Trade Career Guide
How to Become an Elevator Mechanic
Elevator installers and repairers assemble, maintain, and fix elevators, escalators, and moving walkways. It's consistently one of the highest-paid skilled trades in the country.
Median salary
$106,580
per year · BLS May 2024
Typical range
$54,720–$149,250
~10th–90th percentile
Job outlook
+5%
2024–2034 · Faster than average
Time to qualify
About a 4-year apprenticeship
Step-by-step: becoming an Elevator Mechanic
- 1
Earn a high school diploma or GED.
- 2
Enter an elevator apprenticeship (such as NEIEP), typically about 4 years.
- 3
Complete on-the-job training plus classroom work on electrical, hydraulic, and mechanical systems.
- 4
Pass your state Elevator Mechanic licensing exam where required.
- 5
Earn certification (for example, a CET credential).
- 6
Keep your license current with continuing education.
Typical entry path: Apprenticeship (about 4 years); license required in most states.
Ready to pass the Elevator Mechanic licensing exam?
The licensing exam is the gate to this career. Practice free on VoltExam with real exam-style questions and instant explanations — no signup to start.
Explore other trade careers
Salary and job-outlook figures from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (Elevator and Escalator Installers and Repairers, SOC 47-4021; OEWS wages May 2024; Occupational Outlook Handbook projections 2024–2034). National medians; actual pay varies by location, employer, and experience. Verify current figures at bls.gov.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does an Elevator Mechanic make?
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (May 2024), the median annual wage for Elevator and Escalator Installers and Repairers is $106,580. Most earn between about $54,720 and $149,250 depending on experience, location, and specialization.
How do you become an Elevator Mechanic?
Earn a high school diploma or GED. Enter an elevator apprenticeship (such as NEIEP), typically about 4 years. Complete on-the-job training plus classroom work on electrical, hydraulic, and mechanical systems. Pass your state Elevator Mechanic licensing exam where required. Earn certification (for example, a CET credential). Keep your license current with continuing education.
What is the job outlook for an Elevator Mechanic?
The BLS projects 5% employment growth for Elevator and Escalator Installers and Repairers over 2024–2034 — faster than average for all occupations.
What exam or license does an Elevator Mechanic need?
Most elevator mechanic roles require passing the Elevator Mechanic licensing exam. Typical entry path: Apprenticeship (about 4 years); license required in most states.