Crane Operator Certification and Training
Crane Operator Certification Overview
National Safety Partners’ Crane Operator Certification program. This program is designed to help individuals achieve their CCO certification, a nationally recognized and accredited credential. Our program aligns with the standards set by NCCCO, offering crane operator training that ensures safe and efficient crane operation.
National Safety Partners has developed this certification program with insights from industry experts, including crane operators, trainers, safety supervisors, and manufacturers. Our goal is to enhance the safety of professionals who work with cranes and lifting equipment.
Eligibility for Crane Operator Certification
To be eligible for the CCO certification, candidates must meet the following criteria:
- Be at least 18 years of age.
- Comply with NCCCO’s Substance Abuse Policy.
- Pass the Written Core Examination and at least one Specialty Examination.
- Pass the Practical Examination within 12 months of passing the written examination.
- Adhere to the CCO Code of Ethics.
Candidates can find complete instructions and exam applications in the Candidate Handbook for each program.
Written Examinations for Crane Operator Certification
The CCO Written Examinations consist of a Core Examination and up to three crane Specialty Examinations:
- Lattice Boom Cranes (LAT)
- Telescopic Boom Cranes—Swing Cab (TLL)
- Telescopic Boom Cranes—Fixed Cab (TSS)
Candidates are required to pass the Core Examination, which includes 90 multiple-choice questions, and one or more Specialty Examinations, each with 26 multiple-choice questions. All candidates must register for the Core and at least one Specialty Examination.
The written exams can be taken via Online Proctored Testing (OPT), Test Center Testing (TCT), or Event Online Testing (EOT). Learn more about the Crane Operator Certification Preparation.
Practical Examinations for Crane Operator Certification
The CCO Practical Examinations are available for three crane types:
- Lattice Boom Cranes (LAT)
- Telescopic Boom Cranes—Swing Cab (TLL)
- Telescopic Boom Cranes—Fixed Cab (TSS)
Candidates must pass both the Written Core and at least one Specialty Examination, as well as the corresponding Practical Exam, to be certified for a five-year period.
CCO Certification Timeline
Candidates must complete all examinations within 12 months of passing their first exam, either Written or Practical. This ensures that all certifications and specializations maintain the same expiration date. If additional designations are added within the final 24 months of the certification period, recertification for the new designation may be deferred until the next certification cycle.
Additional Crane Safety Training Programs
National Safety Partners offers a range of crane safety training programs, designed to prepare candidates for certification and safe operation of cranes. These programs include:
Mobile Crane Operator Safety Training
This training covers operator requirements, hand and verbal signals, crane setup, site inspections, power line safety, understanding load charts, and more. It meets the guidelines for 29 CFR 1926.1427 and is essential for safe crane operation.
NCCCO Mobile Crane Operator Certification Preparation
Designed to assist students in passing the NCCCO written and practical exams, this course covers key topics such as safe crane operations, reading load charts, and compliance with OSHA & ANSI/ASME standards.
Overhead & Gantry Crane Operator Safety Training
This program provides training on safe operating practices and inspection processes for overhead cranes, ensuring compliance with 29 CFR 1910.179(A)(35),(B)(8) and ASME B30.2 standards.
Recertification Requirements
The CCO certification is valid for five years. Recertification candidates must meet all recertification requirements during the 12 months before their certification expires. Candidates can also add new Specialties during recertification by completing the full examination in that Specialty.
For more information on recertification requirements, please visit our Recertification page.
Certification Policies
The following policies apply to all CCO certification programs:
- NCCCO Code of Ethics
- Disciplinary Policy
- Substance Abuse Policy
- Testing Accommodations Policy
- Change of Address Policy
- Appeals Policy and Procedures
- Information Release Policy
- Administrative Complaints Policy
These policies are detailed in the Candidate Handbooks for each program.
Certification Cards
Certified operators receive a laminated photo ID card at no cost upon certification, adding a designation, or recertifying. Replacement cards can be obtained from CCO for $25.
Please note that operators with Telescopic Boom—Fixed Cab (TSS) certification also receive the Service Truck Crane (STC) certification designation.
Contact Us
For more information on how to get started with crane operator certification or any of our crane operator training programs, please contact us.
