The MA Hoisting License exam is a multiple-choice test comprised of roughly 40 questions. You must score a 70% or better on the exam to pass, and will see a range of questions from safety on equipment to questions about state law. Many of the questions are very tricky, and ask detailed questions about state law, so even the most experienced operators find many of these exam questions challenging because they are not familiar with Massachusetts law.
Applying for the Exam
In order to be scheduled for the Mass. hoisting license test, you must submit an application to the state. Mass Hoisting Training offers an optional service to assist you with submitting your application through our state-of-the-art online portal. This is especially helpful because many people fill out their application incorrectly, which results in delays. With Mass Hoisting, your application will be checked for errors before submitting. This service is offered for a $5 processing fee.
The state charges $75 per exam you take. So for example, if you apply to take two exams (i.e. 1C & 2A) it would be a total of $150 for state fees. You are able to take multiple exams on the same day, so test materials for all of the grades you applied for will be on your exam table on the day of your exam.
Exam Schedule
In order to schedule your state exam, generally, you must submit your paperwork in the current month in order to receive your exam in the following month. Depending on the time of year, it may take a little longer. The state will schedule your exam date for you, and notify you via USPS mail with a “Notice to Appear”. This notice is generally sent about two weeks prior to your exam and will provide you with your exam time, date and location.
You can complete your application online through Mass.gov, or, Mass Hoisting Training, Inc. will take care of all your paperwork.
You must possess the following to submit an application:
- A U.S. state, U.S. territory, or federal government issued identification driver’s license or, for apprentices only, a driver’s license learner’s permit.
- DOT Medical card (if you do not possess a DOT, you can obtain one at the class)
Mass Hoisting Training, Inc. will provide you with these materials the day of the class.
Depending on which exam(s) you take, you will see between 30 - 40 multiple choice questions. You must score a 70% or above to pass.
By statute, M.G.L. c. 146, § 57, a person may not apply for a hoisting license examination more than once every 60 days.
As a general rule, you must submit your application in the current month in order to take the exam the following month. So if you submit your application in September, your exam typically will take place the end of October. The state will automatically select your exam date and location.
Update: The state has now been using a cut-off date around the middle of each month. So it is best to submit your application as early in the month as possible.
The state exam is proctored by the state, in-person. There are several locations across the state where the exam is offered. To receive an exam, you must submit an application to the state. The state will then process your application, and sign you up to take an exam at the location closest to where you reside. The state picks your exam date; you are not able to schedule your specific exam date.
The exam itself is proctored by the state, in-person. Exam prep courses are available to take online.