NCCCO Certification: Complete Study Guide & Exam Tips

Key Takeaways

• NCCCO certification is required by OSHA regulations for crane operators in construction
• You must be 18 or older and meet ASME physical and medical standards to qualify
• The exam includes a 90-question core written test plus specialty and practical exams
• Crane operators earn a median salary of $64,690 per year according to BLS data
• Certification is valid for five years before you need to recertify
• Mobile crane, tower crane, and overhead crane are the most common certification types
• Training programs like ATS help you prepare for both written and practical exams

NCCCO certification proves you can safely operate a crane. It is required by federal law for most crane work in the United States. This guide shows you how to pass the exam on your first try.

What Is NCCCO Certification?

The National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators (NCCCO) is an organization that tests and certifies crane operators. It was founded in 1995. It is recognized by OSHA as an accredited testing organization.

OSHA requires crane operators to be certified. This rule is part of 29 CFR 1926.1427. The law says you must hold certification for each type of crane you operate.

NCCCO offers certifications for many crane types. The most common ones are:

Certification	Crane Type
Mobile Crane	Trucks with mounted booms
Tower Crane	Tall cranes at construction sites
Overhead Crane	Factory and warehouse cranes
Articulating Crane	Knuckle boom cranes
Digger Derrick	Utility pole drills

You can view all certification options at the NCCCO website.

Who Can Take the NCCCO Exam?

You must meet certain rules before you can test. These are listed in the NCCCO Candidate Handbook.

The basic requirements are:

1. Age – You must be at least 18 years old
2. Medical – You must meet ASME B30 physical standards
3. Drug Policy – You must follow NCCCO’s Substance Abuse Policy
4. Code of Ethics – You must agree to the NCCCO Code of Ethics

The ASME physical standard checks your vision, hearing, and body strength. You need good depth perception. You must be able to climb and balance. A doctor can help you check if you qualify.

You do not need prior crane experience to take the exam. But training helps you pass. Many students take a mobile crane training course first.

What Is on the NCCCO Written Exam?

The written exam has two parts. You must pass both to get certified.

Core Exam

The core exam covers topics all crane operators must know. According to the NCCCO Mobile Crane Handbook, it has 90 multiple choice questions.

Topics include:

• Crane parts and what they do
• How to read load charts
• Safe operating rules
• Site hazards like power lines
• Emergency procedures

You get 90 minutes to finish the core exam. You need 70% correct to pass.

Specialty Exam

You also take a specialty exam for your crane type. Common ones are:

• Telescopic Boom – Swing Cab (TLL) – For mobile cranes with rotating cabs
• Telescopic Boom – Fixed Cab (TSS) – For smaller mobile cranes
• Lattice Boom (LAT) – For cranes with bolted boom sections

Each specialty exam has 26 to 55 questions. The number depends on the crane type. You get 45 to 75 minutes based on the exam length.

What Is on the NCCCO Practical Exam?

The practical exam tests your hands on skills. You must pass it within 12 months of passing the written exam.

You will:

1. Perform a pre lift inspection
2. Move the crane into position
3. Pick up a load and place it in a target zone
4. Follow hand signals from a rigger
5. Lower the load safely
6. Shut down the crane properly

An examiner watches you perform these tasks. You get points for each task done correctly. You need 70% to pass.

Many training schools offer practice time on real cranes. ATS lets students train on the same equipment used in exams.

How Should You Study for the NCCCO Exam?

Good study habits help you pass on the first try. Here are proven tips.

1. Get the Official Handbook

The NCCCO Candidate Handbook lists everything on the exam. Download it for free. Use it as your main study guide.

2. Learn to Read Load Charts

Load charts are a big part of the exam. You must know how to find the maximum load for each boom length and angle. Practice reading charts until you can do it fast.

3. Take Practice Tests

Practice tests show you the exam format. They help you find weak spots. Time yourself to get used to the 90 minute limit.

4. Enroll in a Training Program

Crane training schools teach you what you need to know. Look for a school with accredited programs. Good schools offer both classroom and hands on training.

5. Study Crane Parts and Terms

Learn the names of all crane parts. Know what each part does. The exam uses correct technical terms.

