If you install, inspect, or maintain elevators in North Dakota, you need a state-issued credential—and the state does not require a licensing exam. North Dakota has a three-tier system for elevator professionals, and this guide outlines the specific requirements, fees, and renewal processes for each.
Do you need a license to do elevator work in North Dakota?
Yes, anyone performing elevator installation, maintenance, or inspection work in North Dakota must hold a state-issued credential. The requirements are established by the North Dakota Administrative Code, specifically Article 24.1-51, which governs the licensure and registration of elevator installers. All work must comply with the standards set by the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) A17.1 safety code, which North Dakota has adopted by reference in its state law.
North Dakota elevator license tiers at a glance
North Dakota offers three distinct credentials for elevator professionals, each with a defined scope of work.
Elevator inspector (mechanic)
An elevator inspector, also referred to as a mechanic, is an individual licensed to perform conveyance work under the supervision of a licensed elevator contractor or elevator contractor of record. They must adhere to all adopted state laws and rules regarding North Dakota conveyance standards.
Elevator contractor (and elevator contractor of record)
An elevator contractor is an individual or business responsible for adhering to all state laws and rules for conveyance work. To qualify, they must provide proof of liability insurance and demonstrate sufficient practical experience in the trade. An elevator contractor may only exercise their privileges for one shop or business at a time.
Elevator apprentice
An elevator apprentice is an individual registered with the state who performs conveyance work under the direct supervision of a licensed elevator inspector (mechanic) or elevator contractor. Apprentices are not permitted to work independently.
How do you qualify for each tier?
Qualification for each elevator license tier in North Dakota is based primarily on documented work experience, not on passing an exam.
Experience requirements
- Elevator Inspector (Mechanic): Applicants must have at least 8,000 hours of documented experience working as a licensed elevator mechanic. This work must be performed under the supervision of a licensed elevator contractor or a similar contractor of record.
- Elevator Contractor: An applicant for an elevator contractor license must provide proof of at least five years of practical elevator installation experience, along with any other qualifications required by the licensing authority.
- Elevator Apprentice: There is no minimum experience requirement to register as an apprentice. The credential allows an individual to gain the necessary supervised hours to eventually qualify for an elevator mechanic license.
Out-of-state experience credit
North Dakota allows applicants with prior elevator work experience from outside the state to apply that experience toward the hour requirements for the mechanic license. You must be able to verify your practical experience with the appropriate regulatory body.
How much does an elevator license cost in North Dakota?
The fee structure is set by North Dakota Administrative Code Article 24.1-51-01. Costs are divided into initial application fees, annual renewals, and other administrative fees.
Application fees
- Elevator Inspector (Mechanic): $50.00
- Elevator Contractor: $250.00
- Elevator Apprentice: Not published in the state's fee schedule alongside the mechanic and contractor fees; confirm the current apprentice registration fee with the board before applying.
Annual license/registration renewal fees
- Elevator Inspector (Mechanic): $50.00
- Elevator Contractor: $250.00
- Elevator Apprentice: Not published in the state's fee schedule alongside the mechanic and contractor fees; confirm the current apprentice renewal fee with the board.
Reinstatement, replacement, and investigative fees
- Reinstatement Fee: Expired licenses and registrations require a reinstatement fee equal to the annual renewal fee.
- Replacement ID Card: A replacement charge is imposed for a misplaced or destroyed identification card. The specific fee is published by the board; confirm the current amount before requesting a replacement.
- Investigative Fee: If an apprentice is found working without required supervision, an investigative fee will be charged. The cost is calculated at a rate of fifty dollars per hour, plus the state mileage rate as defined in North Dakota Century Code 54-06-09.
Do you need insurance to hold an elevator license in North Dakota?
Yes, elevator contractors and elevator contractors of record must show proof of liability insurance to obtain and maintain their license. The reviewed state regulations do not specify a minimum dollar amount for this liability coverage. The required insurance coverage is set by the licensing board; confirm the current minimums and certificate of insurance requirements directly with the board before applying.
How long does it take to get an elevator license in North Dakota?
The time it takes to get an elevator license in North Dakota is determined by the length of the required work experience. For an elevator mechanic, this means completing at least 8,000 hours of supervised work, which typically takes around four years of full-time employment. For an elevator contractor, the requirement is five years of practical installation experience. Since there is no exam, the primary timeline is based on acquiring and documenting this hands-on experience.
Do you have to take an elevator licensing exam in North Dakota?
No, North Dakota does not require applicants to pass an exam to obtain an elevator mechanic, contractor, or apprentice license. Licensure is based on meeting the state's experience, insurance, and application requirements. However, all work performed must adhere to the state-adopted ASME A17.1 safety code.
How do you renew an elevator license in North Dakota?
All North Dakota elevator licenses and registrations must be renewed annually, but the expiration dates differ by tier. An elevator inspector (mechanic) license expires on March thirty-first each year. An elevator contractor license expires on April thirtieth each year. No state-level continuing education requirement was identified in the sources reviewed for license renewal.
Does North Dakota have reciprocity for elevator licenses?
Formal reciprocity agreements for elevator licenses are not specified in North Dakota's state regulations. However, an applicant with prior experience outside North Dakota may verify that practical experience for credit toward the mechanic license's 8,000-hour requirement. This allows experienced professionals from other states to have their work history recognized in the application process.
Official sources & next steps
All requirements for elevator licensing are maintained by the North Dakota state government. For official forms, applications, and to verify current fees and insurance minimums, refer to the North Dakota Administrative Code and the North Dakota Century Code.