Certified Excellence: Earning Your NCCCO Rigger Credential

Why NCCCO Rigging Certification Matters for Your Career

NCCCO rigging certification is a nationally accredited credential that proves you have the knowledge and skills to safely handle and move loads in construction, manufacturing, and warehousing environments. It’s recognized by federal OSHA as meeting personnel qualification requirements and is often required by employers, jurisdictions, and insurance companies.

Quick Answer: Getting Your NCCCO Rigger Certification

1. Choose your level – Rigger Level I (basic tasks) or Level II (complex loads)
2. Pass written exam – 60 questions for Level I or 40 for Level II
3. Pass practical exam – Hands-on demonstration of rigging skills
4. Complete within 12 months – Both exams must be passed within one year
5. Maintain certification – Valid for five years, then recertify

Every day on construction sites across America, loads are lifted, moved, and positioned. When rigging isn’t done right, the consequences can be catastrophic. That’s why the National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators (NCCCO) developed rigger certifications that “close the loop” with crane safety by ensuring loads are rigged properly from the start.

Since NCCCO began testing in 1996, they’ve administered over 625,000 written and practical exams to more than 170,000 crane operators and riggers nationwide. The organization is accredited by both the National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCCA) and the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) to ISO/IEC 17024 standards.

Why does this matter to you? Federal OSHA standards for cranes and derricks in construction require that all rigging personnel be “qualified.” While certification isn’t always legally mandatory, NCCCO certification provides direct, verifiable evidence of your qualification. Many jurisdictions and employers go beyond federal rules and actually require certification.

Whether you’re an iron worker, electrician, carpenter, millwright, mechanic, laborer, mason, or any other skilled tradesperson who handles loads, this certification can open doors to better job opportunities and higher pay. The certification demonstrates your commitment to safety and professionalism in an industry where those qualities can literally save lives.

Understanding the Rigger Certification Levels

The NCCCO Rigger certification program offers two distinct levels: Rigger Level I and Rigger Level II. These levels are designed to differentiate riggers based on their experience, knowledge, and the complexity of the tasks they are qualified to perform. Understanding the nuances between these two levels is crucial for choosing the right path for your career.

Both certifications are accredited by ANSI to ISO/IEC 17024, ensuring they meet rigorous international standards for personnel certification. This means that regardless of the level, your NCCCO rigging certification is a highly respected credential in the industry.

Let’s break down the differences:

Feature	Rigger Level I
Primary Function	To identify rigging components, perform inspections, and execute simple rigging activities.	To plan and perform complex rigging activities, including determining load characteristics and selecting appropriate components.
Responsibilities	– Selecting basic rigging equipment. – Inspecting basic rigging equipment. – Performing simple, repetitive rigging tasks. – Attaching and detaching loads. – Using hand signals and verbal communication. – Operating under supervision or with known load information.	– All responsibilities of Level I. – Planning and executing complex, non-routine lifts. – Determining load weight and center of gravity. – Selecting appropriate rigging components and configurations. – Supervising other riggers. – Identifying and mitigating hazards. – Performing advanced hitches and calculating sling stress.
Knowledge Focus	– Basic knots and hitches. – Inspection of slings, shackles, and other hardware. – Load capacity fundamentals. – Safety procedures. – Basic communication.	– Advanced load dynamics and calculations. – Multi-crane lifts. – Specialized rigging equipment. – Critical lift planning. – Regulatory compliance. – Independent decision-making.
Prerequisite	None (beyond general eligibility).
Primary Function	To identify rigging components, perform inspections, and execute simple rigging activities.	To plan and perform complex rigging activities, including determining load characteristics and selecting appropriate components.
Responsibilities	– Selecting basic rigging equipment. – Inspecting basic rigging equipment. – Performing simple, repetitive rigging tasks. – Attaching and detaching loads. – Using hand signals and verbal communication. – Operating under supervision or with known load information.	– All responsibilities of Level I. – Planning and executing complex, non-routine lifts. – Determining load weight and center of gravity. – Selecting appropriate rigging components and configurations. – Supervising other riggers. – Identifying and mitigating hazards. – Performing advanced hitches and calculating sling stress.
Knowledge Focus	– Basic knots and hitches. – Inspection of slings, shackles, and other hardware. – Load capacity fundamentals. – Safety procedures. – Basic communication.	– Advanced load dynamics and calculations. – Multi-crane lifts. – Specialized rigging equipment. – Critical lift planning. – Regulatory compliance. – Independent decision-making.
Prerequisite	None (beyond general eligibility).
Rigger Level II	Successfully complete the Level I exam (can be done concurrently or already hold Level I). Then pass the Level II written and practical exams within 12 months of passing the Level II written exam.

