Mobile Crane Operator Certification Exam

Mobile Crane Operator Certification Exam Practice Questions And Correct Answers (Verified Answers) Plus Rationales 2026 Q&A | Instant Download Pdf

• What is the primary purpose of a crane’s load chart?
• To determine the crane’s fuel efficiency
• To calculate travel speed
• To determine lifting capacity under specific conditions
• To schedule maintenance

Rationale: The load chart provides information about the crane’s

lifting capacities at various boom lengths, angles, and configurations.

• When inspecting a crane before operation, which of the following is

most critical?

• Checking the paint condition
• Testing horn functionality 1 / 4

• Inspecting wire ropes and rigging
• Cleaning the cab windows

Rationale: Wire ropes and rigging are critical safety components that

must be inspected for wear, fraying, or damage before operation.

• What does the term “outrigger” refer to on a mobile crane?
• A counterweight system
• Extendable supports used to stabilize the crane
• The main boom
• The operator’s seat

Rationale: Outriggers extend from the crane to increase stability and

prevent tipping during lifts.

• What is the primary function of a crane’s counterweight?
• To speed up lifting
• To balance the crane and prevent tipping
• To lower fuel consumption
• To extend boom length

Rationale: Counterweights offset the load being lifted and maintain

the crane’s stability.

• When lifting a load near its maximum rated capacity, the operator

should:

• Lift at maximum speed
• Use a tag line and move slowly
• Swing the load quickly to save time 2 / 4

• Ignore wind conditions

Rationale: Slow and controlled lifting with tag lines helps maintain

stability and control when lifting near maximum capacity.

• What is the purpose of a load moment indicator (LMI)?
• To measure engine RPM
• To control crane speed
• To alert the operator if the crane is approaching its lifting limits
• To indicate fuel levels

Rationale: An LMI helps prevent overloading by providing real-time

feedback on load weight and crane configuration.

• Which of the following conditions is most likely to cause a crane tip-

over?

• Low engine oil
• Wet brakes
• Lifting a load beyond the rated capacity
• Poor cab visibility

Rationale: Exceeding rated capacity can destabilize the crane and

lead to a tip-over.

8. Before making a lift, the operator should:

• Check only the load
• Check only the crane’s tires
• Perform a site inspection and review the lift plan
• Start lifting immediately to save time 3 / 4

Rationale: Site inspection and reviewing the lift plan ensures hazards

are identified and mitigated.

• What is the maximum allowable slope for a mobile crane on

outriggers?

• 5 degrees
• 10 degrees
• 15 degrees
• 0 degrees (level ground is required)

Rationale: Mobile cranes must be set up on level ground when using

outriggers to maintain stability.

• Which type of load line attachment is safest for hoisting a load?
• Knots in the rope
• Proper rigging hardware such as shackles or hooks
• Taped rope ends
• Twisted slings

Rationale: Using proper rigging hardware ensures secure attachment

and prevents failure.

11. When lifting in windy conditions, the operator should:

• Increase speed to finish quickly
• Ignore wind if the load is light
• Follow the crane manufacturer’s wind speed guidelines
• Rely solely on tag lines
• / 4