Forklift trucks and other industrial trucks

Transport from A to B

In many companies, heavy loads have to be transported. As a rule, industrial trucks, better known as forklift trucks, are used for this purpose. These do not have a road permit but are only used for the storage, transfer and retrieval of goods.

In principle, one may drive such forklift trucks with a motor vehicle driving licence. For insurance and liability reasons, however, the employers' liability insurance associations require an additional driving licence for industrial trucks. You can find out how to get it on this page.
 

Industrial trucks in front of containers
© kamonrat - Fotolia
[Translate to English:] Die meisten Arbeitgeber verlangen einen spezifischen Führerschein für Flurförderfahrzeuge.

Important Information

  • You must be at least 18 years old. Under supervision, under 18-year-olds can also make the certificate during training
  • Certificate of physical and mental aptitude 
  • Registration for a seminar on forklift driving licences and on-site instruction
  • Written certification of the company

These authorities issue driving licences for industrial trucks:

  • with testing associations and organisations such as DEKRA and TÜV
  • with certified IAG training companies
  • for freelance trainers, e.g. inter-company safety services
  • companies dealing with forklift trucks.

In addition to practical exercises, the content of the training also includes theory. In the theoretical part, for example, you will learn more about accident regulations in operation, driving with loads and a safe stand. 

At the end of the seminar a theoretical and a practical exam will be taken. If this is passed, you will receive the floor conveyor certificate. You must always carry this with you in the company afterwards.

The compulsory seminar usually lasts one to two days and costs between 200 and 300 euros. In most cases, the employer does this in full. But even if you decide privately and independently to obtain this driving licence, you can in many cases receive a subsidy from the employment agency.

In addition to the forklift truck, there are other vehicles that fall under this category, for example:

  • Tug
  • Pallet truck
  • Container stackers
  • Telescopic forklift


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  • Reach trucks
  • Heavy lift truck
  • Off-road forklifts
  • Truck-mounted forklift
  • Order picker
  • Narrow-aisle truck
In the driving lessons you learn what you need for driving later and gain confidence for the test.

Find your driving school

You want to get a so-called special driving licence, but don't know where yet? Then take a look at our search, find driving schools in your area and find out about the special driving licences offered there.

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