Examination Practice Questions And

Illinois Forklift Operator Certification Examination Practice Questions And Correct Answers (Verified Answers) Plus Rationales 2026 Q&A | Instant Download Pdf

• What is the primary purpose of a forklift’s counterweight?
• To increase engine power
• To stabilize the forklift and prevent tipping
• To lift heavier loads
• To improve fuel efficiency
• To stabilize the forklift and prevent tipping

Rationale: The counterweight at the rear of the forklift balances the

weight of the load being lifted, reducing the risk of tipping forward.

• Which OSHA standard governs powered industrial trucks in the

workplace? 1 / 4

A. OSHA 1910.178

B. OSHA 1926.21

C. OSHA 1910.120

D. OSHA 1910.22

A. OSHA 1910.178

Rationale: OSHA standard 1910.178 specifically covers the safe

operation, training, and maintenance of powered industrial trucks, including forklifts.

3. Before operating a forklift, the operator should always:

• Check the tires and load capacity
• Inspect the forklift for damage
• Test the brakes and controls
• All of the above
• All of the above

Rationale: Pre-operation inspections ensure the forklift is safe to

operate, preventing accidents caused by mechanical failure.

• What is the maximum slope a forklift can safely operate on when fully

loaded?

• 5%

B. 10%

C. 15%

D. 20%

B. 10% 2 / 4

Rationale: Operating on slopes greater than 10% can increase the

risk of tipping, especially when the forklift is fully loaded.

5. When driving a forklift, the safest method for turning is to:

• Turn with the load raised high
• Turn slowly with the load low and tilted back
• Turn quickly to save time
• Turn while reversing
• Turn slowly with the load low and tilted back

Rationale: Keeping the load low and tilted back maintains stability

and reduces the chance of tipping.

• How should a forklift operator travel with an elevated load?
• With the load at full height for visibility
• With the load as low as possible
• Tilted forward for speed
• Lifted above eye level
• With the load as low as possible

Rationale: Traveling with the load low reduces the forklift’s center of

gravity, improving stability and safety.

• Which of the following can cause a forklift to tip over?
• Sudden turns
• Uneven surfaces
• Overloading
• All of the above 3 / 4

• All of the above

Rationale: Forklifts are prone to tipping if overloaded, turned too

sharply, or driven on uneven terrain.

8. The “load center” of a forklift refers to:

• The maximum weight the forklift can lift
• The horizontal distance from the front wheels to the load’s center

of gravity

• The vertical height of the mast
• The rear axle position
• The horizontal distance from the front wheels to the load’s center

of gravity

Rationale: The load center affects stability; if the load is too far

forward, it can cause the forklift to tip.

• What should you do if a load blocks your view while driving a forklift?
• Drive faster to pass obstacles
• Drive backward if possible or get a spotter
• Raise the load higher for visibility
• Proceed carefully forward
• Drive backward if possible or get a spotter

Rationale: Operating with an obstructed view increases the risk of

collisions; using a spotter or reversing safely mitigates hazards.

• How often should forklift operators complete formal training?
• Once at hiring only
• / 4