Application Fee
See agencyVerified by TX Board of Trades
Crane Operator Licensing in Texas
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for crane operator in Texas, 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 Texas
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
Education: Specific course required.
- 2
Experience: No experience required.
- 3
Background/Criminal Review: Specific type of conviction prohibited.
- 4
Physical Requirement: No physical requirements.
- 5
License Type: Stand-alone license.
- 6
A person engaged in the operation, maintenance and/or direct supervision of a domestic wastewater treatment plant or collections system are required to hold a license.
- 7
There are four levels of the wastewater operator license: A, B, C, and D, with A being the most advanced.
- 8
The required level of experience and education varies depending on the license level.
Exam and processing details
- State exam required
Continuing education and program notes
- Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Texas Commission on Environmental Quality • Occupational Licensing
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$72,870 median (10% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#17 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (7)
- 1. Meet Texas eligibility requirements for Crane Operator licensure.
- 2. Complete required education or training: Specific course required.
- 3. Document required supervised experience: No experience required.
- 4. Pass required examination steps: State exam required.
- 5. Prepare supporting documentation (background check: Specific type of conviction prohibited; Background/Criminal Review: Specific type of conviction prohibited.).
- 6. Submit the application to Texas Commission on Environmental Quality~Occupational Licensing and monitor board communications.
- 7. Maintain post-licensure compliance (continuing education: Continuing education required to maintain license).
Salary Insights in Texas
With a median salary of $72,870, Crane Operators in Texas earn 10% above the national median of $66,370. Texas ranks #17 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
SteadyQoQ Employment Change
+0.8%Average Weekly Wage
$1,420Median annual salary
$72,870Hourly estimate
$35.0310% above national median
Difference: +$6,500
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationCrane Operator Salary Ranking
#17 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Texas | $72,870 | Specific course required | State exam required | Varies by board |
| Oklahoma | $71,500 | No educational requirements | No exam required | Varies by board |
| Arkansas | $42,170 | Varies by state board | State exam required | Varies by board |
| Louisiana | $61,130 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| New Mexico | $60,950 | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Texas | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Oklahoma | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Arkansas | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Louisiana | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| New Mexico | 50 | 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
Texas Commission on Environmental Quality • Occupational Licensing
PO Box 13087, Austin, TX, 78711-3087
Phone: 5122396301
Related Careers in Texas
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aircraft Mechanics and Service Technicians | $80,320 | No educational requirements | Varies by board |
| Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics | $48,660 | No educational requirements | Varies by board |
| Carpenter | $48,150 | Specific course required | Varies by board |
| Construction and Building Inspector | $62,110 | Specific course required | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Crane Operator in Texas?
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 Texas?
Texas lists State exam required as part of the licensure process for Crane Operators.
What education do you need to become a Crane Operator in Texas?
The board typically expects Specific course required for Crane Operator licensure in Texas.
What is the typical Crane Operator salary in Texas?
The median annual salary for Crane Operators in Texas is $72,870. Salaries range from $40,060 (10th percentile) to $92,040 (90th percentile).
How does the Crane Operator salary in Texas compare to the national average?
Crane Operators in Texas earn 10% above the national median of $66,370, with a state median of $72,870.
How many Crane Operators work in Texas?
Texas employs approximately 6,650 Crane Operators according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Crane Operator license to Texas 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 Texas?
The licensing agency is Texas Commission on Environmental Quality / Occupational Licensing. Review agency details at https://www.tceq.texas.gov/licensing/licensing.
How often do you renew a Crane Operator license in Texas?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.