Free MA Hoist

Regulations

2 hours

Learning Objectives

  • State the minimum age and exam passing score for a Massachusetts hoisting license
  • Identify when a hoisting license is required to operate a specialty crane
  • Explain the relationship between MGL Chapter 146 and 230 CMR 6.00
  • List the key exemptions from the hoisting license requirement

Topics Covered

  • MGL Chapter 146 §§ 53–54A — who must hold a hoisting license
  • Minimum age requirement: 18 years old
  • Exam passing score: 70% minimum
  • 60-day waiting period after a failed attempt
  • $75 non-refundable application fee per restriction class
  • License duration: 2-year cycle
  • 230 CMR 6.00 — the regulation implementing MGL Chapter 146 for hoisting machinery
  • Exemptions: agricultural operators, public utility supervised programs, certain industrial lift trucks on company property, approved apprenticeship and vocational programs
  • Application through the MA Division of Occupational Licensure, Office of Public Safety and Inspections (OPSI)

Resources

Self-Check Questions

Question 1: What is the minimum passing score on the Massachusetts hoisting engineer exam?

  1. A. 60%
  2. B. 65%
  3. C. 70%(correct)
  4. D. 75%
Show Explanation

Explanation:

The passing score is 70%. If you score below 70% you must wait 60 days before retesting, so plan your study time to pass on the first attempt.

Question 2: What is the minimum age to obtain a Massachusetts hoisting license?

  1. A. 16
  2. B. 17
  3. C. 18(correct)
  4. D. 21
Show Explanation

Explanation:

MGL Chapter 146 sets the minimum age at 18. Applicants under 18 cannot obtain a hoisting license regardless of experience or training.

Question 3: Which statement best describes the relationship between MGL Chapter 146 and 230 CMR 6.00?

  1. A. MGL Chapter 146 is federal law; 230 CMR 6.00 is state law
  2. B. MGL Chapter 146 is the statute passed by the legislature; 230 CMR 6.00 is the implementing regulation(correct)
  3. C. They are two names for the same document
  4. D. 230 CMR 6.00 replaced MGL Chapter 146
Show Explanation

Explanation:

MGL (Massachusetts General Law) is statute passed by the legislature. 230 CMR 6.00 is the regulation that implements the statute with specific technical and safety requirements for hoisting machinery.

Question 4: How long must you wait to retake the hoisting exam after a failed attempt?

  1. A. 7 days
  2. B. 30 days
  3. C. 60 days(correct)
  4. D. 90 days
Show Explanation

Explanation:

You must wait 60 days after a failed attempt. Use that time to study the areas where you scored poorly rather than rushing back unprepared.

Question 5: How long is a Massachusetts hoisting license valid before renewal is required?

  1. A. 1 year
  2. B. 2 years(correct)
  3. C. 3 years
  4. D. 5 years
Show Explanation

Explanation:

The license is valid for 2 years. Always confirm the current renewal cycle and requirements at mass.gov, as they can change.

Question 6: Which operator is EXEMPT from the Massachusetts hoisting license requirement?

  1. A. A contractor operating a loader crane on a public road project
  2. B. A farmhand operating hoisting equipment exclusively on agricultural land(correct)
  3. C. A delivery driver using a truck-mounted loader crane to unload building materials at a job site
  4. D. A rigger operating a knuckle-boom crane on a commercial construction site
Show Explanation

Explanation:

Agricultural operators working exclusively on agricultural land are explicitly exempt under MGL §53. Construction, utility, and commercial delivery work requires a license regardless of who owns the property.

Question 7: What is the non-refundable application fee for each restriction class?

  1. A. $25
  2. B. $50
  3. C. $75(correct)
  4. D. $100
Show Explanation

Explanation:

The application fee is $75 per restriction class and is non-refundable, even if you fail the exam or your application is denied.