Which forklift truck do I need a driver's license for?
Forklifts are indispensable tools in numerous companies and businesses. However, not everyone is allowed to operate them without permission. Whether you need a special forklift license depends on the type of forklift and the location where it is used. In this article, we'll explain which forklifts require a forklift license and where there are exceptions.
1. Forklift license for front-loading, reach trucks and high-lift trucks
A driver's license is required for most commercially used forklifts in Germany. These include:
- Front loader : The classic forklift truck that is often used in warehouses and on company premises.
- Reach trucks : These trucks are often used in high-bay warehouses and also require special training.
- High-lift trucks : High-lift trucks with a lifting height of more than one meter and a larger load capacity also require a forklift license.
The basis for this regulation is the DGUV Regulation 68 of the German Employers' Liability Insurance Association, which stipulates that all forklift drivers in companies must have a forklift license. Companies are obligated to ensure that forklifts are operated only by trained and certified personnel.
2. Special forklifts: Telescopic and off-road forklifts
Some specific forklift types require additional qualifications:
- Telehandlers : Due to their versatile applications, especially in construction and agriculture, telehandlers have special requirements. Depending on the application, additional qualifications may be required.
- Rough-terrain forklifts : Forklifts designed for use on uneven or unpaved terrain are challenging to drive. A forklift license is required, sometimes supplemented by special training.
- Container forklifts : These forklifts are primarily used in ports and logistics centers to lift and stack containers. Their size and handling of heavy loads require special qualifications and a forklift license.
3. Forklifts on public roads
If a forklift is to be used on public roads , a forklift driver's license alone is not sufficient. In this case, a Class L or B driver's license is also required. This requirement applies regardless of the type of forklift and is for road safety. However, an additional driver's license for public roads is not required on company premises.
4. Exceptions: Industrial trucks without a forklift license
Some types of forklifts and industrial trucks do not require a forklift license because they are considered less risky:
- Manual pallet trucks : These devices, like pallet trucks and other manual industrial trucks, are operated manually and do not require a forklift license. They are suitable for transporting loads at low heights.
- Slow forklifts : Forklifts with a maximum speed of less than 6 km/h that are only operated indoors are often exempt from the driver's license requirement. This often applies to smaller forklifts and simple warehouse vehicles.
5. Why is the forklift license so important?
A forklift driver's license is not only a legal requirement, but also ensures workplace safety . Forklift accidents are among the most common workplace accidents in logistics and warehouse operations. This training provides important knowledge about operation, hazards, and safety precautions when handling forklifts.
Conclusion: You need a driver’s license for these forklifts
A forklift driver's license is mandatory in Germany for all commercially used forklifts, such as front-loading, reach trucks, and high-lift trucks. Specialized forklifts, such as telescopic or rough-terrain forklifts, require additional qualifications depending on the application. For use on public roads, you also need a car driver's license (Class L or B). Exceptions apply only to hand-operated industrial trucks and low-speed forklifts.
At Staplertechnik24.de, you'll find a wide selection of forklifts and industrial trucks for all applications. Whether you need a comprehensive forklift fleet for your warehouse or would like specific advice on forklift licenses and areas of application – we're here for you!