Whether you’re involved in logistics, construction, or engineering, mastering forklift operations enhances your value to any team. Effective handling of heavy goods and cargo is essential, and forklift certification is highly valued across these sectors.
Since the implementation of the Workforce Skills Qualifications (WSQ) “Operate Forklift” Competency Standard on 1 October 2009, endorsed by Singapore’s Workforce Development Agency (WDA), Ministry of Manpower (MOM), and Workplace Safety and Health (WSH) Council, it’s mandatory for all forklift operators to be adequately trained and show necessary competencies.
Furthermore, as part of a new training requirement under Section 31(4) of the Workplace Safety and Health Act, MOM has announced that all forklift operators will be required to attend a refresher course at least once every three years. This requirement will take effect from 1 January 2027, giving operators and employers time to complete the necessary training.
Looking for a training centre to take a forklift course or refresher course? This guide compares training providers across Singapore, including their course fees, durations, entry requirements and key details to help you choose the right option.
1. NTUC Learning Hub
NTUC Learning Hub offers a wide array of training solutions and services, with a strong focus on Workplace Safety and Health (WSH) standards, enhancing their reliability and credibility. Their diverse course offerings cater to a range of professionals including workers, managers, supervisors, and tradespeople, ensuring comprehensive skill development across various levels.
These are the costs and durations of the respective forklift courses offered by NTUC Learning Hub:
The 5-day course covers similar content as the 3-day one, but at a slower pace for learners who require more time to learn effectively, especially for those without a Land Transport Authority (LTA) Class 3 driving licence. In addition, there is also a 1-day Refresher Course for forklift operators who have attended the “Forklift Operator’s Training Course” more than 3 years ago.
In general, both the WSQ Operate Forklift courses aim to educate trainees in 4 essential aspects:
- Preparation of Forklift before Operating
- Operating a Forklift
- Inspecting a Forklift
- Reinstatement and Handing Over of Forklift
The course focuses heavily on both theory and practical training, with highly trained professionals as mentors throughout the course. NTUC Learning Hub also provides industry-standard, high-quality forklifts throughout the course for trainees to become adept in the operations of a forklift.
Upon successful completion of the 3-day or 5-day WSQ Operate Forklift course, trainees will receive a Safety Pass from NTUC LearningHub and a Statement of Attainment (SOA) from SkillsFuture Singapore (SSG).
Prerequisites
- Above 18 years of age
- Possess a valid LTA Class 3 driving licence (for the 3-day course only)
- Those who have failed the practical assessment for the 2nd time will have to retake the entire course
- Compulsory to wear safety shoes and proper attire (no singlet/ shorts/ bermudas)
Requirements to Pass
- 100% attendance to the course
- Pass a theory assessment (30 minutes test)
- Pass a practical assessment (45 minutes test)
Funding
- Skills Development Fund (SDF), Small and Medium Enterprises (SME), Workfare Training Support (WTS) funding available for corporate registrations
- WTS funding available for individual trainees
- Applicable for SkillsFuture funding for Singapore Citizens and Permanent Residents (PR) aged 25 and above and Singapore Citizens aged 40 and above
Contact
Phone: 6336 5482
WhatsApp: 8488 5482
2. PSA Institute
Founded in 1962, PSA Institute has established itself as a pivotal training entity that has significantly influenced Singapore’s Shipping and Logistics industries. With decades of expertise, they have successfully trained over 700,000 participants, including both Singaporeans and foreigners. The institute offers a diverse array of courses, encompassing lifting, signalling, rigging, working at height, safety, and port operations, continuing to shape the skills of industry professionals today.
Stated below are the costs and duration of the respective forklift courses provided by PSA Institute:
PSA Institute offers a specialised suite of forklift training programmes tailored to different skill levels. Besides the standard beginner’s WSQ Operate Forklift Courses, they also provide advanced courses suitable for intermediate and seasoned forklift operators. The beginner courses are split into two separate modules: one for theory and one for practical skills, each designed to accommodate the pace and learning needs of new operators.
The Theory segment of the WSQ Operate Forklift Course is available in English and Mandarin, allowing for a broader reach among trainees. The Practical segment, on the other hand, is conducted in English and offers two options: a 2-day course for those with a Class 3 driving licence and a 4-day course for those without, ensuring comprehensive hands-on training tailored to each participant’s licensing status.
