Obtain the crane license for various crane types

You do not need an official crane license if you operate a small or workshop crane that:

• is not mobile,
• has a low load capacity (e.g. less than 1 t),
• and is not regularly used commercially.

Nevertheless, training according to DGUV V1 and DGUV Rule 100-500 is mandatory – even without a crane license.

No, you can use an indoor cranenot without valid crane trainingserve.

LoudDGUV Regulation 52is aCrane operator training with theoretical and practical exams is mandatory– also for indoor or bridge cranes.

A formal “crane license” is not required by law, but is usually required by companiesrequired as proof of qualification.

If you operate a crane professionally, you need a crane license—whether in a warehouse, on a truck, or out on a construction site. This license is mandatory for all power-driven cranes, such as:

• Bridge and hall cranes
• Truck loading cranes
• Mobile and vehicle cranes
• Tower cranes
• Gantry cranes

As soon as the crane is mobile or lifts large loads, DGUV Regulation 52 applies – and this requires recognized training and an exam. In short: No safe crane job without a license.

Yes, you can fail your crane license– theoretical or practical. This is usually due to safety-related errors, a lack of specialist knowledge, or a lack of concentration during the practical part.

But don’t panic: the exam can be repeated – often even at short notice.And with good training, like the one at BIBERGER, you'll be well prepared. We'll get you through it safely.

To obtain a crane license, you must complete a recognized training course. This consists of:

1. theory: Regulations, safety, technology
2. Practice: Crane operation under instruction
3. Theory test– mostly as multiple choice
4. Practical examdirectly on the crane

The whole process is carried out in accordance with DGUV Regulation 52 and ends with your official crane license – proof that you are allowed to work safely and professionally with the crane.

The crane license is valid indefinitelyt –provided that you are regularly deployed and take part in a safety training course according to DGUV Regulation 1 once a year.

If you haven't worked on a crane for a while or the operating conditions change, a refresher course may be advisable or even required. Better safe than sorry.

Which crane license you need depends on the type of crane and its intended use. Common ones are:

• Indoor crane / bridge crane: Crane operator training according to DGUV V52
• Loading crane (truck crane): Training according to DGUV V52 + entry in driver's license if necessary
• Mobile or truck-mounted crane: Comprehensive training with theory and practice
• Tower crane: Specialized crane training with high responsibility

Training providers such as BIBERGER will advise you on which crane license is required for your application.

To obtain a crane license you need the following requirements:

• Minimum age 18 years
• physical and mental suitability (e.g. according to G25)
• sufficient knowledge of German (for theory & practice)
• Participation in a recognized crane operator training course
• Successful theory and practical examination according to DGUV Regulation 52

A driving license is only required for mobile cranes on public roads – not for stationary indoor cranes.

Without a valid crane license, it can be very expensive – and dangerous – in an emergency:

1. No insurance applies– neither BG nor liability insurance
2. Personal liability for you and your employer
3. Fines or even criminal proceedingsin case of gross negligence
4. Decommissioning by authorities,if regulations are violated repeatedly

The fact is: The crane license is not only mandatory – it protects you and your company from serious legal and financial consequences.

A crane license isvalid indefinitely- there areno legally specified expiry date.

Prerequisite: The crane operator must be instructed regularly, at leastonce a yearafterDGUV Regulation 1.

In case of a longer break or changed operating conditions, aRefresher trainingmay be necessary.

No, with good preparation the crane licenseeasily doable.

The training teaches you all the important content step by step – from safety to technology to practice.

Even as a beginner, you have agood training providers like BIBERGERvery good chances of passing on the first attempt.

What is important is:Attention, understanding of safety rules and some practical experience.

Yes, but only under certain conditions.

If the craneon private property,non-commercialandnot publicly accessibleused (e.g. on a farm or in a workshop),no formal crane license required.

Nevertheless, even in your private life you shouldsafe operation, loads and hazardsBe informed – ideally through training.