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-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-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.
Application Fees
- Limited Electrical Contractor (L-5): $75.00
- Limited Electrical Contractor (C-5): $75.00
- Limited Electrical Journeyperson (C-6): $45.00
Colorado
The State of Colorado does not license or register burglar alarm or fire alarm installations. Alarm installation and sales businesses are frequently licensed on the local level. Always contact the local city or county government to determine local requirements.
More detailed information
Delaware
License Types
- Master Electrician
- Master Limited
- Master Electrician Special
- Limited Electrician Special
Fees
Contact the Board of Electrical Examiners for more information.
Florida
License Types
- Registered Alarm Contractor I
Fire and Burglar
- Registered Alarm System Contractor II
Burglar Only
- Specialty Electrical Contractor
This includes Limited Energy (low voltage) Systems Specialty Contractor
- 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: callcenter@dbpr.state.fl.us
- 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
Illinois
No statewide licensing of electrical contractors or journeyman is required. There is separate licensing required for any firm that installs or maintains fire and burglar alarm systems.
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. The State Fire Marshal has the authority to inspect for fire hazards.
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-Full Burglar Alarm, Access Control and CCTV
- Type A-1 Firm-Single Station Fire Alarm in 1&2 Family Dwellings
- Type A Employee
- Type A-1 Employee
- Type A-4 Firm- CCTV Alarm System Contractor
- Type A-4 Employee
- Class D – Fire Detection and Alarm for Fires
- Class D-1- Non-required Fire Alarm
- Class D-2- Minor Service & repair to own Fire Alarm Systems
Application Process
Fees
- License Fee: Original Firm fee for Electronic protective system licenses (Burglar): $250.00
- Original Employee fee for Electronic protective system licenses: $100
- Fire Alarm Firm and Employee fees
Maine
License Type
- Limited Electrician in Low Energy. This includes:
- Fire Alarms
- Low-energy electronics
- Low-voltage landscape lighting
Application Process
Download applications
Fees
- Application Fee: $25.00
- License Fee: $100.00
- Renewal Fee: For Limited Electrician (renewal necessary every 2 years): $100.00
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.
Minnesota
License Types
- Power Limited Technician
- Technology Systems Contractor
Application Process
Application forms are not available online. You must request all necessary forms from the Minnesota Electricity Board.
Fees
- License
- For Power Limited Technician: $30.00
- For Technology Systems Contractor: $100 per year
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.
Nebraska
License Types
Application Process
Download a licensing exam application
Fees
- FA Examination Fee
$60.00
- FA License Fee
The fee for a license issued in an even numbered year is $25.00. The fee for a license issued in an odd numbered year is $50.00.
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 C2C- Fire Detection
- Subclassification C2E- Signal Systems
- Subclassification C-2d- Low Voltage Systems
- Subclassification C-2h- Photovoltaics
Primary Classification C41- Fire Protection
- Subclassification C41C- Fire Alarms
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 Fire Alarm, Burglar Alarm and Locksmith Advisory Committee, 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
- Fire Alarm License
Application Process
View the application PDF
Fees
Background Check: $33.00
The Board must conduct a mandatory background check on all Fire Alarm, and Burglar Alarm applicants.
Application: $150.00
Individuals who wish to apply for both a fire alarm and burglar alarm license must fill out two separate applications. The first license applied for will be $150.00. The second license applied for is $100.00.
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 or fire alarm 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
- Fire Alarm Installer
Application Process
Applications cannot be downloaded online. Please use the provided information to order an application:
- Contact and Ordering Info:
- Keith W. Stack
- Deputy Secretary of State for Business and Licensing Services
- Department of State
- Division of Licensing Services
- 84 Holland Ave.
- Albany, NY 12208-3490
- E-mail: licensing@dos.state.ny.us
- Phone: (518) 474-4429
- Fax: (518) 473-6648
Fees
There are several payment instruments. Only one payment instrument is required.
- Examination and Education: $260.00 (This includes $185 application fee and $75.00 NY State fingerprint fee)
- Experience and Education: $275.00 (includes $200.00 application fee and $75.00 NY State Fingerprint fee)
- Master Electrician Status: Individuals licensed as master electricians who wish to engage in the installation, servicing or maintaining of security or fire alarm systems are not exempt from filing with the Department of State. However, two forms of waiver from some of the specific licensing requirements (by virtue of their status as a licensed master electrician) are available and outlined on the application form. For more information, please contact the Division of Licensing Services. Mater Electrician Statewide: $275.00 (includes $200.00 application fee and $75.00 NYS fingerprint fee) Master Electrician Local: $50.00 application fee only. No fingerprint requirement.
- 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: licensing@dos.state.ny.us
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.
Fees
- Examination Fee for all classifications: $75.00
- License Fee for all special restricted classifications: $60.00
List of all fees
North Dakota
At this time there does not appear to be any separate specialty electrical licensing.
Ohio
At this time there does not appear to be any separate specialty electrical licensing.
