100+ Free MT Crane/Hoisting Operator Practice Questions

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ArticleFree Crane Operator Practice Test by State 2026: 600+ Questions21 min read

2026 Statistics

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.

Sample MT Crane/Hoisting Operator Practice Questions

Try these sample questions to test your MT Crane/Hoisting Operator exam readiness. Each question includes a detailed explanation. Start the interactive quiz above for the full 100+ question experience with AI tutoring.

1Under Montana Code Annotated (MCA) Title 50, Chapter 76, which agency administers the Crane and Hoisting Operator licensing program?

A.Montana Department of Environmental Quality

B.Montana Department of Labor and Industry (DLI)

C.Montana Department of Transportation

D.OSHA Region 8

Explanation: The Montana Department of Labor and Industry (DLI) administers the Crane and Hoisting Operator licensing program under MCA Title 50, Chapter 76. This is a state-run program separate from federal OSHA oversight. The DLI sets examination requirements, issues licenses, and enforces compliance.

2What is the minimum age requirement to apply for a Montana crane or hoisting operator license?

A.16 years old

B.18 years old

C.21 years old

D.25 years old

Explanation: Montana requires all crane and hoisting operator license applicants to be at least 18 years of age. This age requirement is a prerequisite established under MCA Title 50, Chapter 76. Applicants must also meet physical fitness standards in addition to the age requirement.

3Under MCA Title 50, Chapter 76, a Montana hoisting operator license is required for equipment exceeding what capacity threshold?

A.3 tons

B.5 tons

C.6 tons

D.10 tons

Explanation: Montana law requires a hoisting operator license for any crane or hoisting equipment with a rated capacity exceeding 6 tons. Equipment at or below 6 tons does not require a state hoisting license. This 6-ton threshold is a key regulatory distinction that operators must understand.

4How much is the Montana licensing fee for a Third Class Oiler license?

A.$25

B.$60

C.$100

D.$150

Explanation: The Montana Third Class Oiler license fee is $60, which is lower than the $100 fee charged for First Class and Second Class licenses. The Third Class Oiler classification is Montana's entry-level hoisting credential, allowing the holder to assist crane operators in maintaining and servicing equipment.

5What is the licensing fee for a First Class or Second Class crane hoisting operator license in Montana?

A.$60

B.$75

C.$100

D.$200

Explanation: Montana charges a $100 fee for First Class and Second Class crane hoisting operator licenses. This is higher than the $60 fee for a Third Class Oiler license, reflecting the greater scope of work these classifications permit. The fee covers the initial examination and license issuance.

6Under MCA 50-76-113, holders of which national certification may be eligible for reciprocity to bypass Montana's state crane operator exam?

A.OSHA 30-Hour Construction

B.NCCCO (National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators)

C.AWS Certified Welding Inspector

D.NCCER Mobile Crane Operator

Explanation: Under MCA 50-76-113, holders of NCCCO (National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators) certification may bypass the Montana state written exam through reciprocity. NCCCO is the nationally recognized credentialing body for crane operators, and Montana acknowledges this certification as meeting equivalent competency standards.

7Within how many days before applying must a Montana crane operator applicant have completed a physical examination?

A.90 days

B.120 days

C.180 days

D.365 days

Explanation: Montana requires that a crane operator license applicant's physical examination must have been completed within 180 days (approximately 6 months) prior to the application date. This ensures the applicant's physical fitness is current and relevant to safely operating heavy lifting equipment.

8What experience is required to upgrade from a Second Class to a First Class Crane Hoisting license in Montana?

A.6 months (500 hours) at Second Class level

B.1 year (1,000 hours) at Second Class level

C.2 years (2,000 hours) at Second Class level

D.3 years (3,000 hours) at Second Class level

Explanation: To upgrade to a First Class Crane Hoisting license, Montana requires 1 year (1,000 hours) of documented experience operating at the Second Class level. This progression ensures operators gain adequate practical experience with smaller-capacity cranes before advancing to unrestricted crane operation.

9What is the capacity range for a Montana Second Class Crane Hoisting license?

A.Up to 6 tons

B.6 to 17.5 tons

C.6 to 25 tons

D.Unlimited capacity

Explanation: A Montana Second Class Crane Hoisting license authorizes the holder to operate cranes with a rated capacity between 6 and 17.5 tons. Equipment at or below 6 tons does not require a license, and cranes exceeding 17.5 tons require a First Class license. This tiered system ensures operators gain progressive experience.

10A Montana First Class Crane Hoisting license permits operation of cranes and hoists of what capacity?

A.6 to 17.5 tons only

B.Up to 25 tons only

C.All cranes and hoists regardless of capacity

D.Over 50 tons only

Explanation: A Montana First Class Crane Hoisting license authorizes the holder to operate all cranes and hoists regardless of rated capacity. This is the highest general crane classification in Montana and requires prior experience at the Second Class level. It covers lattice boom, telescopic, and other crane types without a capacity limitation.

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

20%

MT State Regulations

MCA Title 50 Chapter 76, license classes, 6-ton threshold, NCCCO reciprocity under MCA 50-76-113, renewal and reexamination rules.

25%

Crane Operations

Equipment setup, pre-lift inspections, operational sequencing, boom configuration, outrigger deployment, load handling, and shutdown procedures.

20%

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.

20%

Rigging and Signals

Sling types, hitch configurations, hardware inspection, standard hand signals, radio communication, and designated signaler responsibilities.

15%

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

1Read MCA Title 50, Chapter 76 carefully — it defines all license classes, the 6-ton threshold, experience requirements, and reciprocity provisions.

2Know the difference between First Class and Second Class licenses, especially the 6-17.5 ton capacity limit for Second Class Crane Hoisting.

3Study NCCCO reciprocity rules under MCA 50-76-113 so you understand when the state exam can be bypassed and what paperwork is still required.

4Practice load chart interpretation for both conventional and hydraulic cranes since Montana issues separate license categories for each.

5Focus on mine hoisting safety if you plan to work in Montana's mining industry — it is a separate license class with specific requirements.

6Review physical exam requirements including the 180-day validity period and biennial renewal obligation.

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.

100+ Free MT Crane/Hoisting Operator Practice Questions

Montana Crane Operator