Forklifts in road traffic: Requirements for use
Forklifts find their place in numerous companies. However, when it comes to their use on public roads, special requirements are placed on both the equipment of the forklifts and the qualifications of the drivers.
Additional requirements in road traffic
The use of forklift trucks in road traffic requires not only compliance with the accident prevention regulations for industrial trucks (DGUV regulation 68), but also the strict observance of the provisions of road traffic law. These include the Road Traffic Act (StVG), the Road Traffic Regulations (StVO), the Road Traffic Licensing Regulations (StVZO), the Vehicle Licensing Regulations (FZV) and the Driving Licensing Regulations (FeV).
The special conditions arise from the fact that certain business premises can be considered to be an integral part of public road traffic, provided that they can be used by persons who are not part of the business.
Public road traffic explained
The definition of public road traffic comes from the Road Traffic Regulations (StVO), which state that public traffic also takes place on non-dedicated roads, provided that these are actually used by the general public with the consent of the person in charge. The distinction between public and restricted public transport is the responsibility of the competent authorities.
If company premises are accessible to non-company persons, such as freely accessible company areas, parking lots or loading and unloading zones, this could be considered public road traffic. Even putting up signs such as "Visitors only" does not necessarily exclude the public.
Equipment for road traffic
The requirements for the equipment of forklift trucks in road traffic are laid down in the Road Traffic Licensing Regulations (StVZO). However, there may be exceptions, particularly if forklift trucks cannot drive faster than 25 km/h due to their design. The following graphic for forklift trucks with a maximum design speed of no more than 25 km/h" can provide more information on this.
Special permit for short distances
If forklifts regularly only travel short distances on public roads, an exemption permit may be available. In such cases, no additional requirements under the StVZO may be necessary. However, conditions such as day trips or the presence of a second person as a guide may be linked to the permit.
Registration requirements and insurance
Forklifts that, due to their design, cannot travel faster than 20 km/h are exempt from registration and vehicle tax in accordance with the Vehicle Registration Ordinance (FZV). However, liability insurance to cover personal injury, property damage and financial loss is essential.
Vehicles that can reach speeds of over 20 km/h must still be registered and carry an official license plate. Third-party liability insurance remains required in all cases.
Qualification of drivers
Forklift drivers who drive on public roads must have a valid driving license issued by the relevant authority. This license is divided into classes based on factors such as maximum speed, permissible total weight and when it was issued. A special permit may be required to operate on public roads.
It is crucial to take these regulations into account to ensure road safety and avoid possible legal consequences. Additional resources can be found on the website of the Trade and Goods Logistics Association.
Qualification of drivers | |||
design-related top speed | maximum weight allowed | Driving license class (old) | Driving license classes (new) |
bis 6 km/h | no limit | no | no |
over 6 km / h | up to 7,5 t | Class 3 | C1, C1 E, B, BE, L, M; upon request CE with restriction to trains previously falling into class 3 |
over 6 km / h | over 7,5 t | Class 2 | C, CE, C1, C1 E, B, BE, L, M, T |
Exception*): over 6 km/h to 25 km/h | no limit | Class 5 | L |
*) provided the driving license was issued before 01.01.1989.
Important legal notice
Please note that the information presented in this article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. We are not lawyers or traffic or employment law experts. The rules and regulations described are subject to change and it is advisable to obtain up-to-date information from relevant authorities or legal professionals before making any decisions or taking any action.
Legal requirements and regulations may vary depending on location, time and specific situation. It is recommended that you always familiarize yourself with current laws and regulations and seek professional legal advice where necessary to ensure that you are properly informed and acting in accordance with the law. We assume no liability for any actions or decisions taken based on the information in this article.