Chicago 304 - Crane Operator Written Exam/Renewal Class I & II

As of June 1, 2022, all new applications and renewals for crane operator licenses must be submitted through the City of Chicago’s Inspections, Permits, and Licensing web portal.

An overview of the crane operator license is available on the City of Chicago Department of Buildings web site.

New Applicants

To apply to take the written examination, please create an online account and apply for a license.

Note: when creating an online account, make sure the name and address you use matches the information on the government-issued photo ID that you will show when you arrive for the written examination.

The written examination is given on announced dates (see below). After passing the written examination, you will also need to schedule and pass a practical examination before you can receive a license.

All fees must be paid through the web portal.

In order to be approved for the exam date for which they registered, candidates MUST PAY FOR THE EXAM BY 12:00pm on the deadline date.
Candidates who have not paid for the exam by 12:00pm on the deadline date will be automatically moved to the next examination date.

Renewing An Existing License

If you have an existing license, please create an online account and claim your license.

To access your renewal information, please enter: BCRI   plus the numeric portion only of your current license

All renewals must be submitted and paid for through the web portal. Renewals will not be accepted by mail or over the phone.

Study Materials and Requirements
Exam Information:
Exam Exam Date Deadline City Fees
Written Jan 15, 2025 Dec 04, 2024 Chicago, IL $150.00
Written Mar 12, 2025 Feb 12, 2025 Chicago, IL $150.00
Written May 07, 2025 Apr 09, 2025 Chicago, IL $150.00
Written Jul 09, 2025 Jun 11, 2025 Chicago, IL $150.00
Written Sep 10, 2025 Aug 13, 2025 Chicago, IL $150.00
Written Nov 12, 2025 Oct 15, 2025 Chicago, IL $150.00
Contact Information
Olivia Porras
708-354-9911   Ext: 103