Lost your forklift operator licence - what now?

If you have lost your forklift operator licence, apply for the replacement document directly from the organisation that carried out the original training and issued the document. A new examination is generally not required.

Step 1 - identify the training organisation Anyone who completed the course with the authorised training provider that issued the forklift operator licence should contact it directly. The contact details are often known from the original registration or can be found on the provider's website.

Step 2 - gather documents The following documents are usually required:

• Copy of an identity document (identity card or passport)
• Details of the training date and location (can be reconstructed from old e-mails or payslips)
• If applicable, a loss report (formally required by some providers)

Step 3 - apply for the replacement document and pay the fee Most providers issue the replacement document for an administrative fee. Costs: usually 10-50 euros. Processing time: 5-20 working days, depending on the provider and the archiving status of the records.

If the original training organisation is insolvent or has ceased operations:

Archive search with the legal successor Many training organisations are taken over - the legal successor often continues to keep the records. Information can be found in the commercial register or from industry associations.

Contact the labour inspectorate The competent labour inspectorate can in some cases provide information or help with the reconstruction.

Complete new training If no records can be obtained, the last resort is to repeat the training. Experienced persons can check whether a shorter course is possible.

No - at least not formally. Under Act No. 124/2006 Coll. and Decree No. 356/2007 Coll., appointing a forklift operator requires a valid forklift operator licence. Without the document, the employer cannot formally appoint the employee.

Until the replacement document is issued, the employer can document internally that the qualification demonstrably exists (e.g. through statements from supervisors, old payroll records, course confirmations in the personnel file). This is not a legal basis but a pragmatic interim practice that should be agreed with the safety officer.

Losing the licence can largely be avoided with simple measures:

Choose credit card format: Many providers issue the licence in laminated credit card format (on request or for a surcharge of 5-20 euros). This format is handier and more robust.

Make a digital copy: Scan or photograph the licence immediately after receiving it and store it securely.

Central company archive: Employers with several forklift drivers should keep copies of all licences centrally in their occupational safety documentation.

How much does a replacement forklift operator licence cost?

Usually an administrative fee of 10-50 euros at the provider that issued the licence. Costs vary depending on the provider and document format.

Do I have to take the examination again?

No. The replacement licence is issued without a new examination, provided the issuing provider still has the records of the original training archived.

Is a copy of the forklift operator licence sufficient?

In everyday operations, many employers accept a copy temporarily. Legally, the original document (or the replacement document) is the correct form of proof.

How long does it take to issue the replacement document?

Usually 5-20 working days. Often faster with large providers with a centralised archive; it can take longer with small regional providers.

Luibl Rental provides qualified forklift drivers with the right machine - promptly, throughout Slovakia, ready for use.

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