In the scope of this study, the capability of particle image velocimetry (PIV) method to monitor cracking behavior of cement-based materials was investigated. Load-crack opening width curves for beam specimens were obtained both from conventional measurement techniques (LVDTs) and from the PIV analysis. In order to evaluate the performance of the PIV results, the curves obtained from the LVDT readings were plotted together with PIV results, and good correspondence was found. Results represented that PIV technique can be used as an alternative to conventional measurement techniques during common structural tests, especially in bending tests, owing to its lower cost and strong ability to monitor cracking behavior. Additionally, in the case of monitoring the crack openings in beam specimens, the PIV technique can be assumed as a virtual crack mouth opening displacement (CMOD) gauge, without requiring prior knowledge of crack locations or any utilization of mechanical instrumentations; this showing the superiority of the technique over conventional mechanical instruments.