How NCCER Structures Its Rigging Credentials
NCCER organizes rigging into progressive levels in its curriculum — commonly described as basic, intermediate and advanced. Our site's "Level 1" corresponds to that first, basic tier. NCCER names and packages its credentials in its own way and updates them periodically, so confirm the current title and requirements on nccer.org.
Assessment follows NCCER's usual pattern: a written assessment of rigging knowledge and a performance verification in which a qualified evaluator watches you inspect gear, select rigging and attach a load. Both are delivered through NCCER Accredited Training Sponsors or assessment centers, and results go into the NCCER Registry.
OSHA's construction crane rule requires a qualified rigger in specific situations (1926.1404 and 1926.1425) but leaves the determination to the employer. A documented NCCER credential is solid evidence of qualification; your employer still decides whether you're qualified for its particular rigging tasks.
NCCER Rigger Level 1 vs. NCCCO Rigger Level I
| NCCER | NCCCO | |
|---|---|---|
| Delivery | Through training sponsors and assessment centers | NCCCO-run written testing and practical sites |
| Hands-on piece | Performance verification | Practical exam |
| Proof | Registry transcript and credential | CCO wallet card |
| Often chosen by | Contractors with NCCER craft training programs | Owners and GCs that specify CCO credentials |
Why Contractors Choose the NCCER Rigging Route
Companies that already deliver NCCER craft training often prefer to keep rigging in the same system. Instructors, evaluators and record keeping are already in place, and a worker’s rigging credential sits in the same Registry transcript as their other craft modules.
For the individual, the appeal is that training and assessment can happen close to work, sometimes at the employer’s own facility. The trade-off is that availability depends on finding an active sponsor or assessment center near you.
Whichever route you take, our self-paced course is independent preparation that ends with a certificate of completion. It gives you the knowledge base for the written assessment; the hands-on performance verification still needs real practice with slings and hardware.
Topics to Know Before Your Assessment
Our Rigger Level 1 training follows the same sequence.
Rigging roles and the physics of a suspended load
Vertical, choker and basket hitches — when each applies
Wire rope, synthetic and chain slings; shackles, eyebolts and hooks
Sling angle stress and simple tension calculations
Inspection and removal criteria for slings and hardware
Taglines, load control and keeping clear of the fall zone
Earning the NCCER Basic Rigging Credential
Connect with a sponsor
Your employer may already be one; otherwise NCCER can direct you to an assessment center.
Study the knowledge base
Work through our online modules and practice questions.
Pass the written assessment
Taken through your sponsor or assessment center.
Complete the performance verification
Show an evaluator you can inspect, select and rig correctly.