The topics covered aim to help the trainee attain the skills stated below, which are highly relevant to today’s industrial needs. The theory and practical-based topics are as follows:
- Workplace Safety and Health Act
- Forklift Introduction
- Daily Safety Checks
- Forklift Capability, Limitations and Stability Issues
- Cargo Symbols and Instructions
- Operation Basics and Traffic Management
PSA Institute prioritises a methodical training approach, using only their proprietary training materials and curriculum, and emphasising adherence to local operational contexts. This structured separation of theory and practice allows participants to absorb necessary knowledge effectively without overwhelming them. The experienced instructors at PSA ensure the training adheres to high standards, with successful participants receiving a Certificate of Completion and a Statement of Attainment (SOA) from the Workforce Development Agency (WDA).
Prerequisites
- At least 18 years of age with no medical or physical disability preventing the efficient use of a forklift
- Applicants above 60 years of age must produce a medical certificate of physical fitness
- Theory course must be completed before attempting the Practical segment
Requirements to Pass
- Pass the Theory Test
- Pass the Practical Test
Funding
- Applicable to SDF and Skills Redevelopment Programme (SRP)
Contact
Phone: 6279 4458
Email: psainstitute@globalpsa.com
3. AAT Training Hub
AAT Training Hub has been around since 2005, and has trained over 15,000 forklift personnel since its inception. They are accredited by major government agencies such as WDA, MOM, Singapore Civil Defence Force as well as the International Air Transport Association. They provide various aviation-based courses, safety, construction and WSQ-based courses as well, apart from forklift courses. Similar to PSA Institute, AAT Training Hub also provides Refresher courses for intermediate and advanced forklift users.
Here are the costs and duration of the respective forklift courses offered at AAT Training Hub:
At AAT Training Hub, the WSQ Operate Forklift courses comprehensively cover both technical and administrative functions essential for forklift operation. Similar to NTUC Learning Hub, AAT Training Hub offers two distinct courses: a 3-day course and an extended 4-day course designed to accommodate learners who do not possess an LTA Class 3 driver’s licence and may benefit from a more paced learning experience. These courses adhere strictly to the WSQ Standard and include:
- Preparation of forklift before operating
- Operating a forklift
- Inspecting a forklift
- Reinstatement and handing over of forklift
In addition to forklift training, AAT Training Hub also offers specialised courses for reach trucks and pallet trucks, expanding the scope of their training solutions. As pioneers in private training for material handling equipment, AAT Training Hub has earned accreditation from major government agencies, highlighting its commitment to safety and reliability. Their emphasis on high-quality education ensures that upon completing their courses, participants receive a Statement of Attainment (SOA) from the Workforce Development Agency (WDA).
Prerequisites
- Possess a valid LTA Class 3 driving licence (for the 3-day course only)
- Trainees above a certain age group must produce a medical certificate of physical fitness
Requirements to Pass
- Completion of entire course
Funding
- Applicable for SkillsFuture Credit and PSEA
Locations
- Woodlands Loop Branch (24 Woodlands Lp., Singapore 738285)
- Woodlands E9 Hub (61 Woodlands Industrial Park E9, #03-29, Singapore 757047)
- Enterprise One Location (1 Kaki Bukit Rd 1, #03-22, Singapore 415934)
- Pioneer Centre Campus (1 Soon Lee St, #04-21, #04-67, Singapore 627605)
- Farrer Park (320 Serangoon Rd, #11-08, Singapore 218108)
Contact
Phone: 6292 4804
WhatsApp: 9017 7049
Email: admin@aattraininghub.com
4. Tat Hong Training Services
Tat Hong Training Centre was established in 1999 and provides skills-based training for various industries. Located at Woodlands Spectrum 1, the centre offers forklift training and refresher courses to help operators stay updated on safe operating practices.
The costs and duration of the forklift courses at Tat Hong Training Centre are as listed below:
The objective of the WSQ Operate Forklift courses is to properly equip trainees with the skills and knowledge required to carry out forklift operations safely and efficiently. There are two segments to the course, which are the theory and practical portions. Some of the main elements of the training include:
- Preparing and learning how to carry out a forklift operation
- Inspecting a forklift before operations
- Forklift operations
- Maintenance procedures after forklift operations
Depending on whether you have a Class 3 driving licence, the course will be either 3 or 4 days. Upon completion of the course, trainees will be awarded an SOA under the Singapore WSQ Framework. Should participants fail the final assessment, they will also be allowed to retake either the theory or practical portion.
