What qualifications do I need to become a crane operator?

There are a number of qualifications and requirements you must fulfil in order to work as a crane operator in the UK. These consist of:

1.  A CPCS (Construction Plant Competence Scheme) card that is currently valid. This card serves as evidence that you have finished the required training and are qualified to operate a particular kind of crane. To earn a CPCS card, you must pass both a theory and practical test.
2. Requirements for health and safety: You must be well-versed in health and safety (HSE)  rules and protocols, and you might need to possess an NVQ Level 2 in Occupational Health and Safety in a Construction Environment.
3. First Aid certifications: In case of an emergency, it is important to acquire a first-aid certificate.
4. Additional credentials, such as the NVQ Level 2 in Exact Plant Operations and the NVQ Level 3 in Lifting Operations, may be necessary depending on the specific type of crane you will be operating.
5. Crane operators must possess a five-year-valid CPCS card, which is a prerequisite. With a test and refresher training, you can renew your CPCS card.
6. A valid driver's licence: You must have a valid driver's licence that allows you to operate the type of vehicle you'll be driving if you plan to operate a mobile crane on a public road.
7. All cranes must also adhere to the requirements of the Road Traffic Act, hold a current road fund licence, and be kept in good condition.

To operate a crane on a public road in the UK, a driver's licence of one of a number of different categories is necessary. To find out more about UK driving license categories click here.

These consist of:

1. Category C1: You can operate a vehicle weighing between 3.5 and 7.5 tonnes with this licence. The majority of mobile cranes must be driven in this minimum category.
2. Category C: With this licence, you can operate a car that weighs more than 7.5 tonnes. Larger mobile cranes like all-terrain cranes or truck-mounted cranes must be driven by this type.
3. Category C+E: With this licence, you can operate a vehicle that weighs more than 7.5 tonnes and a trailer that weighs more than 750 kg. Driving crane vehicles or articulating cranes requires this category.
4. Category CPC (Driver Certificate of Professional Competence): You must possess a current CPC card in addition to a valid driver's licence to demonstrate that you have received the required training and are qualified to operate a particular kind of crane.

It's vital to keep in mind that these specifications could change based on the specific crane you'll be using and the business or organisation you'll be working for. Therefore, it is advised that you inquire about the company's or organization's specific needs.

It's also important to note that all cranes must adhere to the requirements of the Road Traffic Act, have a current road fund licence, and be kept in good condition. Also, it may be necessary to contact the local authority to enquire about their regulations and requirements in their area. To find out local authority insert postcode here. For details about what a local authority may need click here.

For more about a CPCS Crane Operator visit here

We also provide training services from our own accredited CPCS Training facilities.