How to Get a Crane Operator License: Your Step-by-Step Guide to Success

If you’ve made the monumental decision to become a crane operator, you might be wondering what you need to get started. More specifically, you’re probably thinking about how to get a crane operator license — and is it really necessary? The truth is, an NCCCO crane operator certification drastically improves your chances of finding a job — and can potentially lead to a higher salary as well. Here, we’ll dive into how to get a crane operator license, how it can lead you to joining a thriving career field, and how PTS can help you get there.

What is an NCCCO Certification and How Does it Help You?

First, it’s important to understand what an NCCCO certification is. This is an in-demand certification from the National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators, a non-profit organization that is dedicated to safer standards in crane operation. Recognized by OSHA for meeting safety requirements, an NCCCO certification is a popular certification because it leads to fewer accidents on the job, reduced loss risk, and more consistent training for crane operators.

In addition to the obvious safety benefits, an NCCCO certification can actually improve your career opportunities. In fact, the salary for an NCCCO certified crane operator could be about $85,000, which is 19% above the national average. Of course, this number could vary based on experience and industry, but it’s undeniable that certified crane operators make higher salaries because their training and expertise are valuable to employers. This certification is vital for your entry into the crane industry, so let’s take a closer look at what the NCCCO certification entails.

How to Get a Crane Operator License from NCCCO?

The first step towards earning your NCCCO certification is to attend the right training program that can properly prepare you not only for the exam, but also for your career as a crane operator. Classroom training is important because you’ll need to learn about basic crane operation, preventative maintenance, crane safety, wire rope, and basic rigging practices.

In-the-seat training is just as important, so find a program that values practical experience as well. You need to gain experience operating both a mobile hydraulic telescopic boom swing-cab and a telescopic boom fixed-cab crane because you’ll be tested on them during the NCCCO certification exam. Find a training program that employs NCCCO certified instructors who are experienced and able to properly prepare you not only for the exam, but for a long-lasting career as a crane operator as well.

What to Expect on the NCCCO Exam

In order to receive your NCCCO certification, there are certain requirements you must meet:

• Be at least 18 years old
• Comply with the NCCCO’s Substance Abuse Policy
• Pass Written Examinations
• Pass Practical Examination
• Comply with the NCCCO Code of Ethics

The core written examination is in a multiple-choice format with a total of 90 questions. Candidates must also be competent in one or more Specialty designations, which include:

• Lattice Boom Cranes
• Telescopic Boom Cranes — Swing Cab
• Telescopic Boom Cranes — Fixed Cab

Typically, your exam results will be given to you before you leave the testing center, and NCCCO certification is valid for five years.

How to Get a Crane Operator License? Turn to PTS!

Performance Training Solutions can help prepare you for a satisfying and long-lasting career that will enable you to find future growth opportunities and help sustain your family. As one of the nation’s leading heavy equipment and crane operator training schools, PTS has what it takes to help you elevate your career. Located in central Ohio, our training facility features 5,400 square feet for classroom training and over 10 acres for practical experience.

In addition to our high-quality mobile crane operation training, we also provide Heavy Equipment Operator Training 1, which provides the necessary knowledge required to operate a skid steer, wheel loader, compactor, backhoe, or articulated off-road dump truck. Then, continue your training with our Heavy Equipment Operator Training 2, where you will learn how to operate bulldozers, scrapers, excavators, on-road dump truck, and motor graders. Our programs last three weeks, but the knowledge and skills you’ll gain will last a lifetime.

No matter what course you decide to take, PTS is here to help. Whether you are a veteran, recent high school graduate, disabled worker, or unemployed worker, PTS is ready to help you level up your career. If you’re ready to take the first step towards getting your crane operator license, schedule a tour at PTS and earn a $500 tuition reduction scholarship.