Application Fee
See agencyVerified by NC Board of Trades
Crane Operator Licensing in North Carolina
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for crane operator in North Carolina, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 21, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
No exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Crane Operator in North Carolina
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
License Type: Tied to business.
Exam and processing details
- No exam required
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
NC Department of Environmental Quality • Marine Fisheries
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$62,060 median (6% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#36 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet North Carolina eligibility requirements for Crane Operator licensure.
- 2. Complete approved education or training requirements.
- 3. Pass required examination steps: No exam required.
- 4. Submit the application to NC Department of Environmental Quality~Marine Fisheries and monitor board communications.
Salary Insights in North Carolina
With a median salary of $62,060, Crane Operators in North Carolina earn 6% below the national median of $66,370. North Carolina ranks #36 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
SteadyQoQ Employment Change
+1.4%Average Weekly Wage
$1,298Median annual salary
$62,060Hourly estimate
$29.846% below national median
Difference: -$4,310
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationCrane Operator Salary Ranking
#36 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| North Carolina | $62,060 | Varies by state board | No exam required | Varies by board |
| Virginia | $65,400 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Tennessee | $56,530 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 1-18 years |
| Georgia | $67,230 | Specific course required | State exam required | Varies by board |
| South Carolina | $55,410 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| North Carolina | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Virginia | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Tennessee | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Georgia | 25 | Low | Limited or restricted active licensing status. State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| South Carolina | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Official website verified
NC Department of Environmental Quality • Marine Fisheries
3441 Arendell Street, Morehead City, NC, 28557
Phone: 2527267021
Related Careers in North Carolina
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aircraft Mechanics and Service Technicians | $69,320 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
| Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics | $48,530 | Specific course required | Varies by board |
| Carpenter | $47,630 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Construction and Building Inspector | $65,830 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Crane Operator in North Carolina?
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 North Carolina?
North Carolina lists No exam required as part of the licensure process for Crane Operators.
What is the typical Crane Operator salary in North Carolina?
The median annual salary for Crane Operators in North Carolina is $62,060. Salaries range from $42,340 (10th percentile) to $82,790 (90th percentile).
How does the Crane Operator salary in North Carolina compare to the national average?
Crane Operators in North Carolina earn 6% below the national median of $66,370, with a state median of $62,060.
How many Crane Operators work in North Carolina?
North Carolina employs approximately 1,100 Crane Operators according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Crane Operator license to North Carolina 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 North Carolina?
The licensing agency is NC Department of Environmental Quality / Marine Fisheries. Review agency details at https://deq.nc.gov/about/divisions/marine-fisheries.
How often do you renew a Crane Operator license in North Carolina?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.