Application Fee
See agencyVerified by KY Board of Trades
Crane Operator Licensing in Kentucky
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for crane operator in Kentucky, 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 Kentucky
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
License Type: Stand-alone license.
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Division of Compliance Assistance • Energy and Environment Cabinet
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$55,100 median (17% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#45 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet Kentucky eligibility requirements for Crane Operator licensure.
- 2. Complete approved education or training requirements.
- 3. Pass required state examinations.
- 4. Submit the application to Division of Compliance Assistance~Energy and Environment Cabinet and monitor board communications.
Salary Insights in Kentucky
With a median salary of $55,100, Crane Operators in Kentucky earn 17% below the national median of $66,370. Kentucky ranks #45 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
SteadyQoQ Employment Change
+1.3%Average Weekly Wage
$1,180Median annual salary
$55,100Hourly estimate
$26.4917% below national median
Difference: -$11,270
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationCrane Operator Salary Ranking
#45 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kentucky | $55,100 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Indiana | $57,890 | No educational requirements | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Ohio | $62,460 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| West Virginia | $54,650 | No educational requirements | State exam required | Varies by board |
| Virginia | $65,400 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Tennessee | $56,530 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 1-18 years |
| Missouri | $46,580 | No educational requirements | State exam required | Varies by board |
| Illinois | $53,240 | No educational requirements | No 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kentucky | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Indiana | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Ohio | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| West Virginia | 60 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Virginia | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Tennessee | 56 | Medium | 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
Division of Compliance Assistance • Energy and Environment Cabinet
300 Sower Blvd., 3rd Floor, Frankfort, KY, 40601
Phone: 5025643350
Related Careers in Kentucky
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aircraft Mechanics and Service Technicians | $72,320 | Degree required | 1 month |
| Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics | $39,940 | Degree required | 1 month |
| Carpenter | $50,860 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Construction and Building Inspector | $63,770 | Degree required | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Crane Operator in Kentucky?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about Varies by board, but timing can change based on education track, exam scheduling, and board processing.
What is the typical Crane Operator salary in Kentucky?
The median annual salary for Crane Operators in Kentucky is $55,100. Salaries range from $40,090 (10th percentile) to $83,970 (90th percentile).
How does the Crane Operator salary in Kentucky compare to the national average?
Crane Operators in Kentucky earn 17% below the national median of $66,370, with a state median of $55,100.
How many Crane Operators work in Kentucky?
Kentucky employs approximately 770 Crane Operators according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Crane Operator license to Kentucky 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 Kentucky?
The licensing agency is Division of Compliance Assistance / Energy and Environment Cabinet. Review agency details at https://eec.ky.gov/Environmental-Protection/Compliance-Assistance/Pages/default.aspx.
How often do you renew a Crane Operator license in Kentucky?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.