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

Zusammenfassung

Anyone who carries out crane work needs a crane license.

It is mandatory for commercial use – whether on construction sites, in warehouses, or in industry. The training includes both theory and practice and concludes with an exam.

• Valid for: e.g. truck loading cranes, tower cranes, indoor cranes
• Cost: depending on the crane type approx. 500–1,500 €
• Requirements: Minimum age 18 years, health suitability, knowledge of German
• Duty: annual instruction for safe handling

Tip:Funding opportunities are available through employers or employment agencies.

Are you about to get your crane license ?

Here you will learn what a crane license is, how the training and exams work, and what costs you can expect.

Introduction

What is the crane license?

The crane license is official proof that a person is authorized to operate a crane safely, professionally, and legally . In Germany, it is mandatory for everyone who works with cranes professionally – whether in construction, industry, or intralogistics.

The training includes both theoretical content —such as regulations, load handling equipment, and safety rules—as well as practical exercises on the respective crane type . The goal is to prevent accidents and ensure safe, efficient crane operation .

With a valid crane license, you are authorized to operate certain types of cranes, such as tower cranes, mobile cranes, or overhead cranes, as part of your professional activities. Which crane you are permitted to operate depends on your training and the respective type of qualification.

Costs for the crane license

This is what the crane license costs

The cost of a crane operator's license depends on the provider, region, and crane type . Typically, it ranges between €500 and €1,500 , including training materials, practical training, and exam fees.

The decisive factor for the price is above all the type of crane for which the training is aimed: training courses for mobile cranes or tower cranes are usually more extensive and therefore more expensive than courses for indoor or truck loading cranes.

The length of the training – usually between two and five days – also influences the total cost. Despite the investment, the crane operator's license is a sought-after additional qualification that significantly expands your career options and creates new opportunities in the long term.

Funding opportunities

In certain cases, the Federal Employment Agency will help cover the costs of a crane operator's license —particularly if the qualification significantly improves job market prospects . This usually requires a consultation and the issuance of a training voucher .

Many employers also cover all or part of the course costs if the crane operator's license is required for the job or expands the company's range of applications. For companies, investing in qualified personnel is often an economic advantage.

Our tip: Before starting your course, find out about possible funding programs, grants, or cost sharing options to secure financial support. Clarifying this early on not only saves money but also provides planning security.

Training and education to become a crane operator

Requirements for the crane driver's license

To obtain a crane operator's license, you must be at least 18 years old and demonstrate physical fitness to operate a crane safely. Good eyesight and hearing are particularly important, as the work requires full concentration and clear perception.

In addition, sufficient knowledge of German is generally required – many safety regulations, operating instructions, and examination documents are available exclusively in German. Anyone who wants to operate a crane safely must be able to understand and apply this content.

Contents of the training

theory

Similar to the aerial platform driver's license, the theoretical part of the crane training first covers the basics. The basics of crane operation, important employers' liability insurance regulations, and accident prevention are covered. You'll learn about the hazards that can occur when operating a crane and how to protect yourself and others. The seminar training covers topics such as DGUV Regulation 52 and DGUV Rule 100-500, laying the foundation for safe practice in the future of crane operation.

Practice

The practical part of the crane training includes exercises in controlling and operating the crane, safely slinging loads , and supporting the crane at the job site. Participants practice safe handling of the controls and learn how to move loads stably and precisely. After passing the practical exam, participants receive a crane license, which entitles them to operate cranes in commercial operations.

Annual instruction

Anyone wishing to operate a crane must attend a training session at least once a year after completing crane training to refresh their knowledge and familiarize themselves with current safety standards and new regulations. This regular training is mandatory and helps prevent accidents caused by unsafe operation. This training ensures that knowledge of safe crane handling is always up to date.

Crane types and specific crane certificates

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

tower crane

A tower crane is a large, powerful crane frequently used on construction sites. A tower crane operator's license provides specialized knowledge for safely erecting, operating, and moving heavy loads at great heights. The training is demanding, as tower cranes place special demands on stability and safety precautions.

Truck loading crane

A truck-mounted crane is a mobile crane mounted on a truck and often used for loading and unloading materials. Training for a truck-mounted crane license covers topics such as properly 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 indoor cranes, tower cranes, and truck-mounted cranes, there are also other types of cranes, such as overhead cranes and overhead cranes, each of which has its own operating requirements. Training can vary depending on the application and crane type. Those who wish to operate multiple crane types can therefore acquire additional training and crane licenses to expand their range of applications.

How do you get a crane license?

The "Crane Operator's Licence" can be obtained from certified training providers, vocational schools or training centres that specialise in the training of crane operators.

Special training centers of the Chamber of Industry and Commerce (IHK) and 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

About the author

Benjamin Biberger

Managing Director

Benjamin is the founder and managing director of BIBERGER Arbeitsbühnen & Forklifts.

He is responsible for thecommercial and administrative areasof the company and, together with his team, ensures theOptimization of operational processesand theoptimal customer supportin their projects.

Through his many years of experience in the areas of organization andProject managementIt provides a stable foundation – in its own daily business, in sustainableFurther development of processesas well as in theCollaboration with partners and customers.