State Low Voltage Licensing

Alabama

People who need to be licensed
  • Installer/Technician
  • Salesperson
  • Central Station
  • Locksmith
  • Owner
  • Manager/Branch Manager
Application Process

Contact the Alabama Electronic Security Board of Licensure for an application. For a complete listing of rules and procedures for licensure, visit the web site listed below, and click the section for “rules.”

Fees

$150.00 Administrative Fee (One time fee upon the first application)

See the rules and regulations PDF at the below URL for more information about license fees.

Alaska

License Types
  • Communications Contractors
    Installs telephone wiring and equipment, radio communications devices and equipment, audiovisual equipment, and navigational equipment.
  • Low Voltage Alarm or Signaling Device Contractor
    Installs fire sensing and signaling devices, intrusion or proximity detection and signaling devices, or automatic fire protection systems, except sprinkler systems.
Application Process

A specialty contractor is limited to three non-mechanical trades, such as communications and low voltage alarm and signaling devices. Download the application for the General, Mechanical and Specialty Contractor


Please note that all construction contractors required to be licensed by the State of Alaska MUST first apply for an Alaska Business License. For more information about this, call (907) 465-2550, or visit www.dced.state.ak.us

Fees
  • Application fee: $50.00
  • License fee: $200.00
  • Renewal fee: Biennial registration renewal fee (for all or part of the licensing period) $200.00

Arizona

License Types

Specialty Residential Contracting:

  • C-11: Electrical
    Installation and repair of electrical systems.
  • C-12: Low Voltage Communication Systems
    Installation and repair of low voltage alarm, intercom, telephone, call, clock and television systems, including towers and antennas.
  • C-16: Fire protection Systems
    Installation and repair of fire prevention and protection systems including all low voltage signaling systems.

Specialty Dual License Contracting:

  • K-11: Electrical
    This classification allows the scope of work permitted by the commercial L-11 Electrical and residential C-11 Electrical licenses.
  • K-16: Fire protection Systems
    This classification allows the scope or work permitted by the commercial L-16 Fire Protection Systems and the residential C-16 Fire Protection Licenses.
  • K-67: Low Voltage Communications Systems
    This classification allows the scope of work permitted by the commercial L-67 Low Voltage Communications Systems, and the residential C-12 Low Voltage Communications Systems Licenses.

Specialty Commercial Contracting:

  • L-67: Low Voltage Communication Systems
    Installation, service, repair, and maintenance of systems and devices of low voltage, including public address; intercommunication systems; telephone switchboards; call systems; master and program clocks (Low voltage wiring and needed equipment only.)

For a complete list of Contractor’s License Classifications, visit: www.rc.state.az.us.

Application Process

For a list of the steps involved in applying for a license, and to download an application, visit the following link: www.rc.state.az.us.

Arkansas

The State of Arkansas requires special licensing for security alarm system installation/monitoring.

For licensing information with the Arkansas State Police, telephone the Regulatory Services office at: (501) 618-8600

California

The Sate of California requires special licensing for Low Voltage Electrical Contractors, and for the installation and maintenance of burglar alarms.

License Types Low Voltage
Low Voltage Systems Contractor

C-7 License: Low Voltage Systems Contractor
Installs, services and maintains all types of communication and low voltage systems which are energy limited and do not exceed 91 volts. These systems include, telephone systems, sound systems, cable television systems, closed-circuit video systems, satellite dish antennas, instrumentation and temperature controls, and low voltage landscape lighting. Low voltage fire alarm systems are specifically not included in this section.

Application Process

Download an application packet at www.cslb.ca.gov by clicking on the PDF for “Application for Contractor’s License.” Here, applicants can find information and download an application to gain a C-7 License: Low Voltage Systems Contractor.

Fees

Low Voltage/Electric Contractor Single classification: $250

License types required for Burglar alarm work
  • Alarm Company Operator License
    Needed for a business that sells, installs, monitors, maintains, services or responds to alarm systems. In order for a company to seek this license, there must be a Qualified Manager on staff.
  • Qualified Manager
    An individual who will manage the business on a day-to-day basis. Must have passed the licensing examination.
  • Alarm Agent (registration)
    Employed by an alarm company operator to sell, install, monitor, maintain, service of respond to alarm systems or to supervise such actions.
Application Process

Applications for registration as an alarm agent are available from alarm company operators. To request an application for licensure as an Alarm Company operator or Qualified Manager, call (916) 322-4000 or (800) 952-5210, or visit the BSIS web site.

