How does the forklift exam work in the Netherlands, and when should you renew your certificate?

Have you been operating a forklift for years and wonder if the exam could still surprise you? Or are you just starting your career as a forklift operator and want to know what to expect from your first training course?

In the Netherlands, experience matters, but knowing how to operate a forklift isn't enough. The exam focuses primarily on safety: identifying risks, checking the equipment, handling loads correctly, and responding to unexpected situations that can arise in a warehouse at any time.

In this article, we explain what to expect from the forklift exam, how training differs for beginners and experienced operators, and when you should plan to renew your certificate.

What’s the difference between a beginner forklift course and a course for experienced operators?

Not every training participant starts from scratch. Some are just learning the basics of forklift operation, whilst others have been transporting pallets, handling loads and manoeuvring through narrow warehouse aisles for years.

The basic course is designed for those who need to learn how to operate a forklift from the very beginning. It covers theory, familiarisation with the machine, safety rules and practical exercises.

The forklift course for experienced operators is usually shorter. It assumes that the participant already knows how to operate the machine, so greater emphasis is placed on assessing skills, safety and eliminating bad habits. It is precisely these habits that can pose the greatest challenge during training – many years’ experience does not automatically mean that every manoeuvre is carried out in accordance with safety rules.

Forklift certificate in the Netherlands - what is it and why do you need it?

In the Netherlands, the document commonly referred to as a forklift certificate (heftruck certificaat) is usually proof of having completed the relevant training and successfully demonstrated one’s knowledge and skills.

It is not a state-issued driving licence, nor is it a standardised document issued to all operators by a single authority.

Dutch health and safety regulations do, however, require that persons operating certain mobile work equipment, including forklift trucks, possess the appropriate competence and training.

For the employer, the certificate is an important means of documenting the operator’s training. However, it does not exempt the company from the obligation to provide instruction specific to the particular piece of equipment and the conditions prevailing at the workplace.

How does the forklift exam work in the Netherlands? Step-by-step guide

A forklift truck test in the Netherlands usually consists of a theory and a practical part. Candidates must demonstrate that they are familiar with the basic safety rules and are able to apply them when operating the machine.

In the Netherlands, there is no single national exam with an identical number of questions, duration and marking criteria for all training centres. The specific format depends on the organiser and the type of training.

Theory section - what sort of questions appear in the exam?

The theory is not simply about memorising regulations. Its aim is to assess whether the operator understands the hazards they may encounter during the day-to-day operation of a forklift truck.

Typical topics include:

• the construction and basic operating principles of a forklift truck;
• load capacity, centre of gravity and stability of the machine;
• safe transport and stacking of loads;
• pre-operation checks;
• traffic rules within the warehouse and the presence of pedestrians;
• safe driving on slopes;
• procedures in the event of a breakdown or the detection of a fault.

Anyone searching online for the phrase ‘forklift theory test questions’ should focus not only on memorising the answers, but above all on understanding the principles of safe operation.

Practical part - what does the examiner assess whilst driving and handling the load?

In the practical part, theory meets the reality of the warehouse.

The examiner observes not only whether the operator is able to lift a pallet and move it to the designated location. The manner in which the entire task is carried out is also important.

The following, amongst other things, may be assessed:

• preparing the forklift for work;
• correct starting, braking and turning;
• monitoring the surroundings whilst driving and reversing;
• the safe collection, transport and stowage of loads;
• maintaining an appropriate speed;
• adherence to traffic rules and reacting to hazards.

The practical forklift truck test is designed to demonstrate whether the candidate can safely carry out tasks corresponding to the actual duties of an operator.

Common mistakes that can cause you to fail the forklift exam

Not every minor mistake during a manoeuvre means you will fail the exam. However, mistakes that could lead to an accident, damage to equipment, or loss of load stability are taken much more seriously.

Safety mistakes

Some of the most dangerous mistakes include driving too fast, failing to check your surroundings when reversing, ignoring pedestrians, and travelling with a load raised too high.

Technical and manoeuvring mistakes

Problems can occur when making tight turns, positioning the forklift correctly in front of a pallet, parking, or operating the forks precisely. Hitting warehouse racking or knocking over objects is also considered a serious safety risk.

Load handling and stability mistakes

Incorrectly positioning the forks under a pallet, transporting an unstable load, exceeding the forklift's maximum lifting capacity, or making sudden turns while carrying a load can create serious hazards.

