Finding an Approved Site, Step by Step
Test-site availability changes throughout the year, so always work from the official, current listing rather than an old list.
Go to the official source
Visit nccco.org and look for its test-site or practical exam search. NCCCO maintains the list of approved practical test sites, including open sites that accept candidates from outside their own company.
Filter by location and exam
Search near you, then check which practical exams each site offers using the codes in the table below. Not every site tests every crane type.
Contact the site directly
Call or email the sites that fit. They set their own schedules and fees, and they can tell you when the next practical administration is planned.
Confirm the equipment
Ask which crane model and configuration will be used so you can study the right load chart and controls before exam day.
Book and prepare
Register according to the site's instructions, then work through our practical test checklist in the days before.
Practical Exam Code Key
Test-site listings use short codes for each practical exam they offer. Here's what they mean.
| Code | Practical exam |
|---|---|
| TLL | Telescopic Boom Crane — Swing Cab |
| TSS | Telescopic Boom Crane — Fixed Cab |
| LB | Lattice Boom |
| TWR | Tower Crane |
| OVR | Overhead Crane |
| ABC | Articulating Boom Crane |
| ABL | Articulating Boom Loader |
| DDO | Digger Derrick Operator |
| STC | Service Truck Crane |
| DPD | Dedicated Pile Driver |
| FDR | Foundation Drill Rig |
| AMP | Anchor/Micropile Drill Rig |
| THO | Telehandler |
| RIG | Rigger |
| SGP | Signalperson |
Questions to Ask a Test Site Before You Book
When is the next administration for the exam code I need?
Which crane make, model and configuration will be used?
Is any practice time on the test machine available, and at what cost?
What should I bring — ID, paperwork, specific PPE?
What is the site's fee and cancellation or rescheduling policy?
Does the site need proof that I've registered with or been approved by NCCCO first?
Testing With CIC, NCCER or OECP Instead
If you're pursuing a credential from another accredited body, use that organization's own channels to find practical exam locations: CIC, NCCER or OECP. Our certifier comparison explains the differences between the four.
Wherever you test, the written exam is a separate step. Our crane course catalog has prep for each major designation, from TSS and TLL telescopic cranes to rigging and signaling.
We Don't Operate Test Sites
The Online Crane School provides online written-exam preparation only. We can't book practical exams or vouch for individual sites — always confirm details with the site and the certifying body.
Read our seat time guide →