September 11, 2024—Operators of articulating boom cranes, mini cranes, or rotating telehandlers in New York City must hold a valid limited Hoisting Machine Operator (HMO) license issued by the NYC Department of Buildings (DOB) starting November 7, 2024. This requirement applies to anyone using these machines to deliver or move materials at construction sites, whether lifting materials with forks, cradles, jibs, or similar devices.
New Classes of Limited HMO Licenses
The DOB has introduced new limited HMO licenses specifically for operators of articulating boom cranes, mini cranes, and rotating telehandlers. If you plan to operate any of these machines at a construction site, you must apply for one of these limited licenses before the deadline. Applications will open later this year on the DOB NOW: Licensing platform.
Grandfathering for Experienced Operators
Operators who have accumulated at least 1,500 hours of experience operating applicable equipment (articulating boom cranes, mini cranes, or rotating telehandlers) in New York City before November 7, 2024, may qualify for grandfathering under the new rules. To qualify:
- The application must be submitted before November 7, 2024.
- Applicants will not need to obtain additional experience under the supervision of an existing NYC HMO.
- There will be no requirement to demonstrate outrigger setups.
- Grandfathered applicants must still hold the appropriate NCCCO certification, complete a 40-hour HMO course, and pass a medical physical.
This option allows experienced operators to meet licensing requirements without the need for further supervised experience.
How to Apply for a Limited HMO License
To qualify for the limited HMO license, applicants must:
- Have at least 1,500 hours of experience operating an articulating boom crane, mini crane, or rotating telehandler in New York City between January 1, 2019, and November 6, 2024 (excluding work in industrial or commercial plants).
- Possess the appropriate NCCCO certification:
- Complete an 8-hour NYC DOB-approved HMO course within two years before applying.
- Pass a medical physical within 90 days before submitting the license application.
The DOB encourages all potential applicants to start gathering their necessary paperwork and certifications now.
Continued Operation While Applications Are Pending
Operators who submit their limited HMO license applications before November 7, 2024, will be allowed to continue operating their equipment while their application is being processed.
Supervision Requirements Starting November 7, 2024
After the deadline, anyone without a proper HMO license—or a pending application—will only be allowed to operate under the direct supervision of a licensed HMO operator in accordance with DOB regulations.
Learn More
For detailed information on the qualifications, exemptions, and application process for the new HMO licenses, visit the NYC Department of Buildings website and the Hoisting Machine Operators page.