CPDW) | American Purc... |
| 19 | Certified Environmental Professional: Environmental Operations | ABCEP |
| 20 | Equipment Management Specialist (EMS) | AEMP |
20 best forklift operator certifications
1. Forklift Safety and Inspector
Most personnel operating and working around forklifts have had little or no quality training. This training program exceeds OSHA's new training requirements.
- More than two years of education or training after high school required? No
- More than two years of work experience required? No
- Oral or written exam required? Yes
- Renewal required? Every 2 year(s)
2. Commercial Driver License (CDL)
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) is the agency of the U.S. Department of Transportation that is responsible for establishing standards for Commercial Motor Vehicle (CMV) operators, including the Commercial Driver's License (CDL). The minimum national CDL testing standards and licensing requirements established by FMCSA are administered by state driver licensing agencies when they issue a CDL. You are required to obtain and hold a CDL if you drive interstate, intrastate (within a state), or for foreign commerce and drive a vehicle that meets any of the classifications of a CDL. States develop their own tests which must meet the minimum federal standards, but which also may have standards unique to the state. To get a CDL, first you must get a commercial learner's permit. States can only issue learner's permits and CDLs to drivers after they pass knowledge exams and skills tests. You have to pass the CDL knowledge and skills tests for the class of license and type of endorsement required to operate the type of commercial vehicle you plan to drive. And, you have to take the skills test in a vehicle of the same type as the vehicle you plan to operate. For a quick reference of CDL Classes, see the CDL License Matrix.
- More than two years of education or training after high school required? No
- More than two years of work experience required? No
- Oral or written exam required? Yes
- Renewal required? Every 4 year(s)
3. OSHA Safety Certificate
This 40-hour program covers both the Construction 1926 and General Industry 1910 Standards, how to effectively interpret the Federal Register, health issues related to a work environment, recognition of physical hazards related to the violation of OSHA standards, and employer implementation of their own pro-active safety and health procedures.
- More than two years of education or training after high school required? Yes
- More than two years of work experience required? Yes
- Oral or written exam required? No
- Renewal required? No
4. Operator Certification
Operator Certification is an intensive six-day training program that educates operators in the correct applications and techniques for safe, competent operation of sawing and drilling equipment.
- More than two years of education or training after high school required? Yes
- More than two years of work experience required? Yes
- Oral or written exam required? Yes
- Renewal required?
5. EPA Amusement Operators Safety Certification (EPA)
A comprehensive, equipment specific safety program designed to provide operators and their employees with a thorough understanding of best risk management practices. Industry accidents, which serve to put a spotlight on potential issues, can often be avoided through the utilization of proper risk management techniques.
- More than two years of education or training after high school required? No
- More than two years of work experience required? No
- Oral or written exam required? Yes
- Renewal required?
6. Certified Operator Class IV
- More than two years of education or training after high school required? Yes
- More than two years of work experience required? Yes
- Oral or written exam required? Yes
- Renewal required? Every 2 year(s)
7. Flagger (Instructor)
In the Flagger Training Instructor Course, you'll learn to teach work zone crews standard flagging procedures and how to provide safe passage in and around work areas. Get certified to deliver the Flagger Training Course to your work zone crews. No prerequisites required.
- More than two years of education or training after high school required? Yes
- More than two years of work experience required? No
- Oral or written exam required? No
- Renewal required? No
8. First Aid, CPR and AED Instructor
Knowing how to respond to a first aid or CPR emergency is one of the most important skills a person can possess. The Standard First Aid, CPR and AED course meets the OSHA requirements and is your tool for training employees or the general public on the latest skills, techniques and expertise in life-saving procedures. The practice and feedback of using related skills in a realistic situation is integrated into the actual teaching experience.
- More than two years of education or training after high school required? Yes
- More than two years of work experience required? No
- Oral or written exam required? No
- Renewal required? No
9. Computer Service Technician (CST)
The following can be expected to identify the major areas of training-study-knowledge and skills which the Computer Service Technician needs in order to perform the job of servicing the hardware and the systems software for personal computers: Computer Assembly-Disassembly; Motherboards; Buses; System Resources, Processor Characteristics; Memory Characteristics (Physical & Electronic); Secondary Storage Devices; Peripheral Devices; I/O Ports; Power Concepts and Power Supplies; Basic Networking Concepts; Portables; Digital Concepts; Troubleshooting/Preventive Maintenance; current Operating Systems; File Management; Safety Procedures/Handling; and Workplace Practices.
- More than two years of education or training after high school required? No
- More than two years of work experience required? No
- Oral or written exam required? Yes
- Renewal required? Every 4 year(s)
10. Certified Aviation Manager (CAM)
NBAA's Certified Aviation Manager (CAM) Program identifies qualified professionals to lead flight departments and companies that use business aircraft. Join the ranks of esteemed aviation professionals who have already been recognized as Certified Aviation Managers and apply for the CAM Exam today.
- More than two years of education or training after high school required? Yes
- More than two years of work experience required? Yes
- Oral or written exam required? Yes
- Renewal required? Every 3 year(s)
11. Certified Network Computer Technician (CNCT)
Certified Network Computer Technicians are expected to obtain knowledge of computer electronics basic concepts, Internet and networking technology applicable to various areas of the computer industry. Once the CNCT has acquired these skills, abilities and knowledge, he or she will be able to enter employment in any part of the computer industry. With minimal training in areas unique to the specific products, the CNCT should become a profitable and efficient part of the computer industry workforce.
