100+ Free MT Crane/Hoisting Operator Practice Questions
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Key Facts: MT Crane/Hoisting Operator Exam
70%
Passing Score
MT DLI Crane/Hoisting Operator Program
6 tons
License Threshold
License required above this capacity
5 years
Reexamination Cycle
MCA Title 50 Chapter 76
$100
First/Second Class Fee
MT DLI fee schedule
1,000 hrs
First Class Prerequisite
Operating at Second Class level
180 days
Physical Exam Validity
Must be within 180 days of application
As of March 2026, Montana licenses crane and hoisting operators under MCA Title 50, Chapter 76. The Dept of Labor and Industry administers written exams with a possible practical component for those with less than 1 year of experience. First Class requires 1 year (1,000 hours) of operating at the Second Class level. NCCCO holders can seek reciprocity under MCA 50-76-113. Licenses are valid for 5 years with biennial physical exams required. The license is required for all hoisting equipment over 6 tons. Fees are $60 for Third Class Oiler and $100 for First/Second Class licenses.
About the MT Crane/Hoisting Operator Exam
Montana requires a state crane/hoisting operator license for equipment over 6 tons under MCA Title 50, Chapter 76. The exam covers state crane regulations, load charts, rigging, safety procedures, and equipment-specific operations. License classes include First Class Crane Hoisting (all cranes/hoists), First Class Hydraulic Hoisting, Second Class Crane Hoisting (6-17.5 tons), Second Class Hydraulic & Boom Truck, Third Class Oiler, Tower Crane, Gantry & Trolley, Mine Hoisting, and Air Tugger. NCCCO holders may bypass the state exam via reciprocity under MCA 50-76-113.
Assessment
State-prescribed written exam plus practical exam for applicants with less than 1 year of experience; NCCCO holders may qualify for reciprocity under MCA 50-76-113
Time Limit
Varies by license class (written + possible practical)
Passing Score
70%
Exam Fee
$60 (Third Class Oiler) / $100 (First and Second Class) (MT Dept of Labor and Industry, Crane/Hoisting Operator Program)
MT Crane/Hoisting Operator Exam Content Outline
MT State Regulations
MCA Title 50 Chapter 76, license classes, 6-ton threshold, NCCCO reciprocity under MCA 50-76-113, renewal and reexamination rules.
Crane Operations
Equipment setup, pre-lift inspections, operational sequencing, boom configuration, outrigger deployment, load handling, and shutdown procedures.
Load Charts and Capacity
Gross vs. net capacity, chart notes, radius and boom-angle interpretation, deductions, configuration selection, and 6-17.5 ton Second Class limits.
Rigging and Signals
Sling types, hitch configurations, hardware inspection, standard hand signals, radio communication, and designated signaler responsibilities.
Safety and Inspections
Physical exam requirements, power-line clearance, ground conditions, fall protection, mine hoisting safety, and equipment inspection protocols.
How to Pass the MT Crane/Hoisting Operator Exam
What You Need to Know
- Passing score: 70%
- Assessment: State-prescribed written exam plus practical exam for applicants with less than 1 year of experience; NCCCO holders may qualify for reciprocity under MCA 50-76-113
- Time limit: Varies by license class (written + possible practical)
- Exam fee: $60 (Third Class Oiler) / $100 (First and Second Class)
Keys to Passing
- Complete 500+ practice questions
- Score 80%+ consistently before scheduling
- Focus on highest-weighted sections
- Use our AI tutor for tough concepts
MT Crane/Hoisting Operator Study Tips from Top Performers
Frequently Asked Questions
Does NCCCO certification replace the Montana crane operator exam?
NCCCO holders may qualify for reciprocity under MCA 50-76-113, which can bypass the state-prescribed written exam. However, you must still apply through the MT Dept of Labor and Industry and meet all other state requirements including the physical exam.
What are the Montana crane operator license classes?
Montana offers several license classes: First Class Crane Hoisting (all cranes/hoists), First Class Hydraulic Hoisting, Second Class Crane Hoisting (6-17.5 tons), Second Class Hydraulic & Boom Truck, Third Class Oiler, First/Second Class Tower Crane, First Class Gantry & Trolley, Mine Hoisting, and Air Tugger.
When is a Montana crane operator license required?
A Montana crane/hoisting operator license is required for operating hoisting equipment with a capacity over 6 tons. Equipment at or below 6 tons does not require a state license.
What are the prerequisites for a First Class Montana crane license?
First Class applicants must be at least 18 years old, have a physical exam within 180 days, and have at least 1 year (1,000 hours) of operating experience at the Second Class level. The exam fee is $100.
How long is a Montana crane operator license valid?
Montana crane operator licenses require a 5-year reexamination cycle. However, biennial (every 2 years) physical exams are required throughout the license period to maintain active status.