North Carolina Low Voltage Contractor License Requirements

🔴 License Required: North Carolina requires the SP-FA/LV (Special Restricted Fire Alarm/Low Voltage) license for low voltage contractors.

Current Requirements (2024-2025)

The North Carolina State Board of Examiners of Electrical Contractors regulates low voltage work through the SP-FA/LV special restricted license classification. This license is specifically designed for contractors working with fire alarm and low voltage systems.

SP-FA/LV License Overview

The Special Restricted Fire Alarm/Low Voltage (SP-FA/LV) license authorizes installation, maintenance, and repair of low voltage wiring and directly related wiring systems. Unlike limited or intermediate licenses, SP-FA/LV has no project value restrictions.

Key Requirements:

Voltage Threshold: Systems 50 volts or less
Project Value: No dollar limit restrictions
License Duration: 1 year (annual renewal)
Statewide Authority: Valid throughout North Carolina

Systems and Work Covered

Authorized Low Voltage Systems:

Fire Alarm Systems: Detection, notification, and control systems
Security Systems: Burglar alarms, intrusion detection
Access Control: Card readers, electronic locks, biometric systems
CCTV/Surveillance: Video cameras, recording systems
Communications: Intercom, paging, nurse call systems
Data/Telecommunications: Structured cabling, network infrastructure
Audio/Video Systems: Sound systems, displays, home theater
Building Automation: Low voltage control systems

Important Note:

The SP-FA/LV license is limited to low voltage work only. Any electrical work requiring connection to building power systems over 50 volts requires a different electrical contractor classification.

License Requirements

Experience Requirements

Minimum Experience: 2 years in the trade
Primary Experience: At least 1 year must be primary experience
Documentation: Affidavits from employers or licensed contractors
NICET Certification: May count toward experience requirements

Examination Requirements

Trade Exam: Fire alarm and low voltage systems knowledge
Code References: Based on National Electrical Code 2020 (continuing through 2025)
Business & Law Exam: North Carolina regulations and business practices
Passing Score: 70% minimum on each exam
Testing Provider: PSI Services
Format: Computer-based testing at approved centers

Application Process

Submit application to NC Board of Examiners of Electrical Contractors
Provide proof of experience with employer affidavits
Pay application and examination fees
Receive exam eligibility notification
Schedule exam with PSI Services
Pass required examinations
Receive license upon approval

Financial Requirements

Fees and Insurance:

Application Fee: $75
Examination Fee: $90 per exam
License Fee: $50 (annual)
Renewal Fee: $50 (annual)
General Liability Insurance: Recommended minimum $300,000
Workers' Compensation: Required if 3 or more employees

Continuing Education

Annual Requirement: 4 hours of approved continuing education
Content: Must include code updates and industry changes
Approved Providers: Courses must be pre-approved by the Board
Documentation: Certificates required for renewal

Legal Authority

North Carolina General Statutes Chapter 87: Electrical Contractors
21 NCAC 18B: Rules of the Board of Examiners of Electrical Contractors
Section .0200: Licensing provisions
Section .0800: Special restricted classifications
National Electrical Code 2020: Adopted reference standard

Reciprocity

North Carolina offers limited reciprocity with certain states:

Must demonstrate equivalent licensing requirements
May need to pass North Carolina business and law exam
Experience verification required
Application and fees still apply

Local Jurisdiction Considerations

Municipal Permits: Building permits required for most installations
Charlotte: Additional local requirements may apply
Raleigh: Separate business license required
Fire Marshal Approval: Required for fire alarm systems
Inspection Requirements: State and local inspections may be required

Contact Information

North Carolina State Board of Examiners of Electrical Contractors
3625 National Drive, Suite 221
Raleigh, NC 27612
Mailing: P.O. Box 18727
Raleigh, NC 27619
Phone: (919) 733-9042
Fax: (919) 733-6105
Website: www.ncbeec.org

Renewal Information

License Term: 1 year (annual renewal)
Renewal Period: Before expiration date
Continuing Education: 4 hours required annually
Online Renewal: Available through Board website
Late Renewal: Grace period with late fees

Disclaimer: This information is provided for general guidance only and should not be considered legal advice. Requirements may change, and specific situations may require additional licensing. Always verify current requirements with the North Carolina State Board of Examiners of Electrical Contractors and local authorities before beginning work. Last updated: January 2025.

Last updated: January 2025

Low Voltage License North Carolina