Description

CPCS A16 Industrial Forklift Truck Course

Gain the CPCS Red Trained Operator Card required to operate an industrial forklift safely and legally on UK construction, warehouse, and yard environments.

Group bookings and on‑site delivery available. Contact us for a quote — our team typically responds within one working day.

About the Course

The CPCS A16 Industrial Forklift Truck course trains candidates to operate an industrial forklift safely, efficiently, and in line with industry regulations. The programme covers safe operation, pre‑use checks, load handling, manoeuvring, and the CPCS technical test requirements.

Training is delivered by experienced instructors and includes both theory and practical elements to prepare candidates for the CPCS theory and practical tests.

Who Is This Course For?

This course is ideal for:

• Individuals new to forklift operations
• Operatives requiring CPCS certification
• Warehouse, yard, and construction site operatives
• Those progressing into plant or material‑handling roles

Key Course Information

• Accreditation: CPCS
• Duration: 3 Days
• Test Only Option: Available for experienced operators
• Card Validity: 2 Years
• CITB Grant: Available
• Finance Options: Flexible payment options available
• Location: Nationwide

Entry Requirements

To attend the CPCS A16 course or test, candidates must have:

• A valid CITB Health, Safety & Environment (HS&E) Test passed within the last 2 years
• A good understanding of spoken and written English

What You Will Learn

• Identify principal components, controls, and terminology
• Understand manufacturer requirements, regulations, and operator handbook guidance
• Carry out all pre‑use checks
• Understand required documentation and reporting
• Configure and prepare the forklift for travel
• Manoeuvre safely in confined spaces with and without loads
• Configure the forklift for lifting and load transfer duties
• Identify hazards including underground and overhead services
• Lift, remove, transfer, and place loads at full working height
• Load and unload vehicles safely
• Maintain safe working areas and working practices
• Carry out shutdown and securing procedures
• Understand loading and unloading procedures for machine transport

Assessment

• Two (2) days of  classroom-based and practical training
• One (1) day of CPCS theory and practical testing

Please note: Candidates taking the test‑only route should already have substantial, recent on‑site experience operating an industrial forklift. We strongly advise gaining practical experience before attempting the CPCS tests, as the assessment requires confident, competent operation in real working conditions.

Certification

Candidates who pass both tests receive the CPCS Red Trained Operator Card for the A16 Industrial Forklift category, valid for 2 years.

CITB Grant Funding

If you’re an employer registered with the CITB, you may be able to claim grant funding to offset the cost of this course. Grants are paid per candidate and can significantly reduce the investment for your business.

Our team can walk you through the eligibility criteria and help you submit your application. Visit the CITB grants page for current rates, or call us to discuss.

Progression – Upgrade to Blue Card

To upgrade to the CPCS Blue Competent Operator Card, candidates must complete:

• Level 2 NVQ in Plant Operations – Fork Lift Trucks, and
• A valid HS&E Test

We can support you with NVQ pathways and progression planning.

Official CPCS Resources

For full details on the CPCS A16 Industrial Forklift Truck tests, including the practice theory questions and practical test specification, please visit the official CPCS (NOCN Job Cards) website:

• CPCS A16 Industrial Forklift Truck – Theory Test Practice Questions
• CPCS A16 Industrial Forklift Truck – Practical Test Specification

Course PDF Download

Download the full CPCS A16 Industrial Forklift Truck course PDF.

Download CPCS A16 Course PDF

Ready to Book?

Check availability, get a quote, or secure your place on the next available course date. Our team will get back to you within one working day.