Do you need a licence to drive a forklift?

Yes, you need a specific license and certification to operate a forklift in India. Under the Factories Act and the Motor Vehicles Act, operators must be trained and certified to ensure workplace safety. If the forklift is operated on public roads, a valid driving license for the relevant vehicle type from the RTO is mandatory. Within industrial premises, employers require a certification from a recognized training institute. This ensures the operator understands safety protocols, load handling, and machine maintenance to prevent accidents.