Maryland Licensing Laws and Regulations
What the Maryland licensing domain tests
Maryland regulates elevator work through the Maryland Elevator Safety Act and regulations administered by the Maryland Department of Labor, with the Elevator Safety Review Board. The exam tests who may perform work, what the contractor must obtain, and how enforcement works. The key principle is that elevator work is licensed at both the individual and company level, and permits and inspections attach to the job.
Core rules
- An elevator mechanic license is required to perform elevator installation, alteration, maintenance, and repair. Apprentices must be registered and work under the direct supervision of a licensed mechanic.
- An elevator contractor license is required for the business that contracts the work. The contractor obtains permits, maintains insurance, and ensures that licensed personnel perform the work.
- A permit and acceptance inspection are required before a new or altered elevator or escalator is placed in service. Certificates of operation are issued after inspection and must be maintained.
- The Board may discipline licensees for code violations, incompetent work, or fraudulent inspections. Continuing education and renewal requirements apply as set by regulation.
- Local jurisdictions may add requirements, but a local license does not replace the Maryland state license.
Worked example
A technician has three years of helper experience and is offered a solo service call in Baltimore. Reasoning: experience alone does not authorize solo elevator work. The technician must hold a Maryland elevator mechanic license; if still an apprentice, the apprentice must be supervised by a licensed mechanic. The contractor must hold a Maryland elevator contractor license and, for the repair scope, determine whether a permit is required. Accepting the solo call without those credentials exposes the technician and contractor to enforcement.
Traps
Do not assume a city or county license satisfies state law. Do not let an apprentice sign inspection or test records that require a licensed mechanic. Do not perform permit-required alteration work as "maintenance" to avoid inspection.