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Forklift truck operator education requirements

Updated January 8, 2025
2 min read
Usually, forklift truck operators don't need a college education. The most common degree for forklift truck operators is high school diploma with 54% graduates, with only 18% forklift truck operator graduates earning diploma. Forklift truck operators who decided to graduate from college often finish DeVry University or University of Phoenix. Some good skills to have in this position include pallets, pallet jack and safety rules.

Popular forklift truck operator certifications include Commercial Driver License (CDL), Forklift Safety and Inspector, or OSHA Safety Certificate . To improve forklift truck operator qualification and skills, we prepared some online courses to help in forklift truck operator education paths.

What education do you need to become a forklift truck operator?

What degree do you need to be a forklift truck operator?

The most common degree for forklift truck operators is high school diploma, with 54% of forklift truck operators earning that degree. The second and third most common degree levels are diploma degree at 18% and diploma degree at 15%.
  • High School Diploma, 54%
  • Diploma, 18%
  • Associate, 15%
  • Bachelor's, 8%
  • Other Degrees, 5%

What should I major in to become a forklift truck operator?

You should major in business to become a forklift truck operator. 19% of forklift truck operators major in business. Other common majors for a forklift truck operator include general studies and automotive technology.

Best majors for forklift truck operators

20 best online courses for forklift truck operators

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Average forklift truck operator salary by education level

Forklift truck operators with a Associate degree earn more than those without, at $35,436 annually. With a High School Diploma degree, forklift truck operators earn a median annual income of $34,809 compared to $34,751 for forklift truck operators with an Bachelor's degree.
Forklift truck operator education levelForklift truck operator salary
High School Diploma or Less$34,809
Bachelor's Degree$34,751
Some College/ Associate Degree$35,436

Updated January 8, 2025

Zippia Research Team
Zippia Team

Editorial Staff

The Zippia Research Team has spent countless hours reviewing resumes, job postings, and government data to determine what goes into getting a job in each phase of life. Professional writers and data scientists comprise the Zippia Research Team.

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