Trades License Verification
How to Verify an Elevator Mechanic or Inspector License
Elevator mechanics install, maintain, and repair elevators, escalators, and lifts. Elevator inspectors independently certify equipment safety. Both roles require state licensing in most jurisdictions. Here is how to verify both types of credentials.
Quick answer
Elevator mechanic licenses are state-issued through the state elevator safety program — typically within the Department of Labor or a dedicated elevator safety board. Verify through the state's online license lookup. For elevator inspectors, verify the QEI (Qualified Elevator Inspector) certification through the National Association of Elevator Safety Authorities (NAESA) at naesai.org in addition to the state license.
Elevator mechanic licensing
Elevator mechanics (also called elevator constructors or elevator technicians) are licensed by state elevator safety programs. Most states require:
- Completion of a NEIEP (National Elevator Industry Educational Program) apprenticeship or equivalent training
- Passing a state licensing examination covering ASME A17.1/CSA B44 Safety Code for Elevators and Escalators
- Periodic license renewal with continuing education
IUEC (International Union of Elevator Constructors) apprenticeships are the dominant training pathway. Apprenticeship completion through the IUEC/NEIEP does not itself constitute a state license — state licensure must be obtained separately.
State elevator mechanic license lookups
State elevator safety programs (selected)
- California: Cal/OSHA Elevator, Ride, and Tramway Unit — dir.ca.gov/dosh/elevator; online license lookup
- New York: NYC Dept. of Buildings (NYC) or NY Dept. of Labor (upstate) — license lookup at nyc.gov/buildings or labor.ny.gov
- Texas: Texas Dept. of Insurance, Elevator Safety Program — tdi.texas.gov/elevator
- Florida: FL Dept. of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) — myfloridalicense.com; Elevator Certificate of Competency
- Illinois: City of Chicago and IDOL (Illinois Dept. of Labor) issue separate elevator mechanic licenses depending on jurisdiction
- All states: NAESA maintains a directory of state elevator safety authorities at naesai.org
Local jurisdiction licensing
Some major cities (Chicago, New York City, Philadelphia) issue elevator mechanic licenses at the city level rather than the state level, or in addition to the state license. Confirm which licensing authority governs the specific work location.
Elevator inspector credentials: QEI
Elevator inspectors who perform independent safety inspections and certifications are held to a different credential standard from mechanics. The primary national credential for elevator inspectors is:
| Credential | Body | Scope |
|---|---|---|
| QEI (Qualified Elevator Inspector) | NAESA International | Inspectors who perform periodic safety inspections of elevators, escalators, and related equipment per ASME A17.1 |
To verify a QEI certification:
- Go to naesai.org
- Use the QEI registry or credential verification tool
- Search by inspector name or QEI number
- Confirm the QEI certification is current and not expired
ASME A17.1 code and certification relevance
Elevator safety in the U.S. is governed by the ASME A17.1/CSA B44 Safety Code for Elevators and Escalators, which is adopted by most states and jurisdictions. Inspector and mechanic licensing exams are based on this code. Confirm that license examinations and ongoing education are current with the adopted code edition in the applicable jurisdiction.
Red flags
- No state elevator mechanic license for the state or city where work will be performed
- State license expired — renewal periods vary by state (typically 1–3 years)
- Inspector working as a QEI without current NAESA QEI certification
- NEIEP apprenticeship completion presented in place of a state license — these are separate credentials
- City-level license missing when work is in Chicago, NYC, or another city with separate licensing requirements
Verification checklist
- 1. Identify the state and city where elevator work will be performed
- 2. Verify the state (and city, if applicable) elevator mechanic license through the relevant licensing authority
- 3. Confirm the license is current and not expired
- 4. For inspector roles: verify QEI certification at naesai.org — confirm Active status and expiration
- 5. Review any disciplinary actions or license restrictions on the state license record
Verify elevator trades program accreditation
Elevator constructors complete apprenticeship programs through NEIEP, accredited through IUEC. Use VerifyED to confirm whether a vocational or technical program related to the building trades is properly accredited.
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