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If you’ve always wanted to be a crane operator or are interested in exploring the opportunities being one provides, there’s no getting around the primary requirement: You’ll need to pass a crane certification test.
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has ruled that crane operators need to be certified by an accredited crane operator testing organization or qualified through an audited employer program. This regulation is in place for any individual looking to operate a crane that weighs 2,000 pounds or more.
Usually, achieving crane certification will mean testing through the National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators (NCCCO). But lining up and preparing for a crane certification test doesn’t have to be an arduous process. Performance Training Solutions offers a selection of courses and services to get you ready to reach the next stage of your career path.
The Difference Between First-Time Testing and Recertification
The first important distinction to make as you prepare for your crane certification test is your experience level.
If you’re seeking NCCCO Crane Certification for the first time — perhaps after taking part in a crane operator training course or prior on-the-job training — you should be aware of the specifics of the exam.
The crane certification test will consist of both written and practical exams. The written exam will consist of a Core section (general knowledge) and then up to four crane specialty (load chart) examinations. To gain certification, you will need to display competency in both the Core section and at least one specialty component. The exam will feature 90 multiple-choice questions covering the core component and 26 more multiple-choice questions for each specialty section selection. For instance, if you wanted to test for three of the four allotted specialties, then that would mean 78 additional questions in total.
The practical portion of the exam will ask operators to demonstrate proficiency in Telescopic Boom Cranes in either the Swing Cab (TLL) or Fixed Cab (TSS) varieties. This part of the exam will ask operators to complete six main tasks that increase progressively in the skill level needed, including equipment inspection, hoisting, booming, swinging, following hand signals, and combination (or multifunctional) operations. Operating a crane both with and without load is required.
If you’re seeking NCCCO Crane Recertification, you’re already familiar with the nuts and bolts of the exam and have obviously passed it at least once before. You should be aware, however, that the original certification is valid for only five years. And when seeking recertification, candidates must complete all their requirements in the 12-month window prior to the certification expiration date.
Certification is an essential part of being a crane operator. It shows that you have demonstrated independently verified knowledge and skills in the operation of a piece of powerful and complicated equipment. This proves to potential employers that you have the training needed to execute your assignments on a job site and that you are at a lower risk of an accident or other associated loss on site. With certification, crane operators have shown consistent training and will enjoy expanded job opportunities.
PTS has Options To Prepare You For a Crane Certification Test
From a full three-week training program to a quick and easy online quiz, PTS is here to help you determine the level of preparation you need and then provide it.
Should you get right into preparing for a crane certification test, or do you need more baseline training first? Get the answer with this Crane Pre-Certification Quiz. Our trained instructors will score the quiz, and the results will be sent to you via email. Those who successfully complete the quiz — by scoring 70 percent or better — will be sent the NCCCO Candidate Application Written Exams form and a payment authorization form for entry into our Prep & Test program. This will put you on the fast track toward recertification.
Those who score below the 70 percent threshold will be directed to the specialized three-week training program at PTS to gain a more firm understanding of the fundamentals of crane operator training.
The PTS Test & Prep program is designed for those crane operators who are either seeking recertification or have extensive experience (at least 500 hours per year). This program is a three-day refresher course that will prepare you for the crane certification test with classroom reviews covering the legal standards and load chart practice tests. Tuition cost for the program includes the NCCCO exam fees.
The Test & Prep program is ideally designed for crane operators with working experience but no initial certification, or those seeking to complete their recertification before their five-year window closes. The program is not intended for those just beginning their experience with cranes; those individuals should instead invest in the three-week course.
Becoming Certified is Easier with PTS
With options no matter your experience level, Performance Training Solutions will set you up to pass your crane certification test and get you prepared for the job site. You can approach NCCCO certification or recertification with confidence thanks to the experience and expertise of one of the top heavy equipment operator training schools in the country.
Seating is limited for the Test & Prep program, so if interested, you should contact Rich Lee at 614-863-8830 at your earliest convenience to reserve your spot or for more information.