ILLINOIS · operating-engineer
Chicago Crane Operator License (Class I & II)
City of Chicago Department of Buildings — Board of Crane Operator ExaminersScope of Work
Illinois does not maintain a statewide crane operator license; in Illinois the state-level crane-licensure layer beyond OSHA / NCCCO exists at the city of Chicago. The Chicago Crane Operator License is required for any individual to operate a crane in connection with any work that requires a building permit within the City of Chicago, where the equipment has a rated lifting/hoisting capacity of one ton (2,000 pounds) or more. Source: City of Chicago — Crane Operator License (https://www.chicago.gov/city/en/depts/bldgs/supp_info/TLdetails/CRoperator.html) and Chicago Municipal Code Chapter 4-288 — Crane Operators (https://codelibrary.amlegal.com/codes/chicago/latest/chicago_il/0-0-0-2637617).
Legal basis
Chicago Municipal Code Chapter 4-288. Crane operator licenses are issued by the Board of Crane Operator Examiners through the Department of Buildings. Continental Testing Services processes crane operator license applications and administers written examinations on behalf of the Department of Buildings.
Equipment definition
A 'crane' is any power-operated mechanical hoisting equipment with a manufacturer's rated capacity of one ton (2,000 pounds) or more that lifts, lowers, rotates, or moves a load horizontally or vertically.
Exam
Applicants must pass both a written and practical examination demonstrating knowledge of crane operations and safety practices, as well as competency and fitness to operate the specific type(s) of crane(s). Class I and Class II categories cover different equipment scopes; the practical exam is administered for each class on the equipment for which the license is sought.
Eligibility
To be eligible to take the written examination, an individual must have worked as a crane operator for at least 2,000 hours during the preceding 48-month period, or have completed an apprenticeship program recognized by the Board of Crane Operator Examiners.
Apprentice license
Licensed crane operators may be assisted by licensed apprentice crane operators working under their direct supervision and control (separate apprentice license — see City of Chicago Apprentice Crane Operator License page).
Federal overlay
OSHA 29 CFR 1926.1427 (Subpart CC) certification applies on top. NCCCO certification is the typical OSHA-compliance pathway.
Renewal
Editor verification required for current renewal cycle, fees, and CE requirements.
Illinois statewide note
Outside of Chicago, Illinois does not maintain a statewide crane-operator state license; OSHA Subpart CC certification (typically NCCCO) is the operative federal requirement, and local jurisdictions may impose additional requirements.
Verified May 1, 2026 · compiled from public sources, verify current rules with City of Chicago Department of Buildings — Board of Crane Operator Examiners before acting