For a deeper dive into our training programs that prepare you for both Level I and Level II NCCCO rigging certification, we encourage you to explore our dedicated page: More info about Rigger Level I-II training.

Rigger Level I: The Foundation

Rigger Level I certification is where many aspiring rigging professionals begin their journey. This credential is ideal for individuals who will be performing basic, repetitive rigging tasks. Think of it as mastering the fundamentals of safe load handling.

An ideal candidate for Rigger Level I will possess a foundational understanding of common rigging techniques and equipment. Their work often involves situations where the load weight, center of gravity, rigging, and rigging configuration are either provided to them or are known through their experience and knowledge. They typically work under supervision or within clearly defined parameters. This level ensures that even for seemingly simple tasks, the rigger has a certified understanding of equipment inspection, proper attachment, and safe communication with crane operators.

Rigger Level II: The Advanced Path

For those who have gained significant experience and are ready to take on more complex challenges, Rigger Level II is the natural next step. This advanced certification is designed for riggers who demonstrate a higher level of autonomy and expertise.

A Rigger Level II is expected to exercise independent judgment and take on increased responsibility. This includes the crucial ability to plan and execute complex, non-routine lifts. They must be proficient in determining precise load weights and centers of gravity, selecting the most appropriate rigging components and configurations for challenging scenarios, and potentially supervising other riggers. They are the problem-solvers of the rigging world, identifying and mitigating hazards before they become issues.

To achieve Rigger Level II, you must first hold a Rigger Level I certification or pass the Level I exam concurrently with your Level II exams. This prerequisite ensures a solid grounding in basic rigging principles before advancing to more intricate operations. The Level II credential signals to employers that you are capable of handling the most demanding rigging jobs with confidence and precision.

What to Expect on Exam Day: A Breakdown of the Tests

Earning your NCCCO rigging certification involves successfully navigating two main components: a written examination and a practical, hands-on examination. We understand that exam day can be daunting, but with proper preparation, you’ll be ready to show what you know!

You must pass both the written and practical exams within a 12-month period to achieve your certification. This ensures that your knowledge and practical skills are current and aligned. The entire NCCCO certification program is developed according to strict psychometric standards, meaning the tests are fair, valid, reliable, and legally defensible, and accredited by ANSI to ISO/IEC 17024.

Understanding the nccco rigging certification Written Exam

The written exam is designed to assess your theoretical knowledge of rigging principles, safety standards, and equipment. For Rigger Level I, you’ll face a 60-question, multiple-choice written examination, and you’ll have 60 minutes to complete it. For Rigger Level II, the written exam consists of 40 multiple-choice questions.

The exam content is carefully crafted by industry subject matter experts to cover critical knowledge areas. These typically include:

• Scope of Rigging Activity: Understanding the overall context and requirements of a rigging job.
• Technical Knowledge: This covers everything from the characteristics of various rigging hardware (like wire rope, slings, shackles, and hoist rings) to the principles of leverage, load dynamics, and basic calculations.
• Inspection: Your ability to properly inspect rigging equipment for damage, wear, and suitability before use.
• Execution of Rigging Activity: Knowledge of safe rigging practices, communication signals, and procedures for attaching, detaching, and moving loads.

For Level II, the exam will dig deeper, adding topics like planning complex rigging activities and the advanced selection of rigging components, reflecting the increased responsibility of this certification. We recommend thoroughly studying the candidate handbook and exam outlines provided by NCCCO to familiarize yourself with all the specific topics.

Acing the nccco rigging certification Practical Exam

While the written exam tests your knowledge, the practical exam is where you get to demonstrate your hands-on skills in a controlled environment. This is your chance to prove you can walk the talk! The practical examination is typically comprised of four main tasks that progressively increase in skill level.

During the practical exam, you’ll be evaluated on your ability to:

• Perform pre-use rigging inspection: This involves identifying any defects or damage on various rigging components to ensure they are safe for use.
• Execute different rigging hitches: You’ll need to correctly apply common hitches (e.g., basket, choker, vertical) based on the load and lift requirements.
• Make proper rigging connections: Demonstrating how to correctly connect slings to loads and to the crane hook using appropriate hardware like shackles.
• Tie basic knots: Showing proficiency in essential knots used in rigging operations.

Success in the practical exam relies heavily on having actual hands-on experience and muscle memory. This is where quality training really shines, allowing you to practice these critical skills until they become second nature.

Your Step-by-Step Guide to the NCCCO Rigging Certification Process

Starting on the journey to earn your NCCCO rigging certification might seem like a lot of steps, but we’re here to guide you through each one. The process is designed to ensure that only truly qualified individuals earn this valuable credential, contributing to safer worksites across industries.