6. Review Safety Rules

OSHA crane rules appear on the exam. Study 29 CFR 1926 Subpart CC. Know the rules for power line distance, inspections, and signaling.

7. Practice With a Signalperson

You must follow hand signals on the practical exam. Find someone to practice with. Learn the standard hand signals used in construction.

What Is the Passing Score?

You need 70% on all exams to pass. This includes the core, specialty, and practical exams.

If you fail one part, you can retake just that part. But you must wait at least four days. You have 12 months to pass all parts.

How Much Does NCCCO Certification Cost?

The fees vary based on the tests you take. According to the NCCCO website, expect these costs:

Fee Type	Cost Range
Core Written Exam	$165
Specialty Written Exam	$60 to $110 each
Practical Exam	$175 to $400 per crane type
Processing Fee	$40

Training costs are extra. A full training program can cost $1,500 to $5,000. Some schools offer financial assistance to help cover costs.

How Long Is NCCCO Certification Valid?

Your certification lasts five years. After that, you must recertify.

To recertify, you can:

1. Pass the written exams again, or
2. Show proof of 1,000 hours of crane work during your certification period

You must also take a practical exam for at least one crane type. The recertification practical is shorter than the first one.

What Jobs Can You Get With NCCCO Certification?

Certified crane operators are in demand. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports these facts:

• 42,260 crane operators work in the United States
• The median wage is $64,690 per year or $31.10 per hour
• Top earners make $98,820 or more
• Jobs are expected to grow 4% through 2033

Top industries for crane operators:

Industry	Share of Jobs
Construction	66.5%
Manufacturing	12%
Warehousing	8%
Utilities	5%

Many training schools offer job placement help after you finish your program.

How Do You Register for the NCCCO Exam?

You can register through an NCCCO approved test site. Training schools often host exams on site.

Steps to register:

1. Complete an application with a test site or training school
2. Pay the exam fees
3. Show valid ID on test day
4. Arrive early and bring your confirmation

Some employers pay for your exam. Ask if your company offers this benefit.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many people fail because of simple errors. Here is what to avoid.

Mistake 1: Not Studying Load Charts

Load chart questions make up a big part of the exam. Students who skip this topic often fail. Spend extra time here.

Mistake 2: Running Out of Time

The core exam has 90 questions in 90 minutes. That is one minute per question. Practice with a timer. Do not get stuck on hard questions.

Mistake 3: Skipping Hands On Practice

You cannot pass the practical exam from book learning alone. You need real time on a crane. Sign up for mobile crane training before your test.

Mistake 4: Forgetting Your ID

You need a valid government ID to test. Check your ID before you leave home. Expired IDs are not accepted.

Mistake 5: Ignoring Safety Rules

Safety is the main focus of NCCCO exams. Never skip safety topics when you study. Know the OSHA rules cold.

What Happens After You Pass?

Once you pass all exams, NCCCO sends you a certification card. Carry this card when you work. Employers must see proof of your certification.

Your certification also gets listed in the NCCCO database. Employers can verify your status online.

Conclusion

NCCCO certification opens doors to a good career. Crane operators earn solid pay. The work is steady. And certified operators are always in demand.

The key to passing is good preparation. Study the official handbook. Practice load charts. Get hands on training. And take practice tests.

Ready to start your crane operator career? Contact ATS to learn about training programs that prepare you for NCCCO certification. Their accredited courses cover everything you need to pass on your first try.

FAQ

How hard is the NCCCO exam?

The NCCCO exam is challenging but passable with good study. About 70% of well prepared students pass on the first try. Training programs improve your odds.

Can I take the NCCCO exam online?

No. The written exam must be taken at an approved test site. The practical exam requires a real crane. Some schools offer both on site.

Do I need a CDL to operate a crane?

Some mobile cranes require a Commercial Driver License (CDL). It depends on the crane size and if you drive it on public roads. Check the CDL permit page for more info.

How long does it take to get NCCCO certified?

Most students complete training and pass all exams in 2 to 8 weeks. It depends on the program and your study schedule.

What if I fail the NCCCO exam?

You can retake any exam you fail. You must wait at least four days. You have 12 months from your first exam to pass all parts.

Is NCCCO certification the same as a license?

NCCCO certification meets federal OSHA rules. Some states have extra licensing rules. Check your state requirements before you start work.