In short
OSHA's construction crane rule, 29 CFR 1926.1427, requires most crane operators to be certified by an accredited testing organization for the type and capacity of crane they run, and employers must also evaluate them. NCCCO is the best known certifier. Candidates pass a written core exam, a written specialty exam and a practical exam on the crane type. Certification must be renewed every five years.
| Middle pay | $68,080 a year, roughly $32.73 an hour (May 2025) |
|---|---|
| How most people start | High school or GED to start, then moderate-term on-the-job training |
| People in the trade | About 42,900 nationwide (2025) |
| Growth to 2035 | BLS expects 3.8% growth |
| Openings a year | Around 3,500, counting retirements |
From the BLS Employment Projections table (2025 to 2035) and May 2025 wage survey. These are U.S. numbers. Local shops may pay above or below them, and apprentices start well under the middle figure.
Crane types you can certify on
- Mobile cranes, such as lattice boom and telescopic boom trucks
- Tower cranes
- Overhead cranes
- Articulating cranes and digger derricks
Each has its own specialty and practical exams.
Getting the hours
Most operators start as oilers, riggers or equipment operators and learn under experienced operators. Operating engineers unions and some private schools run crane programs. Rigger and signal person certifications are common first steps.
Interested in heavy equipment?
Tell us your ZIP and we will send equipment and crane training near you.
Straight answers
Is crane certification required by OSHA?
For most cranes used in construction, yes. Operators must be certified by an accredited testing organization or qualified through an audited employer program, and employers must evaluate them.
How long does NCCCO certification last?
Five years, then you recertify.
How much do crane operators make?
Crane and tower operators earned a median $68,080 in May 2025.