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, 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.
2025 Hoisting Exam Schedule and Results
2026 Hoisting Exam Schedule and Results
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)
Most people choose to take an exam prep course because all of the information comes from MA state law and OSHA. These are particularly hard to navigate, and a hoisting prep course will help you focus on what information is covered on the exam. That said, a prep course is not a requirement for taking the exam.
The test will be about 30 – 40 multiple choice questions, and 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.
Obtaining a hoisting license is somewhat of a lengthy process. When you submit an application, it can take 6 - 8 weeks before you receive an exam date. Once you pass the exam, your digital license is available to download later that day.