- More than two years of education or training after high school required? No
- More than two years of work experience required? No
- Oral or written exam required? Yes
- Renewal required? Every 4 year(s)
12. Food Safety Manager Certification
The National Registry's Certified Food Safety Professional examination has been developed following the strictest test development procedures. The Certified Food Safety Manager examination is accredited by the American National Standards Institute using standards set by the Conference for Food Protection.
- More than two years of education or training after high school required? No
- More than two years of work experience required? No
- Oral or written exam required? Yes
- Renewal required? Every 5 year(s)
13. Standards Professional Certification (CStd)
"CStd" is a standards professional certification that demonstrates a thorough, more sophisticated knowledge of the principles, techniques and effects of standardization and recognizes a persons experience, expertise and contributions in the area of standards. The "CStd" level offers four specific interest categories: standards development, standards application, standards management, and standards information.
- More than two years of education or training after high school required? Yes
- More than two years of work experience required? Yes
- Oral or written exam required? Yes
- Renewal required? Every 5 year(s)
14. Overhead Crane Operator
The purpose of CCO is to set standards for measuring the knowledge and proficiency required for the safe operation of cranes.
- More than two years of education or training after high school required? No
- More than two years of work experience required? No
- Oral or written exam required? Yes
- Renewal required? Every 5 year(s)
15. Certified Medical Office Manager (CMOM)
Experienced medical office professionals with exceptional administrative skills are eligible to sit for the Certified Medical Office Manager (CMOM) exam. To attain CMOM certification, all candidates must demonstrate a high level of knowledge in financial management, managed care contracting, personnel, and time management. Risk management, medical record keeping and facility management issues should also be mastered.
- More than two years of education or training after high school required? No
- More than two years of work experience required? No
- Oral or written exam required? Yes
- Renewal required?
16. Certified Production Technician (CPT)
The MSSC System awards "Certified Production Technician (CPT)" certificates to individuals who pass any or all of its four Production modules: Safety; Quality Practices & Measurement; Manufacturing Processes & Production; and Maintenance Awareness.
- More than two years of education or training after high school required? No
- More than two years of work experience required? No
- Oral or written exam required? Yes
- Renewal required? Every 5 year(s)
17. Mobile Crane Operator Certification
NCCER and NACB have collaborated to develop the Crane Operator Certification Program. The program consists of written assessments and practical exams that meet or exceed current ASME/ANSI B30.5 consensus safety standards for mobile crane operators. Use our 'Find a Training or Assessment Center' locator tool to start the process of becoming certified.
- More than two years of education or training after high school required? Yes
- More than two years of work experience required? Yes
- Oral or written exam required? Yes
- Renewal required? Every 5 year(s)
18. Certified Professional in Distribution and Warehouse Management (CPDW)
The area of distribution, logistics and warehousing is a quickly blossoming type of business in the U.S. and other places. Warehouses and distribution centers are popping up everywhere as competition for immediate delivery increases. As this quickly growing business advances, the need for professionals in this field increases. The Certified Professional in Distribution and Warehousing (CPDW) program is designed to educate and train people in distribution, logistics, and warehousing management. Students who take this course will be prepared for professional jobs in distribution centers and warehouses.
- More than two years of education or training after high school required? Yes
- More than two years of work experience required? Yes
- Oral or written exam required? Yes
- Renewal required? Every 5 year(s)
19. Certified Environmental Professional: Environmental Operations
ABCEP Membership Management Certification News PartnershipsCERTIFICATIONCertified Environmental Professional: For the last 30 years the Certified Environmental Professional (CEP) designation has been awarded to senior managers and other qualified individuals as a way to demonstrate their professional skills and high standards of conduct. The CEP designation is a national system of excellence and says to employers, clients, colleagues and the public that an individual is a knowledgeable, experienced, and dedicated professional. The CEP is awarded after a comprehensive review of their background, their abilities, and their knowledge. Most CEPs have at least ten years of experience in the field.
- More than two years of education or training after high school required? Yes
- More than two years of work experience required? Yes
- Oral or written exam required? Yes
- Renewal required?
20. Equipment Management Specialist (EMS)
The Equipment Management Specialist designation is a recognized standard for developing the qualifications of a person involved with equipment in a private, municipal, or government fleet within the first five (5) years of career development.
- More than two years of education or training after high school required? No
- More than two years of work experience required? Yes
- Oral or written exam required? Yes
- Renewal required?
What is the best certification for a forklift operator?
The best forklift operator certification is Forklift Safety and Inspector. The Forklift Safety and Inspector is awarded by the Crane Institute Certification.
Here's a bit more background on how to obtain this forklift operator certification:
- To become a certified Forklift Safety and Inspector, you need to pass the exam.
- Lucky you - certification doesn't require more than two years of work experience.
- Renew certification every 2 year.
What are some of the most in-demand certifications for forklift operators?
The most in-demand forklift operator certification is Commercial Driver License based on all active job postings. Having this forklift operator certification will give you access to more forklift operator jobs with higher salaries.
What certifications can impact a forklift operator career and salary?
The Commercial Driver License certification will help you to secure a driver position, which will increase your pay and career trajectory. A driver's average salary is $29,560 whereas forklift operators make an average salary of $34,213.
The most common combination of forklift operator certifications include: Forklift Safety and Inspector, Commercial Driver License (CDL), and OSHA Safety Certificate .
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