Licensing Elevator Mechanics
Under state law, L&I issues elevator mechanic licenses in 9 different categories. These range from a general license that certifies a mechanic for any kind of work on any type of conveyance, to limited licenses that allow the mechanic to work on specific types of equipment and/or limits the timeframe in which they can do the work.
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General elevator mechanics
A general elevator mechanic (Category 01) is qualified to work on all types of conveyances. Applicants must meet one of these requirements:
- At least 3 years or 5,400 hours of verified work experience in construction, installation, maintenance, service, or repair of elevators or other conveyances, and:
- Complete 432 hours of qualifying education.
- Pass a nationally recognized elevator mechanic's exam or the state elevator mechanic license exam.
- Complete the National Elevator Industry Educational Program or equivalent, and pass the national elevator mechanic exam.
- Complete a registered apprenticeship program.
Specialty elevator mechanics
Specialty elevator mechanics are qualified to work only on specified types of conveyances. Education and experience requirements vary for each category.
- Category 02: Commercial and Residential
- Category 03: Industrial Sites and Grain Terminals
- Category 04: Temporary and Special Purpose Conveyances
- Category 05: Material Lifts
- Category 06: Limited Residential
- Category 07: Residential Inclined Elevators
- Category 08: Employees of Public Agencies
Temporary elevator mechanic license
A temporary elevator mechanic license (Category 09) is available for individuals who have completed 75% of the education and experience requirements in their area of specialty. These licenses are typically issued to:
- Elevator trainees or apprentices enrolled in a qualifying program.
- Qualified, out-of-state, licensed mechanics working temporarily in Washington.
- Qualified mechanics who are waiting on their permanent credentials to be approved by L&I.
These licenses may be restricted to a specific conveyance or a geographical area. To get a temporary license, a licensed elevator contractor must certify the licensee’s qualifications and competency.
Temporary Elevator Mechanic's licenses (Category 9) are valid for 1 year and may be renewed.
Emergency elevator mechanic license
An emergency elevator mechanic license (Category 10) is available only during a declared state of emergency. Elevator contractors may use qualified elevator mechanic who have an acceptable combination of documented experience and education to perform elevator work without direct and immediate supervision with this license. This license is valid for 30 days.