Application Fees
  • Alarm Company Operator: $35
  • Qualified Manager: $105
  • Alarm Agent: $17 Registration fee

Connecticut

License Types
  • Limited Electrical Contractor (L-5)
    Covers work in ADT, Low voltage signal work, audio and sound systems (voltage of any system not to exceed 25 volts)
  • Limited Electrical Contractor (C-5)
    ADT, low voltage signal work, telephone-interconnect systems (to voltage of any system is not to exceed 48 volts)
  • Limited Electrical Journeyperson (C-6)
    May perform the same work as C-5 contractor, but must be in the employment of a licensed C-5 contractor.
Application Process

Applications are available online.

Colorado

The State of Colorado exempts low voltage and security installers (less than 50 volts).


Visit the Office of Economic Development and International Tradefor more detailed information

Delaware

License Types
  • Master Electrician
  • Master Limited
  • Master Electrician Special
  • Limited Electrician Special
Download applications
Fees

Contact the Board of Electrical Examiners for more information.

Florida

License Types
  • Specialty Electrical Contractor
    This includes Limited Energy (low voltage) Systems Specialty Contractor
Download applications
  • Department of Business and Professional Regulation
    Division of Professions
    Electrical Contractors’ Licensing Board
  • 1940 North Monroe Street
  • Tallahassee, FL 32399-0771
  • Phone: 850-487-1395
  • E-mail:
  • for e-mails, include “Electrical” in subject line.

Georgia

License Type
  • Low Voltage Contractor
    Includes alarm systems and telecommunication systems
Application Process

Download applications

Fees

$30.00 non-refundable application fee. No license fee—mailed to applicants within 6 weeks of passing exam. Renewal fee for a two-year period is $75.00

Hawaii

Types of Licenses
  • Journey Worker Specialty Electrician
  • Supervising Specialty Electrician
Applications

Download applications

Fees
  • Application fee: $40.00
  • License fee
    • $225.00 if licensed between July 1 and June 30 of the first year of the triennium.
    • $150.00 if licensed between July 1 and June 30 of the 2nd year of the triennium.
    • $75.00 is licensed between July 1 and June 30 of the 3rd year of the triennium.
  • Renewal fee: $225.00

Idaho

Types of Licenses
  • Specialty Electrical Contractor’s License
  • Specialty Journeyman License
Application Process

Downloaded an application for a Specialty Electrical License

Downloaded an application for a Specialty Electrical Contractor’s License

Fees
  • Application Fee: $15.00 administrative fee for both
  • License Fee:
    • For Specialty Journeyman: $55.00
    • For Specialty Contractors: $125.00

Illinois

Types of Licenses
  • Private Alarm Contractor
  • Private Security Contractor
Application Process

Downloaded an application for Private Alarm Contractor

Downloaded an application for a Private Security Contractor

Fees

Indiana

There is no statewide licensing; though most municipalities have contractor licensing. Some municipalities have low voltage/specialty licensing. Contact the following office for more information:

Iowa

There is no statewide licensing for electrical journeyman, contractors, or specialty licenses.

Kansas

At this time there is no statewide licensing or specialty licensing.

Kentucky

License Types
  • Electrical Contractor
  • Master Electrician
  • Electrician

These licenses are required to perform any electrical work in the state of Kentucky. Please note, however, that workers installing or repairing low-voltage telecommunications systems are exempt from licensure. There is separate licensure for the fire protection alarm systems.

The Fire Protection Systems Section licenses fire protection contractors. Download applications and forms for alarm licenses.

Application Process

Download applications

Fees
  • Application fee for Electrical Contractor: $200
  • Application fee for Master Electrician: $100
  • Application fee for Electrician: $50
  • All fees are non-refundable

Louisiana

License Types
  • Type A Firm-Security
  • Type E or F Employee-Security Sales
Application Process

Maine

License Type
  • Limited Electrician in Low Energy. This includes:
    • Low-energy electronics
Application Process

Download applications

Maryland

The State Board of Master Electricians issues only one license: Master Electrician. In Maryland the actual performance licenses to perform electrical work is issued by each of the municipalities. Many of the municipalities do issue additional categories of electrical licenses. All of these licenses are “lesser” than a Master Electrician. For example, some local municipalities may issue a “limited electrician”or“low voltage” license. Individuals interested in obtaining a lesser license must contact the local jurisdiction where he or she intends to be doing that kind of work. Not all municipalities offer a lesser license. In the municipalities that do not offer a lesser license, an individual would need to hold a master electrician’s license to perform any kind of electrical work.


