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Whether you are a new high school graduate, looking to change careers, or a veteran, becoming a mobile crane operator allows you to invest in your future in just a few short weeks and at a fraction of the cost of attending college.
When working to become a crane operator, it is important to understand the process as a whole, including what taking the crane operator tests entails. In this blog, we will briefly outline what it looks like to become a crane operator and take a deep dive into crane exam preparation.
Thinking About Crane Training? Here is Why it is in Demand
The demand for mobile crane operators will continue to grow in 2024. The market is expected to grow 6.3% from 2023 to 2033, increasing the demand for workers. More and more construction projects are taking place and older infrastructure, such as bridges, roads, and sidewalks, need to be updated or replaced, both of which lead to an increased demand for crane operators.
What Does Crane Training Entail?
At Performance Training Solutions, you can complete your mobile crane operator training in as little as three weeks. This 120-hour program provides you with both in-seat and classroom education to prepare you for the NCCCO crane training exams. In-seat and classroom instruction are split evenly and cover all of the subjects and skills you need to pass the crane operator test.
What Does the Crane Training Exam Include?
Once training is completed, all crane operator students will need to sit for the NCCCO crane operator exams (Core and Specialties). The practical crane operator test consists of six main tasks including inspecting equipment, hoisting, booming, swinging, following hand signals, and combination operations. The written exam covers technical knowledge, operations, load charts, and site knowledge. Once the test is passed, you may begin working!
Keep in mind that you need to pass both the written and practical exams in order to obtain your mobile crane operator certification. Luckily, there are a few crane exam preparation techniques you can use to succeed.
How to Prepare for the Crane Operator Test
Receive Training from a High-Quality School
The first step you can take to pass the NCCCO crane training exam is to attend the right school. Being able to train in-seat is crucial to the exam, however, classroom education is just as important. Working with a school that splits time evenly between these will help you succeed during the exam.
Additionally, the right school for you should have small class sizes. This allows instructors to provide a more personalized approach to your education and gives you the opportunity to ask questions easily.
Utilize the NCCCO Reference Material, Study Guides, and Practice Exams
The NCCCO provides reference materials on their site, such as The Candidate Handbook which outlines each exam you may be required to complete. Additionally, there are various resources that students can use to study for the test on the NCCCO site, including load chart manuals and study aids.
What to Expect on the Day of Your NCCCO Crane Operator Tests
When you show up to your testing site on the day of your scheduled exams, you will need to present some form of government-issued photo identification. This may be your passport, U.S. government- or state-issued driver’s license, military identification card, or U.S. government-issued alien registration card. It is also recommended that you bring your scheduling confirmation email with you.
The test is scored as you go, so before you leave, you will be able to see your preliminary exam results immediately after your exam. These results are also available on the CCO portal and are emailed to you.
PTS is Here to Help You Prepare for Your Crane Operator Test
At Performance Training Solutions, we provide our students with in-depth training both in-seat and in the classroom so they are prepared to take the NCCCO crane operator tests and enter the field successfully. Our training only takes three weeks and our small class sizes allow us to provide a more personalized, tailored training experience.
On top of the training we provide, we are also now using the NCCCO required testing center guidelines. In these testing centers, the NCCCO written exam is given on a brand new laptop and each student has their own station. Once the test is complete, students receive their results right away.
Whether you are a high school graduate or a veteran, PTS is here to help. We offer many financing options, including accepting the Post 9/11 GI Bill. If you are ready to get started, schedule a tour today to get $500 off of your tuition.