Tower Crane Operator
Program Overview
The CCO Tower Crane Operator certification is a nationally recognized and internationally accredited program developed by experts from industries that use tower cranes. It verifies the knowledge and practical skills required to safely operate hammerhead, self-erecting and luffing boom tower cranes.
Who Is a Tower Crane Operator?
A tower crane operator controls a stationary crane used to lift and move materials across construction sites and other work environments. Certified operators demonstrate competency in crane configuration, load handling, inspections, maintenance, safety procedures and efficient crane operation.
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Standard
ASME B30.3 · ASME B30.29
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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 Tower Crane 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
Take and pass 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
55 multiple-choice questions • 60-minute time limit.
Knowledge Areas
- Site (10%) – Site assessment, hazards, power lines, and foundation requirements.
- Erection, Climbing & Dismantling (25%) – Crane setup, climbing procedures, configuration, counterweights, tie-ins, and manufacturer requirements.
- Operations (50%) – Crane operation, inspections, load handling, load charts, hand signals, operator responsibilities, weather, emergency procedures, and ASME B30.3 requirements.
- Technical Knowledge (15%) – Crane components, wire ropes, power systems, crane configurations, safety procedures, and industry terminology.
Practical
Practical Exam Content
Exam Format
Practical examination demonstrating proficiency operating a Tower Crane. Candidates must safely complete a series of hands-on tasks involving inspection, precision load placement, zigzag load control, and safe securing 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: Place Load Hook and Chain in Stop Circle – Safely move the load hook and chain from the starting position to the designated stop circle while maintaining control, avoiding obstacles, and placing the chain accurately without lifting it after initial ground contact.
- Task 3: Place Test Weight in Load Circle – Lift, transport, and accurately place the test weight between the designated load and start circles using precise hoisting, trolley, and swing movements while avoiding contact with barriers.
- Task 4A: Negotiate Zigzag Corridor (Forward) – Guide the suspended test weight through the zigzag corridor in the forward direction while maintaining chain contact with the ground, avoiding obstacles, and accurately placing the load in the designated area.
- Task 4B: Negotiate Zigzag Corridor (Reverse) – Return the suspended test weight through the zigzag corridor in the reverse direction while demonstrating precise load control, obstacle avoidance, and accurate load placement.
- Task 5: Safe Securing Procedures – Describe the proper procedures for securing the tower crane at the end of the workday, including leaving the crane in a safe condition for shutdown.
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 Tower Crane Operator certification requires both a written and a practical exam.
Prepare to Succeed
Candidate Handbook
Get the official Tower Crane 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 Tower Crane program training.Find a Provider →
Exam Reference Materials
See the reference materials used by Subject Matter Experts to develop exam content for this program.
View Reference Materials →
Exam Prep Materials
Purchase ASME standards to help you prepare for the exam through the CCO Store.Visit CCO Store →
Ready to Get Certified?
Apply for your Articulating Crane Operator exam through the myCCO portal today.