Application Fee
See agencyVerified by MN Board of Trades
Crane Operator Licensing in Minnesota
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for crane operator in Minnesota, 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 Minnesota
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
License Type: Register with licensing agency.
Continuing education and program notes
- Certification required
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$67,320 median (1% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#25 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet Minnesota eligibility requirements for Crane Operator licensure.
- 2. Complete approved education or training requirements.
- 3. Pass required state examinations.
- 4. Submit the application to Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry and monitor board communications.
Salary Insights in Minnesota
With a median salary of $67,320, Crane Operators in Minnesota earn 1% above the national median of $66,370. Minnesota ranks #25 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+3%Average Weekly Wage
$1,407Median annual salary
$67,320Hourly estimate
$32.371% above national median
Difference: +$950
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationCrane Operator Salary Ranking
#25 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Minnesota | $67,320 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Wisconsin | $68,310 | No educational requirements | No exam required | Varies by board |
| Iowa | $55,620 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| South Dakota | $70,400 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| North Dakota | $74,880 | Specific course required | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Minnesota | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Wisconsin | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Iowa | 70 | Medium | Documented experience may be required. |
| South Dakota | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| North Dakota | 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
Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry
443 Lafayette Road North, St. Paul, MN, 55155
Phone: 6512845005
Related Careers in Minnesota
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aircraft Mechanics and Service Technicians | $86,640 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
| Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics | $57,470 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
| Carpenter | $64,650 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
| Construction and Building Inspector | $83,890 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Crane Operator in Minnesota?
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 Minnesota?
The median annual salary for Crane Operators in Minnesota is $67,320. Salaries range from $48,800 (10th percentile) to $100,800 (90th percentile).
How does the Crane Operator salary in Minnesota compare to the national average?
Crane Operators in Minnesota earn 1% above the national median of $66,370, with a state median of $67,320.
How many Crane Operators work in Minnesota?
Minnesota employs approximately 170 Crane Operators according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Crane Operator license to Minnesota 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 Minnesota?
The licensing agency is Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry. Review agency details at http://www.dli.mn.gov/CCLD/Forms.asp.
How often do you renew a Crane Operator license in Minnesota?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.