Contact the Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing if you have any questions.

Massachusetts

License Types
  • Systems Contractor
  • Systems Technician

“Systems” include security.

Application Process

Obtain an application

Fees

Fees and renewal information

Michigan

License Types
  • Security Alarm Contractors
Application Process

Download the PDF for Security Alarm Contractors

Fees
  • Application Fee: $500.00 (non-refundable)
  • Renewal: $250.00

Minnesota

License Types
  • Power Limited Technician
  • Technology Systems Contractor
Application Process

For more Information and Instruction go to Minnesota Electricity Board.

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Mississippi

At this time there appears to be no statewide specialty electrical licensing.

Missouri

There is no statewide specialty electrical licensing, however, local jurisdictions do offer specific licensing to perform certain electrical work. Therefore, individuals must contact the specific jurisdiction where the work is to be performed to find out what licensing is necessary.

Montana

License Types
  • Alarm Installer (AI)
Application Process

Download the Alarm Systems Installer application

Fees
  • Alarm Installer: $25.00
  • Company: $200.00

Nebraska

License Types
  • Residential Journeyman Wireman, (RW)
Application Process

Download a licensing exam application

Fees
  • RW Examination Fee
    $60.00
  • RW License Fee
    The fee for a license issued in an even numbered year is $13.00. The fee for a license issued in an odd numbered year is $25.00.

Nevada

License Types

The State of Nevada divides contractors into different classifications. There are primary classifications, and sub-classifications. Sub-classifications specify the types of work the contractor will be licensed to perform.

Primary Classification C2- Electrical Contractor
  • Subclassification C2E- Signal Systems
  • Subclassification C-2d- Low Voltage Systems
  • Subclassification C-2h- Photovoltaics
More information regarding the Classification of Contractors
Application Process

Download application forms

Fees

Please contact the State Contractors Board for information regarding fees.

New Hampshire

At this time, the State of New Hampshire does not appear to have any specialty licensing for low-voltage electrical work.

New Jersey

License Types

The Electronic Security System , which is under the supervision of the Board of Examiners of Electrical Contractors, is currently developing rules, regulations and standards to govern the licensing and practice of fire and burglar alarm installers.

  • Burglar Alarm License
  • Electronic Security System
Application Process

View the applications

  • State of New Jersey
  • Department of Law & Public Safety
  • Division of Consumer Affairs
  • Board of Examiners of Electrical Contractors
  • Fire Alarm, Burglar Alarm and Locksmith Advisory Committee
  • P.O. Box 45042
  • Newark, NJ 07101
  • Phone: (973) 504-6245
  • www.state.nj.us/lps/ca/nonmedical/electrical.htm

New Mexico

License Types
Electrical Contractor

Electrical contractors are issued a certificate of competence by the Construction Industries Division. The low voltage certificate types are listed below:

  • ES-3: Sound and Intercommunication and Electrical Alarm Systems
  • ES-7: Telephone Communications Systems
Journeyman Electrician

Low voltage certificate of competence types for journeyman electricians are listed below:

  • ES-3J: Sound and Intercommunication and Electrical Alarm Systems
  • ES-7J: Telephone Communications Systems
Application Process

Contact the Construction Industries Division for applications.

Fees

The fee for a certificate of competence is $25.00 per year for each classification held.

New York

License Types

No individual may engage in the business of installing, servicing or maintaining security systems or hold him or herself out as being able to do so unless he or she is licensed by the State of New York.

  • Security Alarm Installer
Application Process
Fees and Information on Qualification

Go to the Division of Licensing Services site to view information on fees and qualifications for licensing Click Here

  • New York State
  • Department of State
  • Division of Licensing Services
  • 84 Holland Ave.
  • Albany, NY 12208-3490
  • Phone: (518) 474-4429
  • Fax: (518) 473-6648
  • E-mail:

North Carolina

License Types

There are 10 different classifications of electrical contracting licenses. One of the special restricted electrical contracting classifications is

Application Process

After passing a qualifying exam, applicants for electrical contracting licenses in any of the license classifications must (1) submit a completed application for the license classification desired, (2) submit the appropriate annual license fee, and (3) furnish the name, signature and social security number of at least one person to serve as the listed qualified individual for the applicant’s license. Applications may be obtained by calling the office (919) 733-9042 between the hours of 8:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

North Dakota

License Types
Electrical Contractor

Electrical contractors are issued a license through the North Dakota State Electrical Board

  • Class B Electrician
Journeyman Electrician

Low voltage certificate of competence types for journeyman electricians are listed below:

Application Process

To obtain an application contact the North Dakota Electrical Board

Ohio

At this time there does not appear to be any separate specialty electrical licensing.

