Forklift Certification in Ontario: Cost & Requirements (2026 Guide)

What Does Forklift Certification Include?

Your certification fee covers everything needed to get fully certified in one day:

• Classroom safety training — OHSA legislation, hazard identification, equipment knowledge
• Hands-on practical training — operating the forklift under certified instructor supervision
• Written and practical evaluation — both must be passed to receive certification
• Certification card — issued same day, recognized by employers across Ontario

Training meets CSA Standard B335-15 and OHSA requirements. No hidden fees everything is covered in the course cost.

How Much Does Forklift Certification Cost in Ontario?

Forklift certification in Ontario typically costs between $150 and $250. Several factors affect where your price falls in that range:

• First-time vs. refresher — refresher courses for renewal are generally shorter and may cost less
• Individual vs. group booking — employers booking for a team receive different pricing than individual enrolment
• In-class vs. on-site training — on-site training at your facility is available province-wide and priced separately
• Equipment type — counterbalance, reach truck, and rough terrain each require separate certification if applicable

For an exact quote based on your situation, call (416) 635-7800 or request a free quote online.

How Long Does Forklift Certification Take?

Most forklift certification programs in Ontario take 1 full day (6–8 hours) to complete. Refresher training for experienced operators may be shorter. Blended training : theory online, practical in-person is also available if you want more scheduling flexibility.

Forklift Certification Requirements in Ontario

The requirements to get forklift certified in Ontario are straightforward. Most people qualify immediately:

• Minimum age of 18 years
• Ability to understand safety instructions in English
• Basic physical ability to operate machinery safely

No driver’s licence required. No prior forklift experience required. If you are booking for employees, the same requirements apply to each participant.

Why Is Forklift Certification Required in Ontario?

Under the Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA), employers are legally required to ensure every forklift operator is trained and evaluated as competent before operating equipment. Operating without proper certification exposes both the worker and employer to Ministry of Labour fines and liability.

STS has been delivering OHSA and CSA-compliant forklift training across Ontario since 1992. Your certification will hold up to any workplace inspection.

Forklift certification is a key requirement for most warehouse and logistics jobs in Ontario. To understand how certification impacts hiring and job eligibility, see our full guide: Do you need forklift certification for jobs in Ontario?.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do you need a driver’s licence to operate a forklift in Ontario?

No. A driver’s licence is not required to operate a forklift in Ontario. You only need to complete a forklift training program that meets OHSA and CSA Standard B335-15 requirements.

Is there a minimum age to get forklift certified in Ontario?

Yes. You must be at least 18 years old to enrol in forklift certification training in Ontario.

Do you need prior experience to take a forklift course?

No prior experience is required. Our beginner-level training is designed for first-time operators and includes full classroom instruction followed by supervised hands-on practice. You start from zero the course takes you to certified in one day.

Forklift Training Locations Across Ontario

We deliver OHSA & CSA certified forklift training across Ontario. Choose your nearest location:

• Forklift Training Toronto
• Forklift Training Hamilton
• Forklift Training Kitchener
• Forklift Training Brampton
• Forklift Training Mississauga
• Forklift Training Cambridge

On-site training available province-wide. Contact us for group and employer pricing.