Oklahoma
License Types
- Burglar Alarm Technician
- Burglar Alarm Sales
- Fire Alarm Technician-Limited
- Fire Alarm Technician-Unlimited
- Fire Alarm Sales-Limited
- Fire Alarm Sales-Unlimited
- Alarm Company
- Alarm Company Manager
Application Process
Download an application
Fees
Initial licensing Fees:
- Alarm Company License: $250.00
- Alarm Technician/Alarm Technician Trainee: $75.00
- Alarm Company Manager: $200.00
- Alarm Salesperson: $75.00
- Re-Examination, Per Attempt: $50.00
- Inspector: $75.00
- Duplicate of Revised License: $25.00
Renewal fees:
- Alarm Company License: $250.00
- Alarm Company Manager: $ 100.00
- Alarm Technician: $35.00
- Alarm Technician Trainee: $25.00
- Alarm Salesperson: $35.00
- Inspector: $35.00
Oregon
License Types
- Restricted Energy Technician
- Ltd. Journeyman Limited Energy Electrician
Application Process
Download an application
Fees
Pennsylvania
There is no State Level low voltage electrical licensing. All electrical and alarm licensing requirements are regulated at the local level.
Rhode Island
License Types
- Master Alarm Electrician
- Journeyman Alarm Electrician
- Telecommunication System Contractor
- Telecommunications System Technician
- Telecommunication System Limited Installer
- Telecommunication Apprentice
Application Process
Download the appropriate applications
Fees
- Master Alarm Electrician License Fee: $75.00
- Master Alarm Electrician Renewal Fee: $120.00
- Journeyman Alarm Electrician License Fee: $75.00
- Journeyman Alarm Electrician Renewal Fee: $36.00
- Telecommunication System Contractor Annual License Fee: $120.00
- Telecommunication System Technician Annual License Fee: $72.00
- Telecommunication System Limited Installer Annual License Fee: $36.00
- Telecommunication Apprentice Annual License Fee: $24.00
- Telecommunication System Application/Test Fees:
- Data: $36.00
- Sound: $36.00
- Telephony: $36.00
- Video: $36.00
South Carolina
License Types
- Burglar and Fire Alarm Business
- Burglar Alarm Contractor
Application Process
Download forms and information
Mailing address
- P.O. Box 11329
- Columbia, SC
- 29211-1329
License Types
Application Process
Download forms and information
Fees
Contact Board for information about fees.
- Board of Professional Engineers and Land Surveyors
- Synergy Business Park
- Kingstree Building
- 110 Centerview Dr., Suite 201
- Columbia, SC 29210
- Jan Simpson/Administrator
- engls@llr.sc.gov
Mailing address
- P.O. Box 11597
- Columbia, SC 29211-1597
- Phone: (803) 896-4422
- Fax: (803) 896-4427
- www.llr.state.sc.us
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
- Fire detection
- Alarm systems
- Telephone lines and cabling
Application Process
Low Voltage work (Less than 70 volts) does not require an exam for application, but, must register with the Alarm Contractors Board as well. Download the application.
Information about the necessary steps for obtaining a license
Fees
Application: $150.00
This is a non-refundable fee, due to the board upon completion of the application.
License Types
- Alarm Contractor Company
- Alarm Systems Contractor Qualifying Agent
This is for specific classification: Fire, Burglar, CCTV, Monitoring
- Alarm Contractor Registered Employee
Application Process
Employing company must register employees in accordance with the law within 30 days of employment. Each applicant must submit:
- A signed, notarized application along with the appropriate non-refundable application fee of $80.00.
- Three completed fingerprint cards issued by this office.
- The required $48.00 fee.
- Two 1” x 1” color passport-style photos with the name of the applicant printed on the back of each.
- Be at least 18 years of age
- Be of good moral character.
Application & Fees
Contact the Board office to request applications or to obtain more detailed information about fees and procedures.
Texas
License Types
- Fire Alarm Technician
- Fire Alarm Monitoring Technician
- Residential Fire Alarm Superintendent-Single Station
- Residential Fire Alarm Superintendent
- Fire Alarm Planning Superintendent
Application Process
Download Fire Alarm License applications and other necessary forms and information
Fees
- Fire Alarm Technician: $120.00
- Fire Alarm Monitoring Technician: $120.00
- Residential Fire Alarm Superintendent-Single Station: $120.00
- Residential Fire Alarm Superintendent: $120.00
- Fire Alarm Planning Superintendent: $120.00
License Types
- Alarm Systems Installer
- Alarm Systems Monitor
Application Process
Contact the Private Security Bureau at the above number to request an application.
Application & Fees
Contact the Bureau for fee information.
Utah
License Types
- Burglar Alarm Company
- Burglar Alarm Company Agent
- Burglar Alarm Company Qualifier
- Temporary Burglar Alarm Company Agent
Application Process
Download applications and other necessary forms
Fees
Contact the Board for fee information.
Vermont
License Types
Type-S journeyman license
- Type-S classifications include
- Household fire detection
- Commercial fire alarm system
Application Process
Information and instructions regarding the application process for licensure/examination
Fees
Type-S Journeyman application fee: $90.00 per field.
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.
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.
Fees
Total fees are $267.90. Must be paid by credit card (Visa/MC) Fees are nonrefundable after license has been issued.
- Washington State Department of Labor and Industries
- Electrical Section
- Chief Electrical Inspector: (360) 902-5249
- Fax: (360) 902-5229
- 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
Fees
- Exam Fee: $25.00
- License Fee: $50.00
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
Fees
- Application for Limited/Low Voltage Technician: $100.00
- Application for Limited/Low Voltage Contractor: $200.00
- Application for Limited/ Low Voltage Apprentice Technician: $20.00
- Renewal for Limited/Low Voltage Technician: $50.00/yr
- Renewal for Limited/Low Voltage Contractor: $200.00/yr
- Renewal for Limited/Low Voltage Apprentice Technician: $20.00/yr
