There are several different Massachusetts Hoisting License types that you’ll need to have a good understanding of if you’re interested in operating heavy machinery in the state.
First off, there are four main Mass. hoisting license classifications: Class 1, Class 2, Class 3, and Class 4.
Mass. Hoisting License Classifications:
Class 1: Hoisting
Class 2: Excavating
Class 3: Electric & Pneumatic
Class 4: Specialty
These classes are then further broken down into sub-classification codes or “grades” as listed below.
For Classes 1 and 2, the license grade ending in “A” covers all equipment in that category, and then the subsequent codes cover less and less equipment as you go. For example, the 1A license covers all equipment that is included in 1A & 1B & 1C & 1D, the 1B license covers all equipment that is included in 1B & 1C & 1D, the 1C license covers all equipment in 1C & 1D, and the 1D license only covers what is listed for 1D only.
Class 1 Hoisting
1A = All hoisting equipment (except electric and air powered hoisting equipment) including clutch machines, derricks, guy derricks, stiff legs, Chicago booms, gin poles, lattice booms.
1B = Equipment with telescoping booms with or without wire ropes.
1C = Equipment hydraulic telescoping booms without wire ropes and forklifts.
1D = General industrial warehouse Fork Lift equipment primarily used in indoor facilities.
Class 2 Excavating
2A = Crawler and rubber-tired excavators, backhoes and loaders.
2B = Backhoes and front-end loaders.
2C = Front-end loaders.
2D = Compact Hoisting Machinery with a gross vehicle weight not exceeding 10,000 pounds, excluding Class 1, Class 3, and Class 4 Hoisting Machinery.
Class 3 Electric & Pneumatic
3A = Electric and Pneumatic hoisting equipment.
Class 4 Specialty
4B = Drill Rigs
4C = Pipeline Side booms
4D = Concrete Pumps
4E = Catch Basin Cleaners
4F = Sign-Hangers
4G = Specialty Side Boom Mowers
Keep in mind that the Class 4 licenses differ from Class 1-2 in that no specialty equipment is covered in more than one license grade. Applicants must hold a valid license for each type of equipment they intend to operate (for example, licensee holds both a 4C and a 4G if they operate pipeline side booms and specialty side boom mowers).
How do I get a hoisting license in Massachusetts?
Now that you have an idea of what type(s) of hoisting license you’d like to obtain, your next step is to pass the MA hoisting license exam. You’ll need to take an exam for each license grade you’re applying for (for example, 2A and 1C). Each exam has approximately 40 multiple choice questions, and you must score a 70% or better to pass.
Because the exam asks numerous detailed questions on state law, even the most experienced operators benefit from taking a preparatory class for the Mass. hoisting license test. Our one-of-a-kind training class is led by experienced instructors and covers state law, equipment-specific information, interactive exercises, sample exam questions, assistance with application submission, and optional DOT physical exams (a valid DOT exam is required with your state hoisting application).
