Montana renewal guide
Crane/Hoisting Operator License (First/Second Class)
If this license is up for renewal, this page gives you the fee, the timeline, and the items that usually hold the filing up.
Start here
What matters before you file.
Check the fee, the renewal window, and the documents or insurance records that can slow approval down.
Issuing authority
Renewal period
Every 12 months
Renewal fee
$150.00
Bond requirement
No
Insurance requirement
No
Before you renew
Get the filing straight.
- 1
File with the board
File through Montana Crane/Hoisting Operator Program (DLI) and pay the $150.00 renewal fee once the supporting proof is ready.
Renew online - 2
Leave room for processing
Typical processing time is 21 days, so do not wait until the last minute.
Detailed notes
The fine print is here.
Montana Crane/Hoisting Operator License — First and Second Class
The Montana Crane/Hoisting Operator Program, under the Department of Labor & Industry, issues operator licenses for crane and hoisting equipment operators.
License Classes
First Class Crane Operator
- Authorized to operate all crane classes and hoists
- Application Fee: $100 (by examination) or $80 (by national certification)
Second Class Crane Operator
- Authorized to operate cranes with capacity 6–17.5 tons
- Application Fee: $100 (by examination) or $80 (by national certification)
Requirements
- Must be 18 years of age or older
- Minimum 1 year of experience operating equipment in the applicable class
- Must pass the written examination with a score of 75% or higher
- Alternative pathway: provide current national certification recognized by the Board
Renewal Process
- Renewal Period: Annual (license expires one year after date of issuance)
- Renewal Fee: $150 (First and Second Class)
- Renew online through the DLI licensing portal
Consequences of Operating Without a License
Operating a crane or hoisting equipment without a valid license is a violation of Montana law subject to penalties under Title 37 of the Montana Code Annotated.
*Disclaimer: This information is provided for general reference only and does not constitute legal advice. Always verify current requirements directly with the Montana Crane/Hoisting Operator Program.*
Official links
Check the board or agency directly.
Required documents
- Examination Results
- proof_of_experience
Source notes
Montana DLI Crane/Hoisting Operator Program . Verified May 2026. https://boards.bsd.dli.mt.gov/crane-hoisting-operator-program/license-information/
Rules move. Check Montana Crane/Hoisting Operator Program (DLI) again before you pay, renew, or schedule work around this requirement.
Some details could not be fully confirmed from public sources. Double-check the fee, timing, and supporting requirements with Montana Crane/Hoisting Operator Program (DLI).
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