Oklahoma

License Types
  • Residential Electrical Journeyman
Application Process

Download an application

Fees
Initial licensing Fees:
  • Residential Electrical Journeyman: $75.00

Oregon

License Types
  • Restricted Energy Technician
  • Ltd. Journeyman Limited Energy Electrician
Application Process

Download an application

Pennsylvania

There is no State Level low voltage electrical licensing. All electrical licensing requirements are regulated at the local level.

Rhode Island

License Types
  • Telecommunication System Contractor
  • Telecommunications System Technician
  • Telecommunication System Limited Installer
  • Telecommunication Apprentice
Application Process

Download the appropriate applications

South Carolina

License Types
  • Specialty Contractor
    Electrician Classification
Application Process

Download application PDF

Fees

Contact The Commission for information about fees.

Fees
Contact Board for information about fees.

South Dakota

While all persons engaging in any kind of electrical work must be licensed by the state of South Dakota; there is no specific specialty licensing set aside for low voltage or alarm work. All electrical work (including low voltage) is covered under the following licensing’s:

  • Electrical Contractor
  • Journeyman Electrician
  • Class B Electrician

Tennessee

License Types
  • Low Voltage
    Less than 70 volts
    • Sound
    • Intercom
    • Alarm systems
Application Process

For more information and to download an applications Click Here.

Fees

To read more about fees Click Here.

Texas

License Types
  • Alarm Systems Installer
  • Alarm Systems Monitor
Application Process

Download this document for Texas Eligibility License Information

Download this document for more information on application and fees

Utah

License Types
  • Burglar Alarm Company
  • Burglar Alarm Company Agent
  • Burglar Alarm Company Qualifier
  • Temporary Burglar Alarm Company Agent
Application Process

Download state of Utah Buglar Alarm Information

Download PSI exam information

Download applications and other necessary forms

Contact the Board for fee information.

Vermont

License Types

Type-S journeyman license

Application Process

Information and instructions regarding the application process for licensure/examination

Virginia

License Types

“Electrical Contractors” in the State of Virginia means those individuals whose contracts include the construction, repair, maintenance, alteration or removal of electrical systems under the National Electrical Code. This classification provides for all work covered by the National Electrical Code including electrical work covered by the alarm/security systems contracting, electronic/communication service contracting and fire alarm systems contracting specialties. A firm holding an electrical license is responsible for meeting all applicable tradesman licensing standards.

  • Journeyman
  • Master
Application Process

Download all applications and necessary forms

Fees

Contact the Board for Contractors/Tradesmen for fee information.

Washington

License Types
  • Telecommunications Contractor’s License
  • Administrator
    Electrical or Telecommunication Contractors must designate an administrator who must ensure that all work is in compliance with the laws and rules.
Application Process

For more information about applying for a Telecommunications Contractor License and to apply online.

  • Washington State Department of Labor and Industries
  • Electrical Section
  • Chief Electrical Inspector: (360) 902-5249
  • Fax: (360) 902-5229
Licensing and General Information
  • General Info: (360) 902-5249
  • Fax: (360) 902-5296
  • Supervisor: (360) 902-6278
  • www.lni.wa.gov

West Virginia

License Types

Specialty Electrician with a classification in:

  • Fire/Burglar Alarm (low voltage)
Application Process

Download an application

Wisconsin

While electrical licensing is handled at the state level, at this time there does not appear to be any specific low voltage or specialty electrical licensing.

Wyoming

License Types
  • Limited/Low Voltage Technician
  • Limited/Low Voltage Contractor
  • Limited/Low Voltage Apprentice Technician

All these license types can cover any of the following categories of work:

  • Low Voltage General
  • Low Voltage Alarms
  • Low Voltage Communications
  • Low Voltage Sound
  • Low Voltage Television
  • Low Voltage Controls
Application Process

Download all necessary forms and applications