CCO certification exams to be delivered by computer

The National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators (NCCCO) has announced plans to begin offering its written examinations via computer.

Initial roll-out of the computer-based testing (CBT) program will focus on mobile crane certification. CBT will be available first in California, explained NCCCO's Executive Director Graham Brent, and then spread to other states as demand dictates. Both the full initial mobile crane core and specialty exams will be offered, along with their corresponding recertification exams, Brent added.

“NCCCO has carefully weighed the pros and cons of CBT since the late 1990s,” said Brent. “Frankly, although it's ‘low-tech', our basic paper-and-pencil model has worked well for us.” CBT can offer significant advantages, however, particularly in ease of scheduling and scoring. “Candidates will leave the testing room with their score report,” said Brent.

NCCCO's CBT exams will be available through test sites operated by LaserGrade, a Vancouver, WA based specialist in nationwide computer delivery of online assessments. Paper-and-pencil exams will continue to be offered through International Assessment Institute (IAI), Clearwater, FL.