If you're bidding elevator, escalator, or related conveyance work in Nevada, you need a specific C-7 (Elevation and Conveyance) license from the Nevada State Contractors Board (NSCB). This guide walks you through the exact requirements for experience, exams, fees, and the critical surety bond, which isn't a flat fee but is set by the Board based on your business.
Do you need a contractor license to do elevator work in Nevada?
Yes, a contractor performing or supervising elevator, escalator, or related conveyance work in Nevada must hold a C-7 (Elevation and Conveyance) license issued by the Nevada State Contractors Board. This requirement applies to any business or individual bidding on or performing construction work in this classification.
What is the C-7 (Elevation and Conveyance) classification?
The C-7 classification authorizes a contractor to fabricate, erect, install, and repair elevators, escalators, dumbwaiters, moving walks and ramps, and other automated conveyance systems for people and materials. The specific scope is defined by the Board under Nevada Administrative Code (NAC) Chapter 624.
Which subclassifications fall under C-7?
The Nevada State Contractors Board has established specific subclassifications under the main C-7 license to cover specialized types of work. The full list of C-7 subclassifications is published by the NSCB per NAC 624.250; confirm the specific subclassification needed for your scope of work with the Board before applying.
What experience qualifies you for a Nevada C-7 license?
An applicant for a Nevada C-7 license must have at least four years of experience as a journeyman, foreman, supervising employee, or contractor in the elevation and conveyance classification. This experience must have been obtained within the 15 years immediately preceding the application filing date, as required by Nevada Revised Statutes (NRS) Chapter 624.
Can college or university credit substitute for field experience?
Yes, up to three of the four required years of experience can be satisfied through a degree program at an accredited college or university or an equivalent program accepted by the Board. You must provide official transcripts and documentation for the Board to review and approve the substitution.
What exams do you have to pass?
All applicants for a Nevada C-7 contractor license must pass two separate exams administered by PSI Services LLC (PSI), the state's approved testing service. The exams are offered at PSI testing centers located in Las Vegas and Reno.
Business-and-law exam
This is a standardized exam required for all contractor classifications in Nevada. It covers topics such as business management, estimating, contracts, lien laws, tax regulations, and labor laws.
C-7 trade exam
This exam specifically tests your knowledge of the elevation and conveyance trade. It covers the technical aspects of installing, maintaining, and repairing elevators, escalators, dumbwaiters, and related equipment, as well as relevant safety codes and standards. The specific number of questions, time limits, and passing scores are published by the NSCB and PSI; confirm these details when scheduling your exams.
How do you apply for a Nevada C-7 license?
Follow these steps to apply for your C-7 license with the Nevada State Contractors Board:
- Confirm Classification: Verify that the C-7 classification and any necessary subclassifications match your intended scope of work.
- Document Experience: Gather detailed proof of your four years of qualifying experience from within the last 15 years. This includes work experience forms, tax records, and potentially letters of reference. If applicable, prepare transcripts for any educational substitution.
- Submit Application: Complete and submit the official contractor license application to the NSCB with all required financial statements and supporting documents.
- Pass Exams: After the Board approves your application, you will receive instructions to register for and pass both the business-and-law and the C-7 trade exams through PSI.
- Provide Bond and Insurance: Upon passing the exams, you must secure a surety bond or provide a cash deposit in the amount set by the Board. You will also need to submit proof of workers' compensation insurance.
- License Issuance: Once all requirements are met and fees are paid, the Board will issue your C-7 contractor license.
Application fees to plan for
The Nevada State Contractors Board sets its fee schedule in NAC 624.130. Be prepared for the following costs:
- License Issuance or Renewal: $600
- Certificate of Eligibility (Issuance): $500
- Certificate of Eligibility (Renewal): $300
- Adding a New Classification: $300
- Late Renewal Filing: $150
- Duplicate License: $25
- Duplicate Identification Card: $10
By statute (NRS 624.280), the Board's fees for a given application, license, and examination are capped at $550, $900 (biennially), and $300 respectively — the current fees above fall within those caps.
What bond and insurance does Nevada require for C-7?
The Nevada State Contractors Board requires C-7 license applicants to post a surety bond or a cash deposit in an amount it fixes, which must be not less than $1,000 or more than $500,000. Additionally, proof of workers' compensation insurance is required.
How the Board sets your bond amount
The NSCB reviews your application, financial statements, experience, and professional history to determine an appropriate bond amount. Factors like the size and complexity of your planned projects, your financial standing, and any prior disciplinary history can influence the final figure.
When the bond requirement may be relieved
According to state law, after a licensee has acted in the capacity of a licensed contractor in Nevada for five consecutive years, the Board may relieve the contractor of the requirement to post a surety bond or cash deposit.
How long is a Nevada C-7 license valid, and how do you renew it?
A Nevada C-7 contractor license is valid for two years and must be renewed on a biennial cycle. The Board's current fee to renew a license is $600, which is within the statutory cap of $900 for a biennial license fee set by NRS Chapter 624.
Biennial renewal process
The NSCB will send a renewal notice before your license expiration date. The renewal process involves submitting the required form, paying the $600 renewal fee, and providing proof of an active surety bond and any required insurance.
Is continuing education required for renewal?
No state-level continuing education requirement for C-7 contractor license renewal was identified in the sources reviewed. However, it is always a best practice to stay current with adopted safety codes and industry standards.
Does Nevada offer reciprocity for out-of-state contractors?
Nevada does not offer automatic reciprocity, but NAC 624.615 allows the Board to determine if another state's or territory's licensing requirements are "substantially equivalent" to Nevada's. The Board maintains and publishes a list of such states and territories. If your license is from an approved state, you may be able to waive the trade exam and use your out-of-state experience to qualify. You will still be required to pass the Nevada business-and-law exam.
How is the C-7 contractor license different from the elevator mechanic credential?
The C-7 contractor license and the elevator mechanic credential are two distinct and separate requirements regulated by different state agencies.
The Mechanical Compliance Section pathway under NRS/NAC 455C
The Division of Industrial Relations, Mechanical Compliance Section (MCS), is responsible for the safety and inspection of elevators and the certification of elevator mechanics. This credential focuses on the individual technician's competence to perform the work safely according to adopted codes, such as ASME A17.1.
When each credential applies
- C-7 Contractor License (NSCB): Required for the business or responsible managing employee to bid on projects, enter into contracts, and manage the overall construction or installation business.
- Elevator Mechanic Certificate (MCS): Required for the individual technicians who physically install, repair, maintain, and inspect the elevator equipment.
A company must hold a C-7 license to contract for the work, and its employees performing the work must hold the appropriate mechanic certificates.