Application Fee
See agencyVerified by MI Board of Trades
Crane Operator Licensing in Michigan
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for crane operator in Michigan, 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 Michigan
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
Education: No educational requirements.
- 2
Experience: Work experience required.
- 3
Background/Criminal Review: No criminal record prohibitions.
- 4
License Type: Stand-alone license.
- 5
Storm Water Operators must pass an exam offered by the Department of Environmental Quality.
- 6
The fee for this license is $95.00.
Exam and processing details
- pass an exam offered by the Department of Environmental Quality
Continuing education and program notes
- Continuing education required to maintain license
| Fee Type | Amount |
|---|---|
| The fee for this license | $95.00 |
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Michigan Department of Environmental Quality
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$77,110 median (16% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#10 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (8)
- 1. Meet Michigan eligibility requirements for Crane Operator licensure.
- 2. Complete required education or training: No educational requirements.
- 3. Document required supervised experience: Work experience required.
- 4. Pass required examination steps: State exam required pass an exam offered by the Department of Environmental Quality.
- 5. Prepare supporting documentation (background check: No criminal record prohibitions; Background/Criminal Review: No criminal record prohibitions.).
- 6. Budget filing costs (The fee for this license: $95.00).
- 7. Submit the application to Michigan Department of Environmental Quality and monitor board communications.
- 8. Maintain post-licensure compliance (continuing education: Continuing education required to maintain license).
Salary Insights in Michigan
With a median salary of $77,110, Crane Operators in Michigan earn 16% above the national median of $66,370. Michigan ranks #10 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+2.6%Average Weekly Wage
$1,308Median annual salary
$77,110Hourly estimate
$37.0716% above national median
Difference: +$10,740
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationCrane Operator Salary Ranking
#10 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Michigan | $77,110 | No educational requirements | State exam required | Varies by board |
| Ohio | $62,460 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Indiana | $57,890 | No educational requirements | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Wisconsin | $68,310 | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Michigan | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Ohio | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Indiana | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Wisconsin | 54 | 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
Michigan Department of Environmental Quality
525 W. Allegan St., 4-S, Lansing, MI, 48933
Phone: 5172845424
Related Careers in Michigan
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aircraft Mechanics and Service Technicians | $69,370 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
| Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics | $48,840 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
| Carpenter | $61,410 | Specific course required | Varies by board |
| Construction and Building Inspector | $69,890 | No educational requirements | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Crane Operator in Michigan?
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 exams are required for Crane Operators in Michigan?
Michigan lists State exam required as part of the licensure process for Crane Operators.
What education do you need to become a Crane Operator in Michigan?
The board typically expects No educational requirements for Crane Operator licensure in Michigan.
What is the typical Crane Operator salary in Michigan?
The median annual salary for Crane Operators in Michigan is $77,110. Salaries range from $44,700 (10th percentile) to $97,280 (90th percentile).
How does the Crane Operator salary in Michigan compare to the national average?
Crane Operators in Michigan earn 16% above the national median of $66,370, with a state median of $77,110.
How many Crane Operators work in Michigan?
Michigan employs approximately 1,210 Crane Operators according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Crane Operator license to Michigan 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 Michigan?
The licensing agency is Michigan Department of Environmental Quality. Review agency details at https://www.michigan.gov/deq/0,4561,7-135-3308_3333_4171---,00.html.
How often do you renew a Crane Operator license in Michigan?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.