Florida Intercom Permit Requirements: Limited Energy License Guide

Florida requires state licensing for intercom system installation. The Electrical Contractors' Licensing Board (ECLB) oversees low voltage work through the Limited Energy Specialty Contractor license. Here's what contractors need to know about working legally in Florida.

The Limited Energy License

Florida's Limited Energy (Low Voltage) contractor license covers the installation, repair, and design of electrical systems not exceeding 77 volts when used for transmitting data or signals. This includes:

• Intercom systems
• Public address systems
• Telephone systems
• Data distribution and networks
• Home theater and surround sound
• Electric locks
• Central vacuum systems
• Fiber optics

The license covers work governed by NEC Articles 725 (Class 2 and 3 circuits), 770, 800, 810, and 820.

Source: Florida ECLB FAQs

License Types: Certified vs Registered

Certified (Statewide)

A certified Limited Energy contractor can work anywhere in Florida without additional local licensing. This is the recommended path for contractors working across multiple jurisdictions.

Registered (Local)

A registered license is valid only within the specific county or municipality that issued it. If you work in multiple areas, you'd need separate registrations for each.

Experience Requirements

To qualify for the Limited Energy license exam, you must meet ONE of these requirements:

Path	Requirement
Option 1	3 years of management experience in electrical contracting within the last 6 years
Option 2	4 years as foreman, supervisor, or contractor in the electrical trade within the last 8 years
Option 3	6 years of comprehensive training, technical education, or supervisory experience with an electrical or alarm contracting business within the last 12 years

Documentation Required: W-2 forms for years worked to verify employment with qualified businesses.

Examination

The Florida certification exam consists of:

• Technical/Safety Exam: 5 hours, 105 questions (open book)
• Business Exam: 3 hours, 55 questions (open book)

Exam Fees

• Application fee to DBPR: $316.25
• Testing vendor fee: $78.75

When Permits Are Required

Even with proper licensing, you'll need permits for most commercial and new construction intercom work:

Scenario	Permit Required?
Residential video doorbell	Usually No
Residential wired intercom (existing home)	Varies by county
Residential new construction	Yes (part of electrical permit)
Commercial intercom system	Yes
Multi-family/apartment systems	Yes
Integration with access control	Yes

Major Florida Cities

Miami-Dade County

Miami-Dade has additional local requirements beyond state licensing. Commercial intercom work requires permits through the Building Department. The county is known for strict enforcement.

Broward County (Fort Lauderdale)

Broward County follows state licensing but has its own permit processes. Low voltage permits are required for commercial installations.

Orlando (Orange County)

Orange County requires permits for commercial low voltage work. Residential work in existing homes may be exempt for simple intercom installations.

Tampa (Hillsborough County)

Hillsborough County requires low voltage permits for commercial work. Check with the Building Services Department for specific requirements.

Jacksonville (Duval County)

Jacksonville requires permits for commercial low voltage installations through the Building Inspection Division.

Continuing Education

Florida licenses renew every two years (August 31 of even-numbered years). Required continuing education:

• Total Hours: 14 hours
• Required Topics:
  • 2 hours Energy Conservation
  • 1 hour Accessibility
  • 1 hour Ethics
  • 2 hours Florida Rules/Laws

Related Licenses You May Need

Alarm System Contractor (EF or EG)

If your intercom system integrates with burglar alarms, you may need an Alarm System Contractor license. See our Florida Burglar Alarm License Guide.

Fire Alarm License

Intercom systems connected to fire alarm panels require additional fire alarm licensing through the State Fire Marshal.

Working Without a License

Florida takes unlicensed contracting seriously:

• First offense: Up to $5,000 fine
• Repeat offenses: Up to $10,000 fine and potential criminal charges
• Unlicensed work may void contracts and insurance coverage

How to Get Licensed

1. Verify experience: Gather W-2s and employment documentation
2. Submit application: Complete ECLB 8 form with DBPR
3. Pay fees: $316.25 application fee
4. Schedule exam: After approval, schedule with testing vendor
5. Pass exams: Complete both Technical/Safety and Business exams
6. Receive license: License issued upon passing

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I install Ring doorbells without a license in Florida?

Wireless, battery-powered doorbells installed by homeowners don't require licensing. However, if you're a contractor being paid to install them, you technically need a license for any low voltage work.

Is the Limited Energy license the same as a "low voltage" license?

Yes. Florida calls it "Limited Energy" but it's commonly referred to as the low voltage license. It covers work up to 77 volts.

Can I work in Florida with an out-of-state license?

Florida has limited reciprocity. You'll likely need to apply for a Florida license, though some experience requirements may be waived. Contact DBPR for specific reciprocity information.

Contact Information

Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation
Electrical Contractors' Licensing Board
Phone: (850) 487-1395
Website: MyFloridaLicense.com

Related Florida Guides

• Florida Burglar Alarm License Requirements
• Florida Low Voltage Contractor License Guide

Find Intercom Projects in Florida

Looking for intercom and access control opportunities in Florida? LVN Signal tracks construction permits and bids across Miami, Orlando, Tampa, Jacksonville, and throughout the state.

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Last updated: February 2026. Florida licensing requirements can change. Always verify current requirements with the ECLB and DBPR before beginning work.