License to Work: A National Study of Burdens from Occupational Licensing
Crane Operator
Highlights
License required in 18 states
37th most burdensome licensing requirements
54th most heavily regulated occupation
(Last updated April 24, 2012)
Definition
Crane and heavy machine operators operate mechanical boom and cable equipment to lift and move materials, machines or products in many directions.
Summary
Eighteen states require a license to work as a crane operator. On average, these laws cost aspiring crane operators 221 days in training and $195 in fees and require them to take three exams -- the 37th most burdensome requirements of the 102 occupations studied.
License requirements for crane operators vary widely across states. New York has the most burdensome requirements at three years lost to training, three exams and $150 in fees, while another five states require between 233 days and two years. Most of the other states require no experience but rather three exams, fees and a minimum age of 18.