The most important thing to remember is simple: safe forklift operation matters more than completing a task quickly.

Forklift practical exam - what tasks can you expect?

The practical part of the exam should reflect the tasks carried out in warehouses, production facilities and logistics centres.

Pre-operation inspection of the forklift truck and preparation of the work area

Before setting off, the operator should ensure that the machine is fit for safe operation.

The inspection may include checking the condition of the forks, mast, wheels, controls, warning signs and safety belts, as well as checking for any visible damage or leaks.

Lifting, setting down and transporting pallets in warehouse aisles

This is one of the operator’s basic tasks. The examiner checks the position of the forklift in relation to the pallet, how the forks are inserted, the lifting of the load and its safe transport.

It is also important to maintain the correct transport height and ensure stability whilst moving.

Precision manoeuvres - reversing, turning round and operating in confined spaces

Not every warehouse has wide aisles and plenty of space for turning round.

During the practical test, you may be asked to carry out tasks requiring precise driving, reversing, avoiding obstacles and manoeuvring the forklift in confined spaces.

Communication and traffic rules in the warehouse

A forklift operator is rarely the only person moving around the warehouse. Therefore, during practical training, it is also important to maintain safe distances, keep an eye out for pedestrians, observe signage and be familiar with the rules of right of way applicable on the premises.

Forklift exam passing requirements and how to get your certificate

A pass means that the participant has demonstrated the required level of knowledge and the ability to operate the equipment safely.

How does the ‘pass/fail’ assessment work, and what is a critical error?

Training centres may use different assessment sheets and methods.

Behaviour that poses a serious risk may be considered a critical error, e.g. losing control of the load, performing a dangerous manoeuvre near another person, or colliding with a rack.

The detailed rules and conditions for passing should be specified by the exam organiser.

What information is included on the certificate?

Once you have received the document, you should first and foremost check:

• that your first name and surname are correct;
• the type of device covered by the certificate;
• the date of issue and, where applicable, the expiry date;
• the details of the issuer.

Any errors in the details may cause unnecessary difficulties when your employer verifies the document.

What should you do if you fail your forklift exam?

Failing the test does not necessarily mean you have to start the whole training course from the beginning.

It is possible to retake the forklift truck test, have specific skills reassessed, or undertake additional practice.

However, the final procedure depends on the rules adopted by the specific training centre.

How to prepare for your forklift exam

It is worth preparing for the forklift truck test in terms of both theory and practice. Even those with many years’ experience may find it difficult to answer questions about regulations or safety rules, which they do not necessarily have to consciously consider in their day-to-day work.

In the theory section, you should focus primarily on the forklift’s load capacity, load stability, centre of gravity, rules of movement within the warehouse and daily technical checks of the machine. It is also important to be familiar with the markings and information on the rating plate.

A good way to prepare in advance is to take the practice tests available on the Bonapi Training Centre website. These allow you to test your knowledge, familiarise yourself with sample questions and get a better idea of what topics to expect during the theory exam.

What should you practise before the exam?

Before the test, it is a good idea to practise starting off, braking, reversing, turning, parking, positioning the forks, and picking up and setting down pallets.

It is particularly useful to practise manoeuvres in confined spaces, where even a small mistake can have much more serious consequences.

What safety rules are worth knowing?

The most important issues relate to checking the equipment, the maximum load capacity, load stability, appropriate speed, visibility and safe behaviour around pedestrians.

This knowledge is useful not only during the test, but above all in your day-to-day work in the warehouse.

An experienced forklift operator taking the test - how to avoid bad habits?

Experienced operators should pay particular attention to habits picked up during their day-to-day operation of the forklift. Skipping pre-drive checks, taking bends too quickly or transporting loads at the wrong height are examples of behaviour that can affect the test result.

If it has been several years since you last operated a forklift, it is wiser to choose a training course with more practical sessions. After all, the test is designed to assess not only your knowledge of the machine, but above all your ability to operate it safely.

How to renew your forklift certificate in the Netherlands

A forklift certificate isn’t something you should forget about once you’ve completed your training. In the Netherlands, certificates issued by training centres are usually valid for five years, although this is not a standard period set by law.

You can renew your forklift certificate by taking a refresher course (herhalingscursus). This is a shorter training programme designed for operators who already have experience using forklifts. Instead of starting from scratch, participants review essential safety rules, refresh their knowledge, and have their practical skills assessed again.

