Service Truck Operator
Program Overview
The CCO Service Truck Crane Operator certification is designed specifically for operators of smaller service truck cranes. It is a subcategory of the Telescopic Boom—Fixed Cab (TSS) certification and verifies the knowledge and skills needed to operate these cranes safely and competently.
Who Is a Service Truck Operator?
A service truck crane operator uses a truck-mounted telescopic crane, typically controlled by radio remote or pendant, to lift and place loads. These cranes generally have shorter booms and lower capacities than other fixed-cab cranes. The STC certification applies only to service truck cranes; operators seeking qualification for all Telescopic Boom—Fixed Cab cranes must earn the full TSS certification.
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Standard
ASME B30.5
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Exam Format
Written + Practical
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Validity
5 Years
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Accredited by
ANAB
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The Path to Certification
Follow these four steps to earn your CCO Service Truck Operator certification.
01 Confirm Eligibility
Be at least 18 years old and comply with CCO’s Substance Abuse Policy and Code of Ethics.
02 Apply Online
Submit your application and pay the exam fees through the myCCO portal.
03 Take the Written Exam
Choose from online proctored, event-based, or test-center testing.
04 Take the Practical Exam
Schedule with a CCO Practical Proctor to complete and pass the hands-on exam at an approved site.
Written & Practical Exam Content
Written
Written Exam Content
Exam Format
Written Examination: 55 multiple-choice questions • 60-minute time limit.
Knowledge Areas
- Site (17%) – Ground stability, supporting materials, power line hazards, site access, outrigger/stabilizer setup, and lift planning.
- Operations (44%) – Load handling, signaling, inspections, operator aids, outriggers/stabilizers, weather effects, rigging, emergency procedures, safe crane operation and applicable ASME B30.5, OSHA 1910.180, OSHA 1926 Subpart CC, and SAE J765A requirements.
- Technical Knowledge (21%) – Crane terminology, functions and limitations, attachments, wire rope, line pull, power systems, controls, gauges and maintenance requirements.
- Manufacturers’ Load Charts (17%) – Load chart interpretation, rated capacity, stability charts, net and gross capacity calculations, load moment, and equipment manual information.
Practical
Practical Exam Content
Exam Format
Practical examination demonstrating proficiency operating a Service Truck Crane. Candidates must safely complete a series of hands-on tasks involving inspection, precision load handling, zigzag course navigation, and safe shutdown procedures.
Skills Tested
- Task 1: Pre-Operational (Shift) Inspection – Demonstrate a pre-use inspection by identifying inspection items and explaining how to inspect them, including potential deficiencies that could affect safe operation.
- Task 2: Chain in Circle – Safely move the load chain from the starting area to the designated landing circle while maintaining control, avoiding obstacles, and placing the chain accurately without lifting it after initial ground contact.
- Task 3: Test Weight in Pole Circle – Lift, transport, and accurately place the suspended test weight inside the designated area while maintaining load control and avoiding contact with obstacles.
- Task 4A: Negotiate Zigzag Corridor (Forward) – Guide the suspended test weight through a zigzag obstacle course using crane functions while maintaining chain contact with the ground, avoiding obstacles, and placing the load within the designated area.
- Task 4B: Negotiate Zigzag Corridor (Reverse) – Navigate the test weight back through the zigzag corridor without using the telescoping function, demonstrating precise load control, obstacle avoidance, and accurate load placement.
- Task 5: Safe Shutdown Procedures – Demonstrate proper procedures for safely shutting down and securing the service truck crane before leaving the jobsite.
Candidates are evaluated on pre-operational inspection, precision load handling, obstacle navigation, suspended load control, safe crane operation, accuracy, and proper shutdown procedures. Unsafe acts may result in immediate disqualification.
What It Costs to Certify
Written Exam
Per written exam, across any modality (OPT, EOT, or TCT).
$210
Practical Exam
Per practical exam, administered by a CCO-credentialed Practical Proctor.
$70
Fees are paid through the myCCO portal at the time of application. The Service Truck Operator certification requires both a written and a practical exam.
Prepare to Succeed
Candidate Handbook
Get the official Service Truck Operator candidate handbook which contains the exam outline, program overview, reference list, and policies.
Download Handbook →
Training Providers
Find an Accredited Training Provider (ATP) or other providers near you offering Service Truck program training.
Exam Reference Materials
See the reference materials used by Subject Matter Experts to develop exam content for this program.
Exam Prep Materials
Purchase ASME standards to help you prepare for the exam through the CCO Store.
Ready to Get Certified?
Apply for your Articulating Crane Operator exam through the myCCO portal today.