The National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators (NCCCO) exam is essential for crane operators. This test provides the certification required for construction crane operators, proving their skills and knowledge in crane operation. Successfully passing the CCO exams opens new doors for crane operators.
What to Expect During NCCCO Exams
Eligibility factors to pass the NCCCO exam include:
- Being 18 years of age or older.
- Passing both the written and practical examinations.
- Complying with CCO's Substance Abuse Policy and Code of Ethics.
Both the written and practical portions of the NCCCO exam require preparation. Knowing what to expect allows you to test your abilities and find your improvement areas.
Written Exam
The written exam is a timed test of your operator knowledge. It is a multiple-choice format that pushes your knowledge to the limit. Some of the questions are written to sound confusing, but the NCCCO test does not include any trick questions — rather, the exam requires you to apply critical thinking to what you know to get the right answer.
When applying to take the written exam, you can choose one of three formats — online proctored, in-person at a testing center, or event online testing. Written tests will take up no more than five and a half hours of your day.
Practical Exam
To take the practical exam, you will need to apply and schedule a time slot. The practical exam tests your operator skills and exam administrators will score your performance based on standardized procedures. You should receive your score around 12 business days after your testing date.
Top CCO Exam Study Tips
Use these NCCCO exam study tips:
1. Take a class: Thorough preparation is crucial. Preparatory classes cover essential details that you might miss. These courses also provide opportunities to take practice tests before the real exam.
2. Review the handbook: The candidate manual contains all the information you need for the test. Download the handbook from the CCO's website and use it to guide your preparation.
3. Follow regulations by the book: Familiarize yourself with safety guidelines and best practices for crane operation, particularly the regulations of the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). Even experienced operators may need a reminder of mandated safety practices.
4. Have extensive practical experience: The CCO certification exam is designed for experienced operators. If you lack experience, you need extensive training to reach the necessary level.
5. Answer every question: Even if you are unsure about an answer, select one — you will receive credit for correct responses without penalties for incorrect ones.
6. Review load charts: Load charts are integral to the testing process. To prepare, review these charts on the CCO website and practice sample problems in class.
7. Pay attention: Focus fully on your training and practice tests. Minimize distractions, like your cell phone, during study sessions.
8. Do your homework: Preparation is key. Review written materials and practice your skills to get ready for the exams.
9. Recertification: Even if you passed the test five years ago, changes in regulations and test content may affect your current ability to pass. A class can help you stay updated.
10. Take an online practice quiz: Our online practice quizzes will not replace the knowledge and training that you would receive at our expert-led preparatory courses, but they can give you an idea of how familiar you are with some of the exam material.
Simplify Passing the CCO Exams With CICB
If you are preparing for your CCO exams, CICB provides tailored training solutions that enhance compliance and operational safety. With over 50 years of experience and customized, application-specific training, we offer expert support. Our certified and experienced trainers deliver high-quality education, preparing workforces to meet compliance standards and expand their skills.
Plus, CICB offers a unique guarantee — everyone who attends our program will pass the written exam. If personnel fail the written portion, they can attend another CICB CCO Preparatory course at no extra cost. Set your team up for success with CICB. Contact us today and schedule a consultation to learn more about our exam prep.
