100+ Free MA Crane Operator Practice Questions
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Key Facts: MA Crane Operator Exam
~40
Written Exam Questions
OPSI hoisting engineer exam
70%
Passing Score
OPSI minimum passing requirement
$75
Fee Per Grade
Non-refundable exam fee
60 days
Retest Wait Period
After a failed exam attempt
5 grades
License Grades
1A, 1B, 1C, 1D, and 2A
18+
Minimum Age
MA eligibility requirement
As of March 2026, the Massachusetts hoisting engineer license requires approximately 40 multiple-choice questions with a 70% passing score, administered monthly by OPSI (Division of Occupational Licensure). The fee is $75 per grade (non-refundable). Applicants must be 18+ with a valid driver's license or MA ID and DOT Medical Certificate. The exam covers MGL Chapter 146 Sections 53-54A and 64-67, 520 CMR 6.00, OSHA 1926 and 1910, Dig Safe, hand signals, and rigging. License grades: 1A (all hoisting), 1B (crawler & mobile cranes), 1C (industrial lift trucks), 1D (aerial lifts & forklifts), 2A (excavators). Failed candidates must wait 60 days to retest. NCCCO is not required — this is an independent state system.
About the MA Crane Operator Exam
The Massachusetts Hoisting Engineer License is an independent state licensing program administered by OPSI (Division of Occupational Licensure). The exam covers MGL Chapter 146, 520 CMR 6.00, OSHA construction and general industry crane standards, safe operating practices, hand signals, rigging, load charts, and Massachusetts Dig Safe law. License grades include 1A (all hoisting), 1B (crawler & mobile cranes), 1C (industrial lift trucks), 1D (aerial lifts & forklifts), and 2A (excavators). Applicants must be 18+, hold a valid driver's license or MA ID, and have a DOT Medical Certificate. The exam is widely regarded as one of the hardest state crane operator exams in the United States.
Assessment
Approximately 40 multiple-choice questions on monthly exam dates; covers MGL Chapter 146, 520 CMR 6.00, OSHA 1926/1910, hand signals, rigging, load charts, and Dig Safe
Time Limit
Not publicly specified by OPSI
Passing Score
70%
Exam Fee
$75 per grade (non-refundable) (OPSI, Division of Occupational Licensure)
MA Crane Operator Exam Content Outline
State Law & OSHA Standards
MGL Chapter 146, 520 CMR 6.00, OSHA 1926 Subpart CC, OSHA 1910.179, license grades 1A through 2A, penalties, and employer responsibilities.
Load Charts & Calculations
Gross and net capacity, deductions, chart notes, radius-capacity relationship, quadrant charts, boom deflection effects, and parts of line.
Safe Operations & Dig Safe
Power-line procedures, Dig Safe law and APWA color codes, personnel hoisting, weather, emergency procedures, and stop-work authority.
Inspection, Rigging & Signals
OSHA inspection requirements, wire rope removal criteria, sling angles and capacity, rigging hardware, standard hand signals, and shift inspection.
How to Pass the MA Crane Operator Exam
What You Need to Know
- Passing score: 70%
- Assessment: Approximately 40 multiple-choice questions on monthly exam dates; covers MGL Chapter 146, 520 CMR 6.00, OSHA 1926/1910, hand signals, rigging, load charts, and Dig Safe
- Time limit: Not publicly specified by OPSI
- Exam fee: $75 per grade (non-refundable)
Keys to Passing
- Complete 500+ practice questions
- Score 80%+ consistently before scheduling
- Focus on highest-weighted sections
- Use our AI tutor for tough concepts
MA Crane Operator Study Tips from Top Performers
Frequently Asked Questions
How many questions are on the Massachusetts hoisting engineer exam?
The Massachusetts hoisting engineer written exam consists of approximately 40 multiple-choice questions. A score of 70% or higher is required to pass. Exams are offered on monthly dates set by OPSI.
What are the Massachusetts hoisting engineer license grades?
Massachusetts issues five grades: 1A (all hoisting equipment), 1B (crawler & mobile cranes), 1C (industrial lift trucks), 1D (aerial lifts & forklifts), and 2A (excavators).
Why is the Massachusetts hoisting engineer exam considered so difficult?
The MA exam covers an unusually broad range of topics including state law (MGL Chapter 146), state regulations (520 CMR 6.00), both OSHA 1926 and 1910, Dig Safe law, hand signals, rigging, and load charts. Most other state exams focus on fewer topics.
How long must I wait to retake the Massachusetts hoisting engineer exam?
Failed candidates must wait 60 days before retesting. The $75 per grade fee applies again for each retest attempt. Monthly exam dates mean candidates may need to wait for the next available date after their 60-day period.
Is NCCCO certification accepted in Massachusetts?
No. Massachusetts operates a fully independent state licensing program. NCCCO certification does not substitute for the MA hoisting engineer license. Operators must pass the state exam.