WSQ Operate Lorry Crane course at THT Academy

11 Oct 2026

Do Lorry Crane Operators Need a Licence in Singapore? What MOM Requires

Short answer: Yes. Since 1 September 2013, MOM has required all lorry crane operators in Singapore to be certified under the lorry crane operator course, now called WSQ Operate Lorry Crane. Operators with at least 3 years of lorry crane experience can take the tests without attending the full course, through the Assessment Only Pathway.

What MOM requires

MOM lists WSQ Operate Lorry Crane under regulation 5(4) of the WSH (Operation of Cranes) Regulations 2011, for employees who operate a lorry loader. MOM’s circulars state that with effect from 1 September 2013, all lorry crane operators have to be certified under this training course.

A lorry crane (also called a lorry loader) is different from a mobile crane or tower crane. MOM’s registered crane operator scheme is for operators of mobile cranes (other than lorry loaders) and tower cranes. For lorry crane operators, the MOM requirement is the lorry crane course certification.

Two routes to certification

New operators: attend the full WSQ Operate Lorry Crane course and pass the written and practical tests.
Experienced operators: MOM’s 2012 circular states that operators with at least 3 years of lorry crane experience, who can show proof of their competency or experience, can take the competency test directly. At THT Academy this is the WSQ Operate Lorry Crane (Experienced) Assessment Only Pathway.

On both routes, the written test must be passed before the practical test. MOM’s circular states that operators who fail the competency test on the experienced route will need to attend the full course.

Medical examinations

MOM states that lorry crane operators are not required to go for mandatory medical examinations under the WSH (Operation of Cranes) Regulations, but strongly encourages periodic medical checks. MOM also states that the Commissioner for WSH may ask any crane operator, including lorry crane operators, for a medical certificate.

The courses at THT Academy

WSQ Operate Lorry Crane: 2 days (18 hours), including test fees. Taught in English and Mandarin.
Assessment Only Pathway: a 1-hour written test and a 1-hour practical test, in a morning or afternoon session. Attach your certificate of training from a manufacturer or training provider, or an employer’s letter confirming at least 3 years of relevant lorry crane experience, when you apply. A free 2-hour tutorial is available to prepare for the written test.

English classes on the full course are eligible for SWDA Course Fee Funding and SkillsFuture Credit for eligible learners. Learners who pass the full course receive a WSQ Statement of Attainment. Both courses run at THT Academy, Woodlands Spectrum 1, 2 Woodlands Sector 1, #01-03, Singapore 738068. Each course page lists its fees and class dates. Questions? Contact us at sales@thtc.com.sg or 6269 5269.

Ready to sign up? See class dates:

Lorry Crane Course Assessment Only Pathway