Education Requirements for Hoisting Engineer License

Learn more about exam requirements and resources to review before applying for or renewing your Hoisting Engineer License.

Overview

Below is information about exam requirements and educational resources to either apply for, renew, or upgrade a Hoisting Engineer License.

Visit Apply for a Hoisting Engineer License to learn more about the application process.

Visit Renew your Hoisting Engineer License to learn more about how to renew an existing license.

Exam requirements

To receive, upgrade, or renew a hoisting license, you must pass a written exam administered by the Office of Public Safety and Inspections (OPSI). To pass, you must earn a minimum grade of 70%. 

The exam tests the following: 

• Do you know how to operate the equipment properly? 
• Can you read and understand safety codes, placards, and any related safety information? 
• Do you understand emergency procedures related to the equipment and facilities? 
• Do you understand the laws and regulations in Massachusetts related to hoisting machinery? 

What to review before taking the exam

To prepare for the exam, you should review all equipment operating instructions and manuals. You should also review the Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 146, Sections 53 – 54A and Sections 64 – 67 and the Massachusetts Regulations 520 CMR 6.00 for hoisting machinery.

Crane and excavator operators should also know the national standard hand signals found in 520 CMR 6.00 in order to pass the Crane and Excavator Examination.   

You can find the information above at your local library as well as the State House Bookstore. 

Other resources to help you prepare

• OSHA's Construction Safety Regulations (29 CFR 1926) 
•  Dig Safe 
  • A private, not-for-profit organization and free service for excavation projects that offers information on Laws and Regulations and Education 
• Bob's Industrial Publications 
  • Offers crane and rigging handbooks, safety information, and other reference materials in both English and Spanish. These materials can be purchased via Bob's Industrial Publications Online Shop.

Continuing Education

• Before you renew your license, you must complete any continuing education.
• Continuing education can't be applied to more than one renewal.
• Only certificates from approved continuing education providers will be accepted in renewal applications. For a list of approved continuing education providers, visit OPSI Key Resources.

If you need to drop a restriction on your license, you will have to re-take the exam if you want to operate that equipment in the future. Valid licenses must have at least one restriction.