Does an online course make someone certified?

Both rules require practical training and an evaluation of the operator's performance in the workplace, not only classroom or online instruction.

How long is a Michigan forklift permit good for?

MIOSHA Part 21 says a permit is issued for no more than three years and is valid only with the employer that issued it.

Forklift Operator Training and Permits in Michigan (MIOSHA Part 21)

Renting a hi-lo does not come with permission to drive it. In Michigan, the employer is responsible for training, testing, and authorizing each operator. This page summarizes what the state and federal rules say, with links to the official text. It is general information, not legal advice.

Federal OSHA lists Michigan as a State Plan state that covers most private sector workers and all state and local government workers. MIOSHA's General Industry Safety Standard Part 21, Powered Industrial Trucks, sets the state rules. Federal OSHA's 29 CFR 1910.178 is the federal standard, and OSHA notes that State Plans must be at least as effective as federal OSHA.

A trainee may operate without a permit for up to 30 days under supervision by a qualified person, as long as the training does not endanger anyone. The permit is optional for motorized hand low lift trucks.

Training before an employee is assigned as an operator, covering equipment capacities, controls, daily checks, practice on the assigned vehicle, operating rules, and exhaust and battery electrolyte hazards
A test of operating ability and knowledge before authorizing anyone to operate a truck other than a motorized hand truck
A written permit that names the firm, the operator, the type of truck authorized, any restrictions, and the dates issued and expiring
Permits valid only with the issuing employer and for no more than three years
Refresher training after unsafe operation, an accident or near miss, a failed evaluation, a change in truck type, or a workplace change

29 CFR 1910.178(l) requires the employer to certify that each operator was trained and evaluated, and to evaluate each operator at least once every three years. OSHA's forklift page also states that federal law bars anyone under 18 from operating a forklift in non-agricultural work.

Confirm who will operate and on which truck type
Schedule training and testing on the exact type you are renting
Prepare permits under Part 21
Set up a place for daily checks; OSHA requires trucks to be examined before service at least daily