Application Fee
See agencyVerified by MA Board of Trades
Crane Operator Licensing in Massachusetts
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for crane operator in Massachusetts, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 21, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
State exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Crane Operator in Massachusetts
Estimated timeline: 18 yearsCore Requirements
- 1
Education: No educational requirements.
- 2
Experience: No experience required.
- 3
Background/Criminal Review: No criminal record prohibitions.
- 4
License Type: Stand-alone license.
- 5
Anyone who wishes to operate hoisting equipment (including derricks, cableways, machinery used for discharging cargoes, and temporary elevator cars used on excavation work or used for hoisting building material) must obtain a license from the Department.
- 6
Hoisting operators must be 18 years of age, complete an application, and successfully pass an examination covering all working parts of the hoisting machinery, safe operating practices, hand signals, and inspection procedures in order to obtain a license.
Exam and processing details
- pass an examination covering all working parts of the hoisting machinery, safe operating practices, hand signals, and inspection procedures in order to obtain a license
Continuing education and program notes
- Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Department of Public Safety • Engineering Division
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$76,640 median (15% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#11 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (7)
- 1. Confirm eligibility prerequisites (Hoisting operators must be 18 years of age, complete an application, and successfully pass an examination covering all working parts of t...).
- 2. Complete required education or training: No educational requirements.
- 3. Document required supervised experience: No experience required.
- 4. Pass required examination steps: State exam required pass an examination covering all working parts of the hoisting machinery, safe operating practices, hand signals, and inspection procedures in order to obtain a license.
- 5. Prepare supporting documentation (background check: No criminal record prohibitions; Background/Criminal Review: No criminal record prohibitions.; Hoisting operators must be 18 years of age, complete an application, and successfully pass an examination covering all working parts of t...).
- 6. Submit the application to Department of Public Safety~Engineering Division and monitor board communications.
- 7. Maintain post-licensure compliance (continuing education: Continuing education required to maintain license).
Salary Insights in Massachusetts
With a median salary of $76,640, Crane Operators in Massachusetts earn 15% above the national median of $66,370. Massachusetts ranks #11 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 18 years.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+2.1%Average Weekly Wage
$1,805Median annual salary
$76,640Hourly estimate
$36.8515% above national median
Difference: +$10,270
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationCrane Operator Salary Ranking
#11 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Massachusetts | $76,640 | No educational requirements | State exam required | 18 years |
| New Hampshire | $63,410 | No educational requirements | State exam required | 5 months |
| Vermont | $73,840 | Specific course required | No exam required | Varies by board |
| New York | $110,000 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Connecticut | $86,830 | No educational requirements | State exam required | Varies by board |
| Rhode Island | $66,370 | No educational requirements | Third-party 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Massachusetts | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| New Hampshire | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Vermont | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| New York | 60 | Medium | Documented experience may be required. Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
| Connecticut | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Rhode Island | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Continuing education indicator: Continuing education required to maintain license.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Official website verified
Department of Public Safety • Engineering Division
One Ashburton Place, Room 1301, Boston, MA, 02108
Phone: 6177273200
Related Careers in Massachusetts
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aircraft Mechanics and Service Technicians | $87,270 | Degree required | 1-3 years |
| Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics | $57,470 | Degree required | 1-3 years |
| Carpenter | $71,110 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Construction and Building Inspector | $79,220 | Specific course required | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Crane Operator in Massachusetts?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about 18 years, but timing can change based on education track, exam scheduling, and board processing.
What exams are required for Crane Operators in Massachusetts?
Massachusetts lists State exam required as part of the licensure process for Crane Operators.
What education do you need to become a Crane Operator in Massachusetts?
The board typically expects No educational requirements for Crane Operator licensure in Massachusetts.
What is the typical Crane Operator salary in Massachusetts?
The median annual salary for Crane Operators in Massachusetts is $76,640. Salaries range from $54,140 (10th percentile) to $145,850 (90th percentile).
How does the Crane Operator salary in Massachusetts compare to the national average?
Crane Operators in Massachusetts earn 15% above the national median of $66,370, with a state median of $76,640.
How many Crane Operators work in Massachusetts?
Massachusetts employs approximately 480 Crane Operators according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Crane Operator license to Massachusetts from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Continuing education indicator: Continuing education required to maintain license. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Crane Operators in Massachusetts?
The licensing agency is Department of Public Safety / Engineering Division. Review agency details at http://www.mass.gov/eopss/agencies/dps/.
How often do you renew a Crane Operator license in Massachusetts?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.