New Mexico requires a state-level crane operator license. The licensing authority is State Dept of Labor / OSHA. The median salary is $54,882 per year.
Last updated 2026-05-08
New Mexico requires a crane operator to hold a state license. Operate cranes and hoisting equipment to lift, move, and position materials on construction sites. Licensing is administered by the State Dept of Labor / OSHA.
| Minimum Age | 18 years old |
| Education | NCCCO certification + practical experience |
| Experience Details | NCCCO certification + practical experience |
New Mexico requires passing the New Mexico NCCCO Crane Operator Certification with a minimum score of 70%. The application fee is $200.
| Exam Name | New Mexico NCCCO Crane Operator Certification |
| Passing Score | 70% |
| Code Edition | NCCCO Crane Operator Certification |
| Application Fee | $200 |
Getting licensed as a crane operator in New Mexico takes 24 months on the typical path. Here are the steps.
The total cost includes an exam application fee of $200 and renewal fees of $200 every 2 years. Continuing education of 8 hours is required per renewal cycle.
| Fee | Amount |
|---|---|
| Exam Application | $200 |
| License Renewal | $200 every 2 years |
| Continuing Education | 8 hours |
Crane Operators in New Mexico earn a median salary of $54,882, which is less than the national average. Data from BLS OEWS May 2024.
| Mean (average) | — / year |
| Entry level (10th pct) | — |
| Top earners (90th pct) | — |
| Total employed | — in New Mexico |
| National average | $60,310 |
Yes — New Mexico requires a state-level crane operator license. Operate cranes and hoisting equipment to lift, move, and position materials on construction sites.
The required exam is the New Mexico NCCCO Crane Operator Certification. You need a score of 70% to pass. The exam fee is $200.
The median annual salary for crane operators in New Mexico is $54,882. The national median is $60,310.
New Mexico requires 8 hours of continuing education for license renewal every 2 years.
The fastest path takes approximately 6 months. The typical path takes 24 months including experience requirements.