Georgia Burglar Alarm License Requirements: LV-A License Guide
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Georgia requires an LV-A (Alarm) license from the State Board of Low Voltage Contractors for burglar alarm installation. Needs 1 year experience, background check, and passing exam. Security company services may require additional Board of Private Detective licensing.
Georgia Burglar Alarm License Requirements: LV-A License Guide
Georgia requires an LV-A (Alarm) low voltage license to install burglar alarm systems. This is issued by the State Board of Low Voltage Contractors and requires 1 year of experience plus passing an examination. Security company licensing through the Board of Private Detective and Security Agencies may also apply.
Quick Answer
You need an LV-A (Alarm Low Voltage) or LV-U (Unrestricted) license from the Georgia State Board of Low Voltage Contractors to install burglar alarms. Requirements: 1 year alarm experience, background check, 3 references, and passing a 70% open-book exam. If operating a security company with guard services, separate licensing from the Board of Private Detective and Security Agencies may be required.
Georgia Low Voltage Alarm License (LV-A)
The Georgia State Board of Low Voltage Contractors regulates alarm installation.
LV-A License Scope
The LV-A license covers:
"Any device or combination of devices used to detect a situation, causing an alarm in the event of a burglary, fire, robbery, medical emergency, or equipment failure, or on the occurrence of any other predetermined event."
This includes:
- Burglar alarm systems
- Fire alarm systems
- Medical alert systems
- Equipment failure alarms
- Access control (security integrated)
Alternative: LV-U License
The LV-U (Unrestricted) license covers ALL low voltage work including alarm, general, and telecom. Consider this if you do diverse work.
License Requirements
Qualifications
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Experience | 1 year in alarm system work within the category |
| References | 3 letters (at least 1 from licensed contractor) |
| Background Check | Through local law enforcement |
| Examination | 70% passing score, open book, 4 hours |
Experience Substitutions
- Electronics courses from engineering technology or trade school = up to 6 months credit
Application Process
- Create account in GOALS portal (paper applications not accepted)
- Submit application with documentation
- Provide 3 reference letters
- