Level I vs. Level II at a Glance
| Area | Rigger Level I | Rigger Level II |
|---|---|---|
| Independence | Rigs to a known plan under direction | Plans and executes rigging without supervision |
| Load weight | Uses given or stamped weights | Estimates weight from dimensions and material |
| Center of gravity | Recognizes it | Calculates it, including for irregular loads |
| Sling tension | Applies basic angle factors | Works out unequal leg loading and share of load |
| Hardware | Inspects and uses common gear | Selects spreader/lifting beams and specialty devices |
Who Should Pursue NCCCO Rigger Level II Certification
OSHA's construction crane rule requires a qualified rigger whenever workers are in hazardous areas during hooking, unhooking or guiding a load, and during assembly and disassembly (1926.1404 and 1926.1425). OSHA leaves it to the employer to judge who is qualified — and third-party certification is a straightforward way to show it.
Level II suits lead riggers, rigging foremen, millwrights, ironworkers, plant maintenance leads and anyone expected to make rigging decisions on their own. It's also strong preparation for lift director responsibilities.
Eligibility follows the CCO baseline: be 18 or older, comply with the substance abuse policy and the code of ethics. Whether NCCCO currently expects documented experience or Level I status first is something to confirm in the Rigger candidate handbook on nccco.org — the program assumes solid field experience either way.
How to Prepare When You Already Rig Every Day
Experienced riggers sometimes find Level II harder than expected because the exam asks you to show your reasoning, not just get the load in the air. Practice writing out each calculation: estimated weight with the material density you used, center of gravity from a reference point, and leg tension with the angle factor stated.
Spend extra time on the topics you meet least often on your jobs. A structural rigger may need to revisit equalizing systems and multi-hook turning; a plant millwright may need more work on crane-related rules and signals.
Our self-paced course provides worked examples and practice sets, plus a certificate of completion when you finish. NCCCO alone issues the Level II card after you pass its written and practical exams.
Advanced Topics to Master
Our Rigger Level II training works through each of these.
Weight estimation from drawings, volume and material density
Center of gravity for asymmetric loads and its effect on leg tension
Spreader bars, lifting beams, equalizer plates and load-sharing devices
Drifting, turning and upending loads with multiple hooks or hoists
Documenting a rigging plan with capacities, angles and contingencies
Directing a crew and coordinating with the operator and signal person
From Application to Level II Card
Confirm prerequisites
Read the current Rigger handbook and check eligibility requirements.
Prepare for the written
Practice the math until it's automatic — weights, CG and sling tension under time pressure.
Pass the practical
Expect hands-on tasks testing hardware selection, inspection and rigging execution. Complete it within 12 months of your first passed exam.
Plan renewal
The credential lasts five years; recertify during the final 12 months.