#blog · September 26, 2024

Is a Crane License Required?

4 minute read

This post is also available in German .

On job 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 if you want to operate certain types of cranes as a crane operator. For example, a crane operator license is required for the following crane types:

Tower cranes
Mobile cranes
Truck-mounted cranes
Bridge cranes
Gantry cranes
Hall cranes

According to the DGUV guideline "Selection, instruction and proof of competence of crane operators", the crane operator must complete training that covers both theoretical and practical content. After successfully passing the exam, you receive the crane operator license, which is often also referred to as a crane license.

Operating a Crane Without a License

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

**Forklifts and their attachments
**These include, for example, forklifts, which are used for in-house transport.

**Aerial platforms
**These devices are often used for work at height, but are not classified as cranes.

**Racking equipment and systems
**These are mainly used in warehouses and are specialized in storing and retrieving goods.

Systems subject to elevator regulations
This includes, for example, passenger and goods elevators that are subject to specific legal requirements.

**Monorail hoists
**These systems are often found in industrial facilities and transport loads along fixed rail paths.

**Forestry cable equipment
**These are commonly used in forestry and are used for transporting logs.

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

**Lifting devices with short lift distances
**If the control devices are attached directly to the load attachment and the lift 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 industry.

**Hook-lift trucks
**These vehicles are used for transporting and unloading containers and do not require a crane license.

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

For manually operated cranes where all movements are performed by muscle power, instruction is required, but no crane license. 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 exam, you receive your crane license. This entitles you to operate cranes and opens up numerous career opportunities, especially in the construction and logistics industries. Make 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 instruction and exam
Authorization by the employer, in writing for mobile cranes

How Much Does a Crane License Cost?

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

Floor-controlled hall cranes: from around 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 takes place in 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-load cranes: 1 day
Floor-controlled cranes: 1 to 5 days
Cab-controlled cranes: 5 to 10 days
Tower cranes: 10 to 15 days
Vehicle cranes: 15 to 20 days

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

Learn more about tower cranes

Rent Cranes at klarx

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

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 now and get advice from our specialists.

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