#blog · September 26, 2024

Is a Crane License Required?

4 minute read

This post is also available in German .

Whether on construction sites or in warehouses – cranes are indispensable helpers when it comes to lifting heavy loads. But when is a crane license required to operate a crane? In this article, we answer the most important questions about crane licenses.

Who Needs a Crane License?

A crane license is mandatory when you want to operate certain types of cranes as a crane operator. For example, a crane operator license is required for the following types of cranes:

Tower Cranes
Mobile Cranes
Truck-Mounted Cranes
Bridge cranes
Gantry cranes
Hall cranes

According to the DGUV principle "Selection, Training and Competency Verification of Crane Operators," the crane operator must complete training that includes both theoretical and practical content. After successfully passing the examination, you receive the crane operator license, often also referred to as a crane license.

Operating a Crane Without a License

Not all lifting equipment falls under the category of "crane" and therefore does not require a crane license. Here is an overview of equipment that can be operated without a crane license because they are not classified as cranes:

Industrial trucks including their attachments These include, for example, forklifts, which are used for internal material transport.

Working Platforms These devices are often used for work at heights but are not classified as cranes.

Equipment and systems for rack storage These are primarily used in warehouses and are specialized in storing and retrieving goods.

Equipment subject to lift regulations These include, for example, passenger and freight elevators, which are subject to specific legal requirements.

Suspended conveyor systems These systems are often found in industrial facilities and transport loads on fixed rail paths.

Equipment for forest cable operations These are common in forestry and are used for transporting timber.

Industrial robots and manipulators These automated devices often handle lifting and transport tasks in manufacturing.

Lifting devices with short stroke distances If the control devices are mounted directly on the load pickup and the lifting distance does not exceed 1.5 meters, no crane license is required.

Stacking machines, setting machines and removal equipment in the building materials industry These specialized devices handle specific materials in the industry.

Roll-off skip containers These vehicles are used to transport and unload containers and do not require a crane license.

Patient lifting equipment These are used in healthcare to safely lift and move patients.

For manually operated cranes where all movements are performed by muscle power, training is required, but a crane license is not necessary. Different regulations apply to these devices, such as DGUV Regulation 53 § 2 Section 6.

How Do I Become a Crane Operator?

To become a crane operator, you must first complete theoretical and practical training. After successfully passing the examination, you receive your crane license. This entitles you to operate cranes and opens numerous career opportunities, particularly in the construction and logistics industries. Be sure to regularly participate in further training to keep your knowledge up to date.

Who Is Allowed to Operate a Crane?

To work as a crane operator, the following requirements must be met:

Minimum age of 18 years
Physical and mental fitness
Successfully completed training and examination
Authorization by the employer, in writing for mobile cranes

How Much Does a Crane License Cost?

The costs for a crane license vary considerably depending on the type of crane. Here is an overview:

Floor-controlled hall cranes: from approx. 200 euros
Mobile cranes: up to 3,000 euros

Often employers or the employment agency cover the costs of the crane license, especially when training is conducted at a certified facility.

How Long Does Crane License Training Take?

The duration of crane license training depends on the type of crane and the participant's prior knowledge. Here is a rough overview:

Part-powered cranes: 1 day
Floor-controlled cranes: 1 to 5 days
Cabin-controlled cranes: 5 to 10 days
Tower cranes: 10 to 15 days
Mobile cranes: 15 to 20 days

Do you want to rent a tower crane for your construction project? You can find all relevant information in this blog article.

Rent Cranes from klarx

At klarx, you will find a wide selection of cranes for different construction projects – from small construction sites to large industrial projects. Our range includes everything from mobile auto cranes to stationary tower cranes. Thanks to our extensive experience in implementing various crane projects, we can provide you not only with the right equipment but also valuable support in planning and implementation.

If you need help selecting the right crane or would like to discuss your project in detail, our crane experts are available at any time. Schedule a free consultation and let our specialists advise you.

Schedule Consultation Now