The NCCCO outlines a clear, official process for application and certification. We always recommend downloading and thoroughly reviewing the NCCCO Candidate Handbook for the Rigger program, as it contains all the official rules, policies, and procedures you’ll need to follow. This includes agreeing to comply with NCCCO’s Substance Abuse Policy and Code of Ethics, which are non-negotiable for maintaining the integrity of the certification.

Step 1: Confirm Eligibility and Meet OSHA Standards

Before you even think about cracking open a textbook, let’s make sure you meet the basic requirements. To be eligible for NCCCO rigging certification, candidates must:

• Be at least 18 years of age.
• Meet specific physical requirements (these are outlined in the candidate handbook and often involve vision, hearing, and physical capability to perform rigging tasks safely).
• Comply with the NCCCO Substance Abuse Policy.
• Comply with the NCCCO Code of Ethics.

Meeting these foundational requirements is crucial, as they underscore the commitment to safety and professionalism that NCCCO certifications represent.

Furthermore, understand how this certification aligns with OSHA standards. Federal OSHA requires riggers to be “qualified.” While “qualified” doesn’t always mean “certified” by a third party, NCCCO certification provides direct, federally recognized evidence of your qualification. In fact, many jurisdictions, including potentially some in our home state of Indiana, and employers go a step further by mandating actual certification. This makes your NCCCO rigging certification a powerful asset for compliance and career advancement.

Step 2: Prepare for Success with Training and Study

Once you’ve confirmed your eligibility, it’s time to get ready for the exams! While NCCCO itself does not provide training (to maintain its impartiality as a certifying body), they strongly encourage candidates to enroll in suitable training classes. This is where we come in!

We believe that comprehensive training is the cornerstone of success. Our experienced instructors, with over 30 years of combined expertise, use proven methods to prepare you thoroughly for both the written and practical exams. Our programs offer the hands-on experience and in-depth knowledge you’ll need to excel.

Beyond formal training, there are excellent self-study resources available. NCCCO provides detailed exam outlines and reference lists on their website (nccco.org/references). These outlines break down the specific topics covered in each exam, allowing you to focus your study efforts. Familiarizing yourself with industry standards, particularly ASME B30 standards, is also highly recommended, as these form the backbone of safe rigging practices.

Preparing for your NCCCO rigging certification isn’t just about passing a test; it’s about building a robust skill set that ensures safety on every job site.

Did you know that proper signaling is also critical for safe crane operations? You can learn more about becoming a certified Signal Person here: More info about Signal Person training. And for those aspiring to oversee entire lifting operations, explore our Lift Director training: More info about Lift Director training.

Step 3: Apply and Schedule Your Exams

With your preparation underway, the next step is to formally apply for your exams and get them scheduled. The NCCCO offers a streamlined process for this.

You’ll complete an online application, typically through the NCCCO website. During this process, you’ll select the specific rigger designation(s) (Level I, Level II, or both) you wish to pursue. You’ll also need to pay the applicable exam fees.

For the written exam, you have two main options:

• Computer-Based Testing (CBT): This is often the quicker option, allowing for more flexible scheduling at over 400 test centers nationwide. You can often get same-day results reporting. If you choose CBT, you’ll apply and pay online, receive a confirmation email within 48 hours, and then register for a specific exam date and time at a CBT location convenient to you.
• Paper/Pencil Testing (PPT): This option is typically offered at scheduled events or larger test sites. You’ll need to find a suitable PPT exam event, check availability, and then apply and pay.

Once you’ve passed your written exam, you’ll need to schedule your practical exam. This involves applying and paying for the practical exam, after which you’ll receive an Authorization Code. You then have a few options for finding a Practical Examiner or test site:

• Open Practical Test Sites: NCCCO lists open practical test sites on their website (nccco.org/practical-sites).
• CCO-Accredited Practical Examiners: You can contact an accredited Practical Examiner directly (nccco.org/pe-for-hire) to arrange a test.

On the day of your practical exam, remember to bring your Authorization Code (either printed or electronic) to provide to the Practical Examiner. Both your written and practical exams must be successfully completed within a 12-month window.

Maintaining Your Credentials and Realizing the Benefits

Earning your NCCCO rigging certification is a significant achievement, but it’s not a one-and-done deal. Maintaining your credentials and understanding the ongoing value they provide are key to a long and successful career in rigging.

Certification Validity and Recertification

Your NCCCO rigging certification is valid for a five-year period. To ensure that certified riggers maintain up-to-date knowledge and skills, NCCCO requires recertification before your credential expires.

The recertification process primarily involves passing a written recertification exam. If you are a certified Level I rigger in the final year of your certification, you have an excellent opportunity to upgrade! You can take the Rigger Level II exams in place of your Rigger Level I recertification exam. If you pass, you’ll recertify as a Level II rigger for the next five years. This pathway encourages continuous professional development and allows you to advance your career without having to take both exams separately.

