Ohio Department of Commerce Highlights Licensed Elevator Workforce, Need for Qualified Professionals

COLUMBUS, Ohio - Every elevator ride in Ohio relies on an unseen workforce - highly trained mechanics and contractors whose expertise keeps millions of people moving safely each day. As Ohio's building infrastructure expands and becomes increasingly complex, the demand for licensed individuals who install, service, and maintain elevator conveyances remain strong.

As Ohio prepares for further growth in both elevator inspections and the number of licensed inspectors needed to perform them, the Ohio Department of Commerce Division of Industrial Compliance is spotlighting recent licensing trends to underscore why qualified professionals are essential in this safety-critical field.

Each year, Qualified Elevator Inspector (QEI)-certified inspectors with DIC's Elevator Section conduct approximately 50,000 inspections across the state, not including Cleveland or Cincinnati since those city departments conduct their own inspections. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, elevator and escalator installers and repairer positions are projected to increase by 5% between 2024 and 2034, which is 2% above the average for all occupations.

As more individuals enter this workforce, it's important that they take steps to comply with recent changes to Ohio licensure law. As stated in House Bill 107, as of Nov. 1, 2025, all individuals who install, service, or maintain elevators and other conveyances must obtain their legacy state license. This license serves as a bridge for existing elevator workers to become licensed without immediately meeting all of the new training, exam or apprenticeship requirements

In addition, elevator mechanics must complete eight hours of continuing education within a year of their renewal date. This helps to ensure they remain current with evolving technology and safety protocols. Prior to HB107, these requirements only applied to elevator inspectors.

To date, Ohio has issued 45 elevator contractor licenses as well as 750 licenses for elevator mechanics. Of the approximately 750 elevator mechanic licenses issued to date, 139 have been through the Legacy pathway and 598 mechanics qualified through formal training pathways, meaning they completed recognized exams or registered apprenticeship programs. An additional eight mechanics earned their licenses by passing the Division's own Elevator Mechanic Exam, and five were licensed through reciprocity, which allows individuals already licensed in another state to obtain an Ohio license.

These numbers reflect significant progress toward strengthening Ohio's elevator workforce, yet the Division is highlighting a continuing need for additional licensed professionals. State-issued licensure remains the most direct and reliable route to full professional recognition and ensures compliance with Ohio's strict safety standards.

Under Ohio law, licensed elevator mechanics are required for most conveyance services. However, certain exceptions allow non-licensed individuals to perform work, such as when they're working as elevator tradespersons under the direct supervision of a licensed mechanic; they're under contract with a licensed contractor who is physically present; or they're employees of conveyance manufacturing companies working on equipment made by their employer.

These provisions balance the industry's operational needs with the imperative of public safety.

As Ohio's infrastructure grows and modernizes, the demand for skilled, licensed elevator professionals will continue to rise. The Division encourages individuals interested in a stable, technical, and safety-focused career to pursue licensing through one of several available pathways, apprenticeships, nationally recognized training programs, state exam, or reciprocity options.

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About the Divisions of Industrial Compliance
The Division of Industrial Compliance is part of the Ohio Department of Commerce. The department is Ohio's chief regulatory agency, focused on promoting prosperity and protecting what matters most to Ohioans. We ensure businesses follow the laws that help them create jobs and keep Ohioans safe. To learn more about what we do, visit our website at com.ohio.gov.