Recertification Frequently Asked Questions

  1. Why should I recertify?
  2. What happens if I don’t recertify?
  3. What do I have to do to recertify?
  4. What’s on the recertification written exam?
  5. Why is a written examination necessary?
  6. Do I have to take the practical exam?
  7. What does recertification cost?
  8. How can I apply to take the written recertification examinations?
  9. How will I know my certification is expiring?
  10. How soon before my certification expires can I recertify?
  11. When does my new 5-year certification period begin?
  12. What if I have more questions?

Why should I recertify?
As a nationally certified crane operator, you have demonstrated you are skilled and knowledgeable about crane operations. Employers increasingly prefer CCO-certified operators over others who are not certified. By recertifying at this time you will protect your valuable credential for the long term. And the new CCO photo-ID card you will receive will identify you to your co-workers and employers as someone who cares about what you do, and the way you do it. (top)

What happens if I don’t recertify?
If you don’t recertify by the deadline, your certification will expire. In order to be certified again in the future, you’ll have to take the full written and practical examinations over again. (top)

What do I have to do to recertify?
You’ll need to take a written recertification exam for the specialties you want to stay certified in. You must also continue to meet physical requirements and comply with the substance abuse policy and the NCCCO Code of Ethics.(top)

What’s on the recertification written exam?
It’s a much shorter exam than you took to certify initially: there are just 40 questions on the recertification Core exam and 10 questions on each of the four Specialties. Three of the questions in each Specialty exam are calculation load chart questions. You’ll be through with all the tests in 21/2 hours. (top)

Why is a written examination necessary?
It’s very important to keep up to date with advances in technology, as well as changes in standards and regulations. For that reason, many professions now require periodic training and examination. While the recertification exams cover the same areas of knowledge as the main exams, they’ve been updated to reflect the latest developments in technology as well as safety standards and practices. (top)

Do I have to take the practical exam?
Once you have passed the practical exam, you do not need to take it again so long as you maintain 1,000 hours of crane-related experience during your five-year certification period, and you continue to meet physical requirements and comply with the NCCCO substance abuse policy and Code of Ethics. (top)

What does recertification cost?
Recertification costs less than your initial certification: $150 for the Core recertification exam plus one Specialty, and $5 for each additional Specialty. That’s the equivalent of just $33 per year over your five-year certification period. Cost of the Practical Exam is $60 for the first category, and $10 for each of the other two, if taken at the same time. (top)

How can I apply to take the written recertification examinations?
Recertification exams are available at regular test administrations. In the first instance, contact the Test Site Coordinator who set up your initial certification exams. If your employment circumstances have changed, ask your new employer to schedule a test, or have him call NCCCO for information on how to set up a test site. (top)

How will I know my certification is expiring?
Your CCO certification is good for five (5) years. Although it is your responsibility to be aware of your approaching expiration date, you’ll receive a letter from NCCCO notifying you of your certification status and your need to recertify. If you have moved since you were initially certified, please contact NCCCO with your change of address. (top)

How soon before my certification expires can I recertify?
You can take the written recertification exams, and if necessary the practical recertification exams, up to 12 months prior to your expiration date. (top)

When does my new 5-year certification period begin?
 Regardless of when, during the 12 months prior to your expiration date, you pass the recertification exam, your 5-year recertification begins from the date your initial certification expired. (top)

What if I have more questions?
In most instances, your employer or Test Site Coordinator will be able to answer more detailed questions. Or, just send an email to NCCCO. (top)

Information Source: http://www.nccco.org/recertification/faqs.html