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Certification of Crane Operators 


TrainND Northwest fully endorses the national certification program offered by the National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators (NCCCO) and will prepare candidates for the certification examinations. The NCCCO Written exams can be administered as a computer based test at our location, or as a computer-based test at the PSI Testing Center located on our campus. NCCCO Practical exams are completed in the TrainND Northwest yard, with a Swing cab (TLL), Fixed cab (TSS), and Lattice crane available for seat time and testing.

5-Day Certified Crane Operator Preparation Course

Our crane operator preparatory training program is specifically designed to prepare candidates who currently work in crane operations for the successful completion of NCCCO written examinations. This program includes a study guide, as well as interactive classroom exercises that emphasize all parts of the NCCCO Core and Specialty examinations. This five-day training program is designed to instruct crane operators in important safety, technical, and practical matters relating to crane operation. Signaling and rigging concepts and techniques are covered. The program is beneficial for any crane operator lacking classroom instruction or an operator considering the NCCCO certification. Classes are offered monthly, and enrollment is limited to 10 students per class. For additional information, please click here to view the course syllabus.

Upon successful completion of the course, students should be able to:
  • Understand operator requirements and responsibilities.
  • Understand effective communications among lifting personnel.
  • Understand load chart interpretations and applications.
  • Understand the proper crane setup.
  • Understand applicable OSHA and ANSI/AMSE Safety Standards.
  • Operate mobile cranes safely and efficiently.
  • Successfully pass the Mobile Crane Written and Practical Examinations to earn NCCCO Certification.
Price: $2300 per person - Tuition includes written and practical testing fees

10-Day Novice Crane Operator Training Program


This two-week program will provide inexperienced students fundamental skills and knowledge relating to crane operation with the end goal of getting certified through the National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators (NCCCO). NCCCO is one of the most widely recognized crane operator certifications in the crane and lifting industry. This program provides both classroom and hands-on training, where students will learn to operate fixed and swing cab cranes. Tuition includes all NCCCO exam fees. This course may be eligible for funding under Veteran’s Educational Benefits and WIOA funding through Job Service ND. Enrollment is limited to 8 students per class. For additional information, please click here to review the course syllabus.

Upon successful completion of the course students should be able to:
  • Understand operator requirements and responsibilities.
  • Understand effective communications among lifting personnel.
  • Understand load chart interpretations and applications.
  • Perform site analysis as well as pre-operation and post-operation inspections.
  • Understand the proper crane setup.
  • Understand applicable OSHA and ANSI/AMSE Safety Standards.
  • Operate Swing cab (TLL), and Fixed cab (TSS) cranes safely and efficiently.
  • Successfully pass the Mobile Crane Written and Practical Examinations to earn NCCCO Certification.

Price: $5250 per person - Tuition includes written and practical testing fees 

NCCCO Crane Operator Practical Examinations

Practical exams are provided based on the student’s category selection and must be completed for the NCCCO certification. Practical exams are completed during class, but can also be scheduled outside of class dates based on instructor availability. The cranes available for seat time and practical exams include a Swing cab (TLL), Fixed cab (TSS), and Lattice. TrainND Northwest can also complete practical examinations on other cranes or come to your location for an additional fee.
 
Price: $525 pp per Hydraulic crane type, $899 pp Lattice

Rigger Level 1

Riggers are individuals who specialize in lifting and moving large and heavy objects. As this is a labor-intensive and potentially dangerous job, formal rigger training is required. A qualified rigger is needed during assembly/disassembly of cranes, when employees are engaged in hooking, unhooking, or guiding the load, or in the initial connection of a load to a component or structure and are within the fall zone. A qualified rigger is defined as a qualified person who, by the possession of a recognized degree, certificate, or professional standing, or who by extensive knowledge, training, and experience, successfully demonstrated the ability to solve/resolve problems relating to rigging. NCCCO certified riggers meet this requirement [1926.1404; 1926.1425]. This course brings all of the rigging concerns into focus for a practical, field-proven method of ensuring rigging safety. Classes are offered twice a year during our fall and spring schedules. Enrollment is limited to 10 students per class.

Price: $795 pp. Tuition includes the practical exam fee.  The written exam fee is not included but can be added at an additional cost.

Cancellation & Refund Policy

Classes require a minimum of four (4) students. TrainND reserves the right to cancel class one (1) week prior to class start date if minimum enrollment has not been met. Registered students may be transferred to the next scheduled class or request a full refund be issued. If a student wishes to transfer or cancel the registration, the notification must be provided no less than two (2) weeks before the class start date. After this time, a processing fee equal to 10% of the class cost will be incurred.

For NCCCO Practical Exams, payment in full is required at the time of scheduling. TrainND Northwest must be notified at least 48 hours prior to the examination start time of changes and cancellations. Cancellations and changes made within 48 hours of examination start time will incur non-refundable a $150 cancellation fee. No refunds or transfers will be issued if TrainND Northwest is notified after the scheduled examination start time.