Overhead Crane Operator - CCO Prep - CraneTech

Overhead Crane Operator – CCO Prep

Earn national certification as an Overhead Crane Operator through CCO. This program combines classroom instruction, hands-on skill development, and full CCO written and practical exams—helping experienced operators meet OSHA and ASME requirements.

Is Overhead Crane CCO Certification the right course for you?

You’re an experienced overhead-crane or hoist operator ready to achieve national CCO certification (formerly NCCCO).
You want a single, complete program that covers all training, applications, and exam administration directly through Crane Tech.
You need to demonstrate compliance with OSHA 1910.179 and 1926.1438, plus applicable ASME standards.

After this course, participants will be able to:

Conduct pre-use and operational inspections in line with ASME B30.2, ASME B30.9, B30.10, ASME B30.17 B30.20 and B30.26
Apply safe load-handling, signaling, and communication techniques.
Identify and prevent hazards such as side loading, shock loading, and load swing.
Operate bridge, gantry, and overhead cranes safely through all phases of lift.
Confidently sit for CCO overhead written and practical exams.

Training Options

Crane Tech Campus

Public classes feature instructor-led lessons, guided practice, and on-site CCO testing.

At Your Facility

Host a certification preparation and testing session at your site, tailored to your equipment and work conditions.

Topics Covered

OSHA 1910.179 and 1926 Subpart CC requirements
ASME B30.2, ASME B30.9, B30.10, ASME B30.17 B30.20 and B30.26 standards
Pre-operational inspection activities: emergency stops, disconnects, lockout/tag-out, control testing, and labeling.
Work requirements: load weight calculation, rigging and below-the-hook devices, true vertical lift, signaling, and communication
Load handling: hoist brake checks, safe start/travel/stop techniques, warning alarms, and maintaining a clear load path
Shutdown and secure procedures: proper parking, disconnecting power, and reporting deficiencies
Technical knowledge: OSHA and ASME standards, terminology, safety devices, and operational best practices

Compliance

OSHA 1910.179 – Overhead and Gantry Cranes
OSHA 1926.1438 – Cranes and Derricks in Construction
ASME B30.2 – Overhead and Gantry Cranes
ASME B30.9 – Slings
ASME B30.10 – Hooks
ASME B30.17 – Underhung Overhead Cranes
ASME B30.20 – Below-the-Hook Lifting Devices
ASME B30.26 – Rigging Hardware

Completing this program and passing the CCO exams provides nationally recognized certification verifying the operator’s ability to safely operate overhead and gantry cranes in full regulatory compliance.

Training format

Three-day program blending classroom instruction, demonstrations, and hands-on performance practice.

Includes:

• Daily skill development and review

• CCO Overhead Crane Operator written and practical exams

• All testing administered and coordinated through Crane Tech

Prerequisites

Participants must:

• Be 18 years of age or older

• Be able to read and understand English (verbal and written)

• Hold or create a myCCO account before class (for exam registration)

• Have prior experience operating overhead cranes

Materials included

Each participant receives:

• Overhead Crane Operator training manual and workbook

• Practice tests reflecting current CCO domain content

• CCO application forms and administrative support—Crane Tech manages all exam scheduling and registration directly with CCO

Exam Logistics

• Written and practical CCO exams and fees are included with this course.

• All testing is administered and scheduled through Crane Tech in coordination with CCO.

• Certification cards are issued by CCO Certification upon successful completion of both exams.

Related Courses

Overhead & Gantry Crane Operator

Overhead Crane Inspector

Rigger Level 2 Qualification

Frequently Asked Questions

Who should take this course?

Experienced overhead crane operators who need to earn national CCO certification to meet OSHA and ASME requirements.

Are CCO exams included?

Yes. This course includes both the CCO written and practical exams, along with guided preparation and hands-on practice specific to each test. All exam applications, scheduling, and administration are handled directly through Crane Tech.

How do I register for the exams?

Crane Tech completes all exam applications and coordinates directly with CCO. Participants must have an active myCCO account before training.

How long is CCO certification valid?

CCO certification is valid for five years. Recertification training and testing are available through Crane Tech.

What’s the difference between qualification and certification?

Certification (such as CCO) is a third-party credential that verifies an operator’s general knowledge and skills. Qualification is the employer’s responsibility and requires a documented, hands-on evaluation of the operator’s ability to safely operate specific equipment in their work environment.

Under OSHA 1926.1427(f), certification alone does not make an operator qualified. Employers must conduct and document an equipment-specific evaluation. Crane Tech can support employers by providing compliant operator evaluations when needed, separate from certification and exam prep.

What if I don’t pass an exam the first time?

Our team will guide you through your options and help plan your next steps. In some cases, a practical retest may be completed immediately if time and resources allow. Written exams include a CCO-mandated waiting period before retesting, and we’ll assist with scheduling and preparation for your next attempt.

Training Programs

CCO Certification Prep

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Overhead Crane Operator – CCO Prep

3-Day Course

Is Overhead Crane CCO Certification the right course for you?

After this course, participants will be able to: