Application Fee
See agencyVerified by MT Board of Trades
Crane Operator Licensing in Montana
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for crane operator in Montana, 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 Montana
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
Education: No educational requirements.
- 2
Experience: Work experience required.
- 3
Physical Requirement: Physical exam required.
- 4
Certification: Certification required.
- 5
License Type: Stand-alone license.
Exam and processing details
- State exam required
Continuing education and program notes
- No continuing education requirement to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Building Codes Bureau - Crane and Hoist Operator
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$91,520 median (38% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#6 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (6)
- 1. Meet Montana 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.
- 5. Submit the application to Building Codes Bureau - Crane and Hoist Operator and monitor board communications.
- 6. Maintain post-licensure compliance (continuing education: No continuing education requirement to maintain license).
Salary Insights in Montana
With a median salary of $91,520, Crane Operators in Montana earn 38% above the national median of $66,370. Montana ranks #6 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+3.6%Average Weekly Wage
$1,173Median annual salary
$91,520Hourly estimate
$44.0038% above national median
Difference: +$25,150
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationCrane Operator Salary Ranking
#6 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Montana | $91,520 | No educational requirements | State exam required | Varies by board |
| North Dakota | $74,880 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| South Dakota | $70,400 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Wyoming | $76,110 | Specific course required | No exam required | Varies by board |
| Idaho | $73,480 | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Montana | 60 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| North Dakota | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| South Dakota | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Wyoming | 62 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
| Idaho | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Continuing education indicator: No continuing education requirement to maintain license.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Official website verified
Building Codes Bureau - Crane and Hoist Operator
301 South Park, 4th Floor, PO Box 200517, Helena, MT, 59620-0517
Phone: 4068412064
Related Careers in Montana
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aircraft Mechanics and Service Technicians | $62,990 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
| Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics | $57,060 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
| Carpenter | $58,110 | No educational requirements | Varies by board |
| Construction and Building Inspector | $60,500 | Specific course required | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Crane Operator in Montana?
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 Montana?
Montana lists State exam required as part of the licensure process for Crane Operators.
What education do you need to become a Crane Operator in Montana?
The board typically expects No educational requirements for Crane Operator licensure in Montana.
What is the typical Crane Operator salary in Montana?
The median annual salary for Crane Operators in Montana is $91,520. Salaries range from $44,780 (10th percentile) to $105,520 (90th percentile).
How does the Crane Operator salary in Montana compare to the national average?
Crane Operators in Montana earn 38% above the national median of $66,370, with a state median of $91,520.
How many Crane Operators work in Montana?
Montana employs approximately 90 Crane Operators according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Crane Operator license to Montana from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Continuing education indicator: No continuing education requirement 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 Montana?
The licensing agency is Building Codes Bureau - Crane and Hoist Operator. Review agency details at https://boards.bsd.dli.mt.gov/crane-hoisting-operator-program/.
How often do you renew a Crane Operator license in Montana?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.