Forklift driver authorisation template (PDF) – written authorisation under DGUV Regulation 68
Form for the written authorisation of forklift drivers with evidence of age, fitness, training and familiarisation, permitted trucks and areas of use, duties and signatures – plus an overview of all authorised drivers.
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Forklifts and other industrial trucks with a driver's seat or stand may only be operated by people who are at least 18 years old, fit and trained, have proven their competence and have been authorised in writing by the employer (Section 7 (1) DGUV Regulation 68). The “forklift licence” (Staplerschein) only proves the training – only those with a written authorisation (Fahrauftrag) may drive in the company.
The template records what was checked before the authorisation, which industrial trucks, attachments and areas it covers and which duties the driver has. On the second page you keep an overview of all authorised drivers with their training and instruction dates.
What the template contains
- PDF form for the written authorisation with details of the company, the driver and the training certificate
- Checklist of requirements: age, fitness, training under DGUV Principle 308-001, familiarisation and instruction
- Scope of the authorisation by industrial truck, attachment and area of use, plus seven driver duties
- Second page: overview of all authorised drivers with instruction dates
How to use the template
- 1
Check the requirements
Ask to see the training certificate, file a copy and clarify fitness. Familiarisation on the specific truck and instruction on your company rules come before the authorisation.
- 2
Issue the authorisation
Enter trucks, attachments and areas of use, go through the duties and have both sides sign. The driver receives a copy.
- 3
Keep the overview up to date
List every authorisation in the overview on the second page and plan the annual safety instruction there. If the truck or area of use changes, familiarisation and a new authorisation are required.
Legal basis
- Section 7 DGUV Regulation 68: minimum age 18, fitness, training, proof of competence and written authorisation to operate industrial trucks
- Section 12 (3) of the Ordinance on Industrial Safety and Health (BetrSichV) and TRBS 1116: authorisation for work equipment with special hazards
- DGUV Principle 308-001: qualification and authorisation of drivers of industrial trucks
- Section 12 of the Occupational Safety and Health Act (ArbSchG) and Section 4 DGUV Regulation 1: safety instruction before starting work and at least once a year
Frequently asked questions
Is a written authorisation mandatory for forklift drivers?
Yes. For industrial trucks with a driver's seat or stand, Section 7 (1) DGUV Regulation 68 explicitly requires a written authorisation. No particular form is prescribed – what matters is that it is clear who may operate which truck in which area.
How long is a driver authorisation valid?
There is no fixed term. The authorisation applies only in the issuing company and only to the trucks and areas listed – after a change of employer, a new one is needed. You must withdraw it if there are doubts about competence, for example after accidents or near misses, or if the requirements are no longer met.
Do I also need an authorisation for an electric pallet truck?
For pedestrian-controlled industrial trucks, fitness and instruction in their handling are sufficient (Section 7 (2) DGUV Regulation 68); a written authorisation is not required, but recommended as proof. Exception: trucks with an operator platform and a speed above 6 km/h count as industrial trucks with a driver's stand – then training and written authorisation apply.
You may use and adapt the template freely in your own company and for your own clients. It reflects the regulations named as they stand.
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