It’s important to complete your refresher course before your current certificate expires. Once it has expired, you may no longer qualify for the shorter training option, and some training centres may require you to complete the full beginner course again.

Rather than waiting for a reminder from your employer, check your certificate’s expiry date in advance and plan your forklift certificate renewal in the Netherlands before it runs out.

When should you renew your forklift certificate, and what is a refresher course (herhalingscursus)?

A forklift refresher course, known in Dutch as herhalingscursus, is mainly intended for operators who already have experience using forklifts.

The course focuses on reviewing essential safety rules, refreshing existing knowledge, and confirming that the operator can still carry out their tasks safely.

It’s best to schedule your refresher training before your current forklift certificate expires..

Is there an exam when renewing the certificate?

There is usually a reassessment of knowledge and practical skills, including an examination.

This does not necessarily have to be exactly the same as the examination following the basic course. The scope of the assessment depends on the centre, the refresher programme and the type of equipment.

What happens if your forklift certificate expires?

An expired certificate does not automatically mean that the operator has lost all their experience.

It may, however, mean that the employer will require their competence to be re-assessed before they are authorised to operate the machinery.

The certificate has recently expired - can it still be renewed?

If the operator continues to use the forklift truck regularly, some training centres allow them to attend a refresher course even after the previous certificate has expired.

When do you need to take the full forklift course?

A full training course may be the right solution if the operator has not used the forklift for a long time, has significant gaps in their skills, or intends to start operating a different type of forklift.

What does the renewal of a forklift certificate involve?

Renewing a forklift certificate in the Netherlands does not usually require retaking the entire basic course.

The refresher training focuses primarily on up-to-date knowledge, correct practices and practical safety.

Updating health and safety rules and warehouse procedures

Participants are reminded of the most important rules for safe operation, technical inspections and responding to breakdowns.

Procedures relating to vehicle and pedestrian traffic on the premises may also be discussed.

Practical training focused on safety and hazard elimination

During the exercises, greater attention is paid to the operator’s habits, how they observe their surroundings, speed control and the stability of the loads being transported.

Skills assessment during refresher training

The instructor or examiner checks whether the participant is operating the equipment correctly, carrying out manoeuvres safely and responding appropriately to potential hazards.

It is consistency in adhering to safety rules that is of the utmost importance.

Forklift certificate renewal for different types of forklifts - heftruck, reachtruck and EPT

Not every warehouse forklift requires the same skills. Therefore, the scope of the training and the certificate awarded should correspond to the equipment that the operator actually uses.

Forklift trucks and reach trucks - are the certificates renewed separately?

Forklift trucks and reach trucks differ in terms of design, control systems and application.

Therefore, the renewal of a forklift truck certificate should cover the skills required to operate a forklift truck, whilst the renewal of a reach truck certificate should confirm competence in operating a high-reach truck.

Combined training courses are also possible if the programme covers the relevant types of equipment.

EPT and pallet trucks - when is a certificate required?

In the case of EPT electric pallet trucks, the extent of the training required depends on the type of equipment and the hazards involved in its operation.

Even if the employer does not require a separate certificate, the operator should receive appropriate training and instructions on the safe use of the equipment.

How should you choose a training course to suit an operator’s duties?

Not every warehouse uses the same type of forklift. In one company, an operator mainly operates a counterbalanced forklift; in another, a reach truck; and in yet another, they must regularly use several different types of equipment.

Therefore, before choosing a training course, it is worth checking what types of forklifts will be used in a particular role. A certificate covering only forklift trucks does not automatically confirm the ability to operate a reach truck or an EPT.

For those seeking greater flexibility, the 3-in-1 forklift truck course available at the Bonapi Training Centre is a good option. During a single training session, participants acquire the skills to operate three types of equipment: forklift trucks, reach trucks and electric pallet trucks (EPTs).

This means there is no need to enrol on three separate courses, and the broader scope of the certification helps to avoid the limitations associated with holding a certificate for just one type of forklift. This is a particularly practical solution for those who change roles, move between warehouses or wish to expand their career prospects.

Forklift training at Bonapi Training Center

Whether you’re just starting out as a forklift operator or already have many years’ experience, the right training course will help you organise your knowledge and validate your skills.

At the Bonapi Training Centre in Spijkenisse, we organise forklift training courses, including heftruck, reachtruck and EPT. Courses are available tailored to participants’ levels of experience.

Would you like to obtain a certificate or find out how to renew it?

Check out the courses available at the Bonapi Training Centre and choose one that suits your experience.