It’s crucial to apply for recertification before your current certification expires. While there might be a grace period, it’s always best to plan ahead to avoid any lapse in your certified status.

The Value of Being CCO-Certified

The benefits of obtaining your NCCCO rigging certification extend far beyond simply meeting a job requirement. This credential is a powerful investment in your professional future, offering advantages for both individuals and their employers.

Here’s why being CCO-certified is invaluable:

• Improved Safety: This is perhaps the most critical benefit. Certified riggers possess the knowledge and skills to perform rigging operations safely, significantly reducing the risk of accidents, injuries, and property damage on the job site. Our focus at Train For The Crane is always on safety first, and certification is a testament to that commitment.
• Increased Job Opportunities: Many employers in Indiana and across the country specifically seek out CCO-certified riggers because of OSHA compliance requirements and their commitment to safety. Your certification makes you a highly desirable candidate in a competitive job market.
• Higher Earning Potential: With specialized skills and certified competence, riggers often command better wages. Your certification can open doors to more complex, higher-paying projects.
• Verified Skills: The NCCCO certification provides an independent, third-party verification of your qualifications, giving employers confidence in your abilities.
• Reduced Liability: For employers, hiring CCO-certified personnel helps demonstrate due diligence and can significantly reduce liability in the event of an accident.
• OSHA Compliance: As mentioned, CCO certification is recognized by federal OSHA as meeting personnel qualification requirements, helping companies stay compliant with regulations.
• Professional Recognition: Holding a nationally recognized certification lifts your professional standing within the industry.

By investing in your NCCCO rigging certification, you’re not just getting a piece of paper; you’re gaining the confidence, competence, and credibility that will propel your career forward.

If you’re also interested in becoming a certified mobile crane operator, we offer comprehensive training programs. Learn more about our Mobile Crane 1 training here: More info about Mobile Crane 1 training.

Frequently Asked Questions about NCCCO Rigger Certification

We often get asked common questions about the NCCCO rigging certification process. Here are some of the most frequent inquiries and our expert answers.

Is training mandatory to take the NCCCO exams?

No, NCCCO itself does not mandate training. As a third-party certification body, NCCCO remains independent by not offering training programs. However, they (and we!) strongly encourage candidates to enroll in suitable training classes before applying for exams. Our experience shows that candidates who undergo professional training have a significantly higher chance of success on both the written and practical examinations. Training provides the structured learning, hands-on practice, and expert guidance that self-study alone often cannot.

What is the difference between being a “qualified” and a “certified” rigger under OSHA?

This is a critical distinction! Under federal OSHA standards for cranes and derricks in construction, all rigging personnel must be “qualified.” A “qualified rigger” is defined as a person who, by possession of a recognized degree, certificate, or professional standing, or who by extensive knowledge, training, and experience, has successfully demonstrated the ability to solve or resolve problems relating to rigging.

While “certified” riggers are by definition “qualified,” not all “qualified” riggers are “certified.” NCCCO rigging certification provides direct, verifiable evidence that you meet or exceed the “qualified” definition through a standardized, third-party assessment process. This makes certification a robust and widely accepted way to demonstrate qualification, and in many jurisdictions or for many employers, it’s the preferred or even required method.

How long do I have to pass both the written and practical exams?

You must successfully pass both the applicable written exam(s) and the applicable practical (hands-on) exam(s) within a 12-month period. This 12-month window begins from the date you pass your first exam (either written or practical). If you don’t complete both components within this timeframe, you may need to retake the exam you passed first. It’s always best to plan your study and testing schedule to ensure you complete both parts well within this window.

Conclusion: Lift Your Career with Certified Rigging Skills

Earning your NCCCO rigging certification is more than just obtaining a credential; it’s a commitment to excellence, safety, and continuous professional growth in a demanding industry. From understanding the foundational responsibilities of a Rigger Level I to mastering the complex planning required for a Rigger Level II, this certification demonstrates your capability to handle critical tasks with precision and care.

We’ve seen how certified riggers contribute to safer worksites, prevent costly accidents, and improve efficiency in construction, manufacturing, and warehousing. This certification not only validates your skills but also opens doors to increased job opportunities and higher earning potential, making you an invaluable asset to any team.

At Train For The Crane, we are dedicated to providing the highest quality training to prepare you for this important step in your career. Our experienced instructors and proven methods are designed to equip you with the knowledge and practical skills needed to pass your NCCCO exams with confidence. We believe that investing in your certification is investing in a safer, more prosperous future.

Are you ready to lift your career and become a certified rigging professional? Let us help you achieve certified excellence. Get started with our Rigger Level I & II training program today!