coteca.co.uk > Blog > Choosing Crane Operator Training: Questions to Ask First
Booking a crane operator course is a big step, and rarely a cheap one. Pick the wrong crane category or the wrong card scheme and you can finish the training only to be turned away at the site gate. A few straight questions before you pay will tell you whether a course will actually get you working.
This guide covers the questions we hear most from people looking at crane training, from which machine to train on to what happens when your first card runs out.
Put these six questions to any training provider, us included. A good centre will answer each one clearly, and in writing if you ask.
Crane training is split by machine, and each category is its own course and card. The common ones are mobile cranes (CPCS A60), tower cranes (A04), crawler cranes (A02) and compact cranes (A66). Ask the employer or agency which category the job needs before you book.
Both schemes are recognised, and NPORS cards carrying the CSCS logo are accepted on many sites. Some large contractors still ask for CPCS by name. Check with the site or principal contractor first, so the card you earn is the one they want to see.
Novices need the full training course before the tests. If you already have real seat time on the machine, you may be able to go straight to the theory and practical tests, which costs less and takes less time. Be honest about your experience, because the practical test will show it.
You need a CITB Operatives test pass from the last two years to apply for a CPCS card, or an NPORS card with the CSCS logo. Book it early so it does not hold up your card once the training is done.
Ask whether the quote covers training, the theory test, the practical test, the card application and any retest. A low headline price can grow quickly if the tests or the card are charged separately.
Ask how many trainees share each machine and how many hours of hands-on time you get. Confident operators come from seat time, not classroom slides. If you will direct lifts rather than drive, look at slinger signaller (A40) or crane supervisor (A62) training instead.
Your first crane card will usually be a red Trained Operator card, valid for two years. To move up to the blue Competent Operator card, valid for five years, you need to complete a relevant NVQ while your red card is still in date. If it expires first, you may have to go back to the start.
Plan it in this order:
Not sure which category or scheme you need? Tell us the machine, your experience and where you want to train, and we will point you to the right crane operator course and the next available dates. You can browse our CPCS training courses and NPORS courses, or call us on 0208 099 4324.
We will give you best suited CSCS product. Apply Here
By filling this form, I agree to the terms and conditions
