Forklift Operator (Optional + F Endorsement)

Yes. This course is suitable for people needing the core knowledge and practical skills to operate a forklift safely in the workplace. Learners still need to meet the entry requirements, and anyone completing the F endorsement component must hold the appropriate driver licence for that road-use requirement.

Workers operating forklifts need to be trained, supervised, and competent for the risks involved in the work they perform. If a forklift is driven on a road, operators also need the appropriate licence and F endorsement. Many workplaces and sites also require formal forklift training before operators can use equipment onsite.

You only need an F endorsement if you will be driving a forklift on a road. If the forklift is used only within the workplace, the focus is on safe operation, training, supervision, and employer authorisation. Once road use is involved, the relevant licensing and F endorsement requirements apply.

Learners need written and spoken English equivalent to NCEA Level 1 (Year 11) or an IELTS score of 5.5 or higher. Learners completing the Forklift Operator Certificate (US 10851) must be at least 15 years old but do not need a driver licence. Learners completing the F Endorsement (US 18496) must hold a current full driver licence other than Class 6. Learners should also have experience operating a forklift or a good understanding of safe forklift operation.

The course runs for 1 day. That time is used to cover the knowledge, practical forklift operation, VR simulator exercises, and assessment requirements linked to the unit standards, so learners should plan to attend the full session.

Yes, there is one assessment for each unit standard. The assessments confirm learners can apply the required knowledge and practical skills for safe forklift operation in workplace and road-related environments.

This course covers NZQA Unit Standards 10851 and 18496, depending on the training components completed. Together, these standards cover workplace forklift operation and the knowledge and skills required for driving a forklift safely and legally on a road.

Learners who successfully complete the forklift assessment can achieve NZQA Unit Standard 10851 and will receive a Certificate of Competency from IMPAC. Learners who also complete the optional F endorsement assessment can achieve NZQA Unit Standard 18496 and apply for an F endorsement on their driver licence.

IMPAC recommends refresher training at least every two years to help operators maintain safe driving practices, hazard awareness, and confidence operating forklifts in changing workplace environments. Some workplaces or high-risk sites may require more frequent refresher training or additional competency checks depending on equipment types, operating conditions, and site requirements.

Yes, this course is available for in-house delivery nationwide, and public courses may also run in Auckland depending on demand. In-house training can help organisations train operators together while reducing travel and disruption to daily operations.

Please bring the following to training:

• Closed footwear
• Photo identification

Learners completing the F endorsement component must also bring their current full driver licence other than class 6.

For public face-to-face courses, learners should bring their own lunch. Tea and coffee are available throughout the day.

Pricing depends on the delivery method.

In-house: $3950 + GST for up to 10 persons.

Public (face-to-face): $345 + GST per person.