Application Fee
See agencyVerified by CA Board of Trades
Crane Operator Licensing in California
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for crane operator in California, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 21, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
State-approved examRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Crane Operator in California
Estimated timeline: 1-3 yearsCore Requirements
- 1
License Type: Register with licensing agency.
- 2
O Undergo a criminal history background check through the DOJ and the FBI.
- 3
O Possess a minimum of 6,000 hours of compensated experience in security work (equates to 3 year of full-time employment).
- 4
O Pass a multiple-choice examination covering the Private Security Services Act.
- 5
O Have committed no offense or violation of the Private Security Services Act that would be grounds for license suspension or revocation.
- 6
If the individual meets the minimum requirements for admittance to the examination after the application has been reviewed and approved, he/she will receive a letter to contact PSI for scheduling.
- 7
Application and Exam Fee - $550.
Exam and processing details
- Pass a multiple-choice examination covering the Private Security Services Act
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Department of Consumer Affairs • Bureau of Security and Investigative Services
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$69,970 median (5% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#21 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (6)
- 1. Meet California eligibility requirements for Crane Operator licensure.
- 2. Complete approved education or training requirements.
- 3. Document required supervised experience (O Possess a minimum of 6,000 hours of compensated experience in security work (equates to 3 year of full-time employment).).
- 4. Pass required examination steps: Pass a multiple-choice examination covering the Private Security Services Act.
- 5. Prepare supporting documentation (O Undergo a criminal history background check through the DOJ and the FBI.; If the individual meets the minimum requirements for admittance to the examination after the application has been reviewed and approved,...).
- 6. Submit the application to Department of Consumer Affairs~Bureau of Security and Investigative Services and monitor board communications.
Salary Insights in California
With a median salary of $69,970, Crane Operators in California earn 5% above the national median of $66,370. California ranks #21 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 1-3 years.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
SteadyQoQ Employment Change
+1.4%Average Weekly Wage
$1,758Median annual salary
$69,970Hourly estimate
$33.645% above national median
Difference: +$3,600
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationCrane Operator Salary Ranking
#21 of 50 statesfor Crane Operator median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | Nevada | $129,930 |
| #2 | Hawaii | $115,870 |
| #3 | Oregon | $110,280 |
| #4 | New York | $110,000 |
| #5 | Washington | $96,870 |
Nearby States Comparison
Crane Operator licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| California | $69,970 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 1-3 years |
| Oregon | $110,280 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Nevada | $129,930 | Degree required | State exam required | Varies by board |
| Arizona | $67,960 | No educational requirements | State exam required | Varies by board |
License by Endorsement
Transfer requirements are state-specific. Use this quick matrix as a planning signal, then verify final endorsement rules with each board.
| State | Reciprocity Score | Tier | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| California | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Oregon | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Nevada | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Arizona | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Official website verified
Department of Consumer Affairs • Bureau of Security and Investigative Services
PO Box 989002, West Sacramento, CA, 95798
Phone: 9163224000
Related Careers in California
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aircraft Mechanics and Service Technicians | $84,910 | Varies by state board | 1-17 years |
| Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics | $63,370 | Varies by state board | 1-17 years |
| Carpenter | $74,820 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
| Construction and Building Inspector | $101,160 | Varies by state board | 1-6 years |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Crane Operator in California?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about 1-3 years, but timing can change based on education track, exam scheduling, and board processing.
What is the typical Crane Operator salary in California?
The median annual salary for Crane Operators in California is $69,970. Salaries range from $43,830 (10th percentile) to $135,010 (90th percentile).
How does the Crane Operator salary in California compare to the national average?
Crane Operators in California earn 5% above the national median of $66,370, with a state median of $69,970.
How many Crane Operators work in California?
California employs approximately 2,010 Crane Operators according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Crane Operator license to California from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Crane Operators in California?
The licensing agency is Department of Consumer Affairs / Bureau of Security and Investigative Services. Review agency details at https://www.bsis.ca.gov/.
How often do you renew a Crane Operator license in California?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.