Application Fee
See agencyVerified by NJ Board of Trades
Crane Operator Licensing in New Jersey
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for crane operator in New Jersey, 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 New Jersey
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.
Exam and processing details
- State exam required
Continuing education and program notes
- No continuing education requirement to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Department of Labor and Workforce Development • Office of Safety Compliance
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$88,470 median (33% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#7 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (7)
- 1. Meet New Jersey 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. Prepare supporting documentation (background check: No criminal record prohibitions; Background/Criminal Review: No criminal record prohibitions.).
- 6. Submit the application to Department of Labor and Workforce Development~Office of Safety Compliance and monitor board communications.
- 7. Maintain post-licensure compliance (continuing education: No continuing education requirement to maintain license).
Salary Insights in New Jersey
With a median salary of $88,470, Crane Operators in New Jersey earn 33% above the national median of $66,370. New Jersey ranks #7 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+2.4%Average Weekly Wage
$1,565Median annual salary
$88,470Hourly estimate
$42.5333% above national median
Difference: +$22,100
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationCrane Operator Salary Ranking
#7 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| New Jersey | $88,470 | No educational requirements | State exam required | Varies by board |
| New York | $110,000 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Pennsylvania | $57,760 | No educational requirements | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Delaware | $62,820 | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| New Jersey | 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. |
| Pennsylvania | 60 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Delaware | 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
Department of Labor and Workforce Development • Office of Safety Compliance
PO Box 386, Trenton, NJ, 8625
Phone: 6092922096
Related Careers in New Jersey
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aircraft Mechanics and Service Technicians | $97,730 | Specific course required | Varies by board |
| Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics | $57,290 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
| Carpenter | $61,880 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Construction and Building Inspector | $82,210 | Specific course required | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Crane Operator in New Jersey?
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 New Jersey?
New Jersey lists State exam required as part of the licensure process for Crane Operators.
What education do you need to become a Crane Operator in New Jersey?
The board typically expects No educational requirements for Crane Operator licensure in New Jersey.
What is the typical Crane Operator salary in New Jersey?
The median annual salary for Crane Operators in New Jersey is $88,470. Salaries range from $62,460 (10th percentile) to $136,850 (90th percentile).
How does the Crane Operator salary in New Jersey compare to the national average?
Crane Operators in New Jersey earn 33% above the national median of $66,370, with a state median of $88,470.
How many Crane Operators work in New Jersey?
New Jersey employs approximately 740 Crane Operators according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Crane Operator license to New Jersey 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 New Jersey?
The licensing agency is Department of Labor and Workforce Development / Office of Safety Compliance. Review agency details at https://www.nj.gov/labor/lsse/laws/Laws_and_Regulations.html.
How often do you renew a Crane Operator license in New Jersey?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.