Application Fee
See agencyVerified by WA Board of Trades
Crane Operator Licensing in Washington
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for crane operator in Washington, 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 Washington
Estimated timeline: 1-4 yearsCore Requirements
- 1
Education: Degree required.
- 2
Experience: Work experience required.
- 3
Background/Criminal Review: No criminal record prohibitions.
- 4
License Type: Stand-alone license.
- 5
Individuals must meet required minimum education (including continuing education) and experience requirements and pass the required computer-based examination.
- 6
There aer five levels of wastewater certification (operator-in-training (OIT), and groups I-IV).
- 7
Each level requires a different level of education.
- 8
Required fees are $140 for the application, examination and the examination administration fee.
- 9
OIT requires 3 months of domestic wastewater treatment plant operating experience, 3 college credits or continuing education uinits relevant to wastewater.
- 10
Group I required 1 years of domestic wastewater treatment plant operating experience.
Exam and processing details
- pass the required computer-based examination
Continuing education and program notes
- continuing education) and experience requirements and pass the required computer-based examination
| Fee Type | Amount |
|---|---|
| Required fees | $140 |
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Department of Ecology
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$96,870 median (46% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#5 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (8)
- 1. Meet Washington eligibility requirements for Crane Operator licensure.
- 2. Complete required education or training: Degree required.
- 3. Document required supervised experience: Work experience required.
- 4. Pass required examination steps: State exam required pass the required computer-based examination.
- 5. Prepare supporting documentation (background check: No criminal record prohibitions; Background/Criminal Review: No criminal record prohibitions.; Required fees are $140 for the application, examination and the examination administration fee.).
- 6. Budget filing costs (Required fees: $140).
- 7. Submit the application to Department of Ecology and monitor board communications.
- 8. Maintain post-licensure compliance (continuing education: Continuing education required to maintain license).
Salary Insights in Washington
With a median salary of $96,870, Crane Operators in Washington earn 46% above the national median of $66,370. Washington ranks #5 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 1-4 years.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+2.3%Average Weekly Wage
$1,837Median annual salary
$96,870Hourly estimate
$46.5746% above national median
Difference: +$30,500
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationCrane Operator Salary Ranking
#5 of 50 statesfor Crane Operator median salary
Nearby States Comparison
Crane Operator licensing across the regionLicense 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Washington | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Idaho | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Oregon | 78 | High | Board-specific review 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
Department of Ecology
300 Desmond Dr, Lacey, WA, 98503-1274
Phone: 3604076000
Related Careers in Washington
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aircraft Mechanics and Service Technicians | $85,010 | No educational requirements | 8 years |
| Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics | $57,790 | No educational requirements | 8 years |
| Carpenter | $73,260 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Construction and Building Inspector | $89,360 | Specific course required | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Crane Operator in Washington?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about 1-4 years, but timing can change based on education track, exam scheduling, and board processing.
What exams are required for Crane Operators in Washington?
Washington lists State exam required as part of the licensure process for Crane Operators.
What education do you need to become a Crane Operator in Washington?
The board typically expects Degree required for Crane Operator licensure in Washington.
What is the typical Crane Operator salary in Washington?
The median annual salary for Crane Operators in Washington is $96,870. Salaries range from $64,200 (10th percentile) to $128,610 (90th percentile).
How does the Crane Operator salary in Washington compare to the national average?
Crane Operators in Washington earn 46% above the national median of $66,370, with a state median of $96,870.
How many Crane Operators work in Washington?
Washington employs approximately 890 Crane Operators according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Crane Operator license to Washington 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 Washington?
The licensing agency is Department of Ecology. Review agency details at http://www.ecy.wa.gov/.
How often do you renew a Crane Operator license in Washington?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.