Prerequisites
- At least 18 years of age
- Singaporean, PR or holder of a valid employment pass or work permit
- Physically and mentally fit for training
- Able to read and write simple English
- Learners above 70 years of age must produce a medical certificate to prove that you’re physically fit.
Requirements to Pass
- Pass theory assessment
- Pass practical assessment
Funding
- Applicable for SkillsFuture Credit
- Funding may be available for eligible learners. Final payable fees should be confirmed with the training provider before registration.
Locations
- Woodlands (2 Woodlands Sector 1, #01-03 Woodlands Spectrum 1, Singapore 738068)
- Tuas (Tuas Lot, 50 Tuas Ave, #02-12, Singapore 639107)
Contact
Phone: 6269 5269
Email: sales@thtc.com.sg
5. Wong Fong Academy
Wong Fong Academy, a subsidiary of Wong Fong Engineering, has a clear vision of being a leader in Singapore’s Continuing Education and Training sector. They place a strong emphasis on instilling workplace safety practices in all learners so that everyone can play their part in taking personal responsibility for safety. With academies in the east, west and north, the team at Wong Fong hopes to make their courses accessible to all interested individuals.
Here are the costs and duration of the respective forklift courses available at Wong Fong Academy:
Wong Fong Academy offers forklift courses for learners with and without a Class 3 driving licence. Individuals without a Class 3 driving licence are required to undertake a 1-day theory lesson followed by a 3-day practical session, while those with a licence complete the same theory lesson but only a 2-day practical session. This structure allows participants the flexibility to attend theory and practical sessions separately, according to their convenience based on the scheduled dates.
Upon successful completion of the course and assessment, trainees will receive a Safety Pass issued by Wong Fong Academy Pte Ltd.
Prerequisites
- Above 18 years of age
- Able to interpret work instructions and technical information
- Able to understand, read, write and speak English at a proficiency level equivalent to level 3 of the ESS (Applies to English Courses only)
- Able to process numbers at a proficiency level equivalent to Workplace Numeracy Level 3
Requirements to Pass
- Complete the entire course and be certified as competent
Funding
- Applicable for SkillsFuture Credit
- Claimable under SkillsFuture Credit for Singaporeans aged 25 and above
Locations
- Joo Koon Centre (Tai Seng Centre, 3 Irving Road, #01-11, Singapore 369522)
- Kaki Bukit (Enterprise One, 1 Kaki Bukit Road 1, #04-41, Singapore 415934)
- Woodlands (Wave 9, 71 Woodlands Industrial Park E9, #01-10, Singapore 757048)
- People’s Park (People’s Park Complex, 1 Park Road, #04-22/23, Singapore 059108)
Contact
Phone: 6863 3686
Email: sales@wfa.sg
6. UBTS Training Centre
UBTS Training Centre is an award-winning Approved Training Organisation by the WDA. Through their courses, they seek to offer modified learning based on each participant’s needs and to equip participants with the necessary skills to contribute to a safe workplace.
The costs and durations of the respective forklift courses at UBTS Training Centre are as listed below:
UBTS offers a comprehensive suite of WSQ Forklift Operation courses for learners with and without a Class 3 driving licence. Learners with a valid LTA Class 3 driving licence can complete the course in three days, totalling 22 hours. Those without a Class 3 licence will need to attend the longer 3.5-day, 33-hour training programme.
Additionally, UBTS provides a 12-hour Forklift Refresher Course priced at $210 nett, aimed at updating the skills of current operators. The core WSQ Operate Forklift Course spans 3 days with a cost of $280 nett, and an extended full course option runs for 3.5 days at $520 nett. These courses comprehensively cover essential topics through both theory and practical lessons. Some topics include:
- Parts of forklift and their functions
- Inspect forklift
- Reinstate and hand over forklift
After completing the course and passing all required assessments, participants will receive the Safety Pass awarded by UBTS Training Centre and WSQ SOA.
Prerequisites
- At least 21 years old
- Trainees above 60 years old must be certified to be medically fit to attend the training course
- Singaporean, PR or holder of a valid employment pass or work permit
- Able to understand, read, write and speak English at a proficiency level equivalent to level 3 of the ESS
- Able to process numbers at a proficiency level equivalent to Workplace Numeracy Level 3
- Able to read and understand manufacturer’s instructions, procedures and safety signs
- Have a good sense of situational awareness and safety consciousness
Requirements to Pass
- For Operate Forklift Course, Operate Forklift Course Full Course and Forklift Refresher Course: Learners must achieve a minimum score of 60% for the written assessment and 100% for the practical assessment to pass the course.
- For Operate Heavy Forklift Course: Learners must achieve at least 75% physical attendance to be eligible for the end-of-course assessment. Those who pass the assessment will be awarded a Certificate of Attendance/Performance.
Funding
- WTS and SDF funding available
- Applications of funding through Skills Connect
- Applicable for SkillsFuture Credit
Location
- UBTS Hub (8 Tanjong Penjuru, Block A, Singapore 609019)
Contact
Phone: 6425 6787 / 9747 9922
Email: training@ubts.com.sg
7. Absolute Kinetics Consultancy
Absolute Kinetics Consultancy, also known as AKC, offers workplace safety and skills-based training across several areas, including forklift and MEWP courses. Its forklift courses are suitable for learners with and without a Class 3 driving licence, as well as existing operators who need refresher training.
The table below summarises the forklift course durations and fees for forklift courses listed by Absolute Kinetics Consultancy:
| Course | Duration | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Operate Forklift course (Refresher) | 12 hours | For Singapore citizens aged 39 years and below: $132.16 For Singapore citizens aged 40 years and above: $87.36 For foreigners: $244.16 |
| WSQ Operate Forklift Course | 4 days | For Singapore citizens aged 39 years and below: $362.26 For Singapore citizens aged 40 years and above: $239.46 For foreigners: $669.26 |
| WSQ Operate Forklift Course (Requires Class 3 Licence) | 21 hours | For Singapore citizens aged 39 years and below: $240.72 For Singapore citizens aged 40 years and above: $159.12 For foreigners: $444.72 |
| Operate Heavy Forklift | 16.5 hours | $724.85 |
Absolute Kinetics Consultancy offers WSQ Operate Forklift courses for learners with and without a Class 3 driving licence. Learners with a valid Class 3 driving licence can complete the course in three days, totalling 21 hours. Those without a Class 3 licence can take the longer forklift course, which is offered across multiple schedules and training locations. AKC also provides a forklift refresher course for existing operators who need to update their skills.
The course covers both theory and practical training to help learners operate forklifts safely and in line with workplace safety requirements. Some topics include:
- Preparing to carry out forklift operations
- Inspecting the forklift before use
- Carrying out forklift operations
- Reinstating and handing over the forklift
To complete the course successfully, learners must meet the 100% attendance requirement and take a theory and practical assessment. Upon completion, AKC will issue a course card to the learner, which is valid for three years.
Prerequisites
- At least 18 years old
- Physically fit and in good health
- Able to listen, speak, read and write English at an ESS Level 3 equivalent
- Able to process numbers at an ESS Level 3 equivalent
- Must hold a valid Class 3 driving licence issued by Singapore LTA or the Malaysian government for the shorter course
Exam Format
- Theory assessment: 30 MCQs, 45 minutes
- Practical assessment: Hands-on, 45 minutes
Funding
- Subsidised fees available for eligible Singapore Citizens and PRs
- Applicable for SkillsFuture Credit
- Applicable for SkillsFuture Funding
Location
- Bukit Batok (33 Hillview Ter, Singapore 669253)
- Woodlands (2 Woodlands Sector 1, #01-19 Spectrum 1, Singapore 738068)
- Joo Koon (6 Third Lok Yang Rd, Singapore 628001)
- MacPherson (1 Harrison Rd, Singapore 369652)
Contact
Phone: 6690 5555
Email: enquiry@sg-akc.com
Comparison of Forklift Courses in Singapore
Quality
All the 7 stated institutes for taking the WSQ Operate Forklift courses employ capable and experienced professionals as mentors while being long-standing educational agencies with the required accreditation.
Flexibility
PSA Institute and Wong Fong Academy stand out by providing 2 separate courses (theory and practical), which the trainees do not have to take continuously.
Cost
| Institute | For those with LTA Class 3 driving licence | For those without LTA Class 3 driving licence | Refresher Course |
|---|---|---|---|
| UBTS Training Centre | $280.00 | $520.00 | $210.00 |
| Tat Hong Training Centre | $348.80 | $583.15 | $272.50 |
| AAT Training Hub | $359.70 | $566.80 | $238.80 |
| Wong Fong Academy | $359.70 | $577.70 | $228.90 |
| NTUC Learning Hub | $414.20 | $632.20 | $218.00 |
| Absolute Kinetics Consultancy | $444.72 | $669.26 | $244.16 |
| PSA Institute | N/A; offers specialised courses | N/A; offers specialised courses | N/A; offers specialised courses |
Based on the listed fees, UBTS Training Centre offers the most affordable forklift course for learners with and without a Class 3 driving licence. It also offers the most affordable refresher course among the various training centres in Singapore.
For the shorter forklift courses designed for individuals who already hold an LTA Class 3 driving licence, UBTS Training Centre offers the lowest course fees, followed by Tat Hong Training Centre and Wong Fong Academy. For individuals without an LTA Class 3 driving licence, UBTS Training Centre also offers the most affordable course, followed by AAT Training Hub and Wong Fong Academy.
Prerequisites
A summary of the main prerequisites is presented in the table below.
| Institute | Must be Singaporean, PR or holder of valid employment pass or work permit | Must be physically and mentally fit | Required to provide medical cert of physical fitness | Must be able to understand, read, write and speak English | Others |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NTUC | 2nd time failures will have to retake the entire course | ||||
| PSA | ✓ | Above 60 years of age | |||
| AAT | Above a certain age (not specified) | ||||
| Tat Hong | ✓ | ✓ | Basic | ||
| Wong Fong | ESS Level 3 | Workplace Numeracy Level 3 | |||
| UBTS | ✓ | Above 60 years of age | ESS Level 3 | Workplace Numeracy Level 3 | |
| AKC | ✓ | ESS Level 3 | Workplace Numeracy Level 3 |
Forklift Refresher Course Requirements
All 7 institutes require passing their theory and practical assessments. Some courses may also have minimum attendance requirements, such as 100% attendance for selected WSQ forklift courses.
Funding
The table below shows a summary of all the funding options available at each institute.
| Institute | SDF | WTS | SME | SRP | Skills Connect | Skills Future Funding | Skills Future Credits |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NTUC | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | |||
| PSA | ✓ | ✓ | |||||
| AAT | ✓ | ||||||
| Tat Hong | ✓ | ✓ | |||||
| Wong Fong | ✓ | ✓ | |||||
| UBTS | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ||||
| AKC | ✓ | ✓ |
NTUC Learning Hub offers the most avenues for funding at both corporate and individual levels, followed by UBTS Training Centre.
Forklift Licence Validity In Singapore
Under the guidelines of the Singapore Standards Council SS573:2012, it is mandatory for forklift operators to attend a refresher course every three years. This regulation ensures that operators remain well-informed about the latest safety practices and procedures, thereby maintaining high standards of operational safety.
Getting A Forklift Licence in Singapore
In conclusion, numerous institutes across Singapore offer a variety of forklift courses, each providing unique advantages in terms of flexibility, cost, and additional benefits. The key to continual professional development lies in an individual’s commitment to self-improvement. With ample grants and funding available from the government for both corporate and individual learners, there’s no better time to enhance your skills.
Ready to advance your career with forklift training? Explore our comprehensive forklift rental services or discover our extensive range of forklifts for sale. Take the next step in your professional journey today!
FAQs About Forklift Courses in Singapore
How much does a forklift course cost in Singapore?
A forklift course in Singapore can cost around $280 to $670, depending on the training provider, course type and funding eligibility. Refresher courses may cost less than full WSQ forklift courses.
Do I need a Class 3 licence to take a forklift course?
No. Some providers offer forklift courses for learners without a Class 3 driving licence. However, learners with a Class 3 licence may be able to take a shorter course.
Is forklift refresher training compulsory in Singapore?
From 1 January 2027, forklift operators must attend refresher training at least once every three years. This helps operators stay updated on forklift safety practices and workplace requirements.
Can I use SkillsFuture Credit for a forklift course?
Eligible Singapore Citizens may be able to use SkillsFuture Credit for approved forklift courses. Learners should check directly with the training provider before registering.
Which forklift course provider is the cheapest in Singapore?
UBTS Training Centre appears to offer one of the lowest course fees in Singapore. However, the cheapest option may differ depending on subsidies, GST and whether the learner has a Class 3 driving licence.
