Getting a crane license: Theory and practice for prospective crane operators

Are you about to get your crane license ?

Here you will find out what the crane license is, how the training and examination take place and what costs you can expect.

Introduction

What is the crane license?

A crane license is proof that someone can operate a crane safely and professionally. In Germany, it is mandatory for everyone who works with cranes professionally. The crane license shows that the crane operator has been trained in theory and practice and has important knowledge of safety, load handling and crane operation. This training helps to prevent accidents and ensure safe crane operation.

It entitles the holder to operate certain types of cranes, such as tower cranes, mobile cranes or indoor cranes, as part of his professional activities.

costs for the crane license

This is what the crane license costs

The costs for the crane driver's license can vary depending on the provider, region and crane type. As a rule, the training costs for a crane driver's license are between 500 and 1,500 euros, including course materials and examination fees. Since the crane driver's license significantly expands the professional opportunities, this investment is a worthwhile qualification for many. Cost differences often arise from the length of the training and the type of crane for which the training is aimed, e.g. tower crane or truck loading crane.

funding opportunities

In some cases, the employment agency offers financial support for crane training, especially if the crane driver's license improves career prospects. Some employers also cover the course costs or offer subsidies, as the crane driver's license is a valuable additional qualification for many companies. Participants should find out about funding options before starting the course in order to receive financial support.

Training and education to become a crane operator

Requirements for the crane driver's license

The prerequisite for obtaining a crane driver's license is a minimum age of 18 years and physical fitness, particularly eyesight and hearing. A good knowledge of German is also important, as many safety and operating instructions are available in German.

content of the training

theory

Similar to the lifting platform license , the theoretical part of the crane training first covers the basics. The basics of crane operation, important professional association regulations and accident prevention are covered. You learn what dangers can arise when operating a crane and how you can protect yourself and others. The training in the seminar includes chapters such as DGUV Regulation 52 and DGUV Rule 100-500 and thus lays the foundation for safe practice in order to be able to operate a crane in the future.

Practice

The practical part of the crane training includes exercises on controlling and operating the crane, safely slinging loads and supporting the crane at the site. Participants practice using the controls safely and learn how to move loads stably and precisely. After passing the practical test, participants receive a crane license, which allows them to operate cranes in the commercial sector.

Annual instruction

Anyone who wants to operate a crane must attend a training session at least once a year after crane training to refresh their knowledge and to learn about current safety standards and new regulations. This regular training is mandatory and helps to prevent accidents caused by unsafe operation. The training ensures that knowledge about the safe use of cranes is always up to date.

crane types and specific crane licenses

There are different types of cranes , each of which requires specific knowledge and skills. Special crane licenses are required to operate certain types of cranes, such as tower cranes or truck-mounted cranes. These qualifications address the specific requirements and safety precautions of each type of crane and ensure that the crane operator can use the equipment safely.

tower crane

A tower crane is a large and powerful crane that is often used on building construction sites. The tower crane license provides special knowledge for the safe installation, operation and movement of heavy loads at great heights. The training is demanding because the tower crane places special demands on stability and safety precautions.

truck loading crane

A truck-mounted crane is a mobile crane that is mounted on a truck and is often used to load and unload materials. The training for the truck-mounted crane license includes content such as correctly supporting the vehicle, operating the crane and safely slinging loads. This type of crane license is particularly in demand in the logistics and transport sectors.

mobile cranes and other types of cranes

In addition to the indoor crane, tower cranes and truck-mounted cranes, there are also other types of crane, such as bridge cranes and indoor cranes, each of which has its own requirements for operation. Depending on the area of ​​application and the type of crane, the training can vary. Anyone who wants to operate several types of crane can therefore acquire additional training and crane licenses to expand the range of possible applications.

FAQ

For which crane do you need a crane license?

In Germany, crane operator training is required for all cranes that lift and move loads. This includes tower cranes, indoor cranes, truck-mounted cranes, bridge cranes and other types of cranes used commercially. The crane license ensures that crane operators have the necessary skills to operate cranes safely and in accordance with the regulations of the professional associations, and thus makes a significant contribution to accident prevention.

Is a crane license mandatory?

Yes, a crane operator's license is mandatory in Germany if cranes are operated commercially. The crane license is for safety reasons and is required by law by the regulations of the professional associations in order to avoid accidents when operating cranes.

How long is the crane license valid?

A crane license is valid indefinitely. However, crane operators must complete appropriate training at least once a year to refresh their knowledge and the safe operation of cranes in accordance with current regulations.

Is the crane license difficult?

The crane license is easy to obtain. The exam consists of a theoretical and a practical part, in which all the important basics are explained and practiced step by step to the prospective crane operators . With sufficient preparation and the right knowledge about how to operate cranes safely, most participants pass the theoretical and practical exams.

How do you get a crane license?

The "crane operator's license" can be obtained from certified training providers, vocational schools or training centers that specialize in the training of crane operators.

Special training centers of the Chamber of Industry and Commerce (IHK) as well as some larger construction and logistics companies also offer crane license training. Some courses also offer the option of completing the theoretical part online while the practical part takes place on site.

Are you looking for a training center near you? Here you can find all our SYSTEM-CARD training centers