Forklift training (counterbalance)
Also known as: forklift truck, counterbalance truck
NPORS-certified counterbalance forklift training on gas, electric and diesel machines.
About the course
Our forklift course covers every size and type of counterbalance truck. Novices train over 5 days and experienced workers can take a 1-day test, leaving safe, compliant and site-ready.
What the course covers
The NPORS counterbalance forklift course combines theory and practical learning, covering everything you need to operate safely and competently.
- Counterbalance types and basic functions
- Health & safety legislation and responsibilities
- Daily checks, pre-use inspections and maintenance
- Safe manoeuvring, retrieving and placing loads
- Working around racking
- Operating on different terrains
- Lifting at different heights
- Shutdown and securing procedures
You'll finish with a theory test and practical assessment to earn your NPORS certification.
Format & delivery
- Duration: novice 5 days, or a 1 day experienced worker test
- Location: at our Meopham training centre or on your site
- Areas covered: Kent, London and across the UK
- Equipment: we provide machines at our centre, or train on your on-site equipment
Whether you're booking one person or a full team, we'll adjust the course to your site and your people's experience.
Pick your route
Not sure which one you need? Give us a call and we'll work out the right route for you or your team.
Novice
Starting from zero. No prior experience needed.
Full training, then the theory test and practical assessment.
Experienced worker test
You know the job, you just need the card.
Straight to the theory test and practical assessment, usually in one day.
Refresher
Your card's expiring or you've been off the machine a while.
Half a day to a day to sharpen up, then re-test.
Who should attend
New operators
Little or no experience on the machine.
Some experience
Like a learner driver who's had a few lessons: you don't start again from lesson one. We'll shorten the course to fit.
Experienced workers
Looking to gain or renew NPORS certification.
Employers
Upskilling teams and meeting site safety standards.
We tailor our delivery and pace to the group. No two training sessions are the same.
Reviews
What our trainees say
Very good fork lift training provided by Pole Position. I feel confident enough by the end of the week to go back to work and start driving straight away. I would highly recommend.
Forklift course with Ian very informative and learnt a lot.
Recently, our fitting team attended Platform/Tower training organised by Pole Position Training. From the initial enquiry, the process was smooth and easy. The details of the course were sent through with plenty of notice and instructions for the day clear and concise. We will definitely be using them again for any training needs we have.
Counterbalance forklift training: your questions answered
How much does a forklift training cost?
It depends on whether you need novice training (5 days) or a one-day experienced worker test, how many people you're booking, and whether we train at our Meopham centre or on your site. Call 0330 122 4427 or send an enquiry and we'll give you a clear, fixed quote with no hidden costs.
How long does counterbalance forklift training take?
Novice training takes 5 days. If you already operate the machine, the experienced worker test takes 1 day. A refresher before a re-test is usually half a day to a day.
Which card will I get?
Pass the theory test and practical assessment and you'll receive an NPORS card. Without an NVQ that's the Trained Operator (red) card, valid for two years. Complete the Level 2 NVQ, which we also run, to upgrade to the five-year Competent Operator (blue) card. You'll need to have passed the health, safety and environment touch screen test within two years of applying. You can work on any site with an NPORS card. The NPORS CSCS version is the one Tier 1 construction companies require, and some Tier 2 contractors ask for it too. If you don't need it, the NPORS Traditional card lasts 3 or 5 years.
Do I need any experience?
No. The novice course is for people starting from zero. If you've got some experience, it's a bit like a learner driver who's already had a few lessons: we can shorten the course to fit. And if you've operated the machine for years but never got the ticket, the one-day experienced worker test is the quickest route.
How many people can you train at once?
Machinery courses run in groups of 3 to 6 people, so everyone gets proper seat time. Group and multi-course discounts are available.
Do you offer CPCS as well as NPORS?
We train and test on the NPORS scheme. If you need CPCS, we can arrange it through our network of trusted trainers.
Can you train on our site and our own machine?
Yes. We regularly train on customers' sites and equipment across Kent, London and the UK. If your site isn't suitable, train at our centre at Crab Tree Close, Meopham, Kent TN15 7JL, where we provide the machine.
How does payment work?
Scheduled courses booked online are paid by card when you book. For quoted group or on-site training there's no deposit: payment is due 7 days before the course, or on the day.
Forklift training near you
At our Meopham centre or on your site.
Helpful guides
Book counterbalance forklift training
Tell us how many delegates, their experience and where you'd like to train, on your site anywhere in the UK or at our Meopham centre. No deposit needed: payment is due 7 days before the course, or on the day.
Thanks, we've got your enquiry
Eleanor will be in touch shortly. If it's urgent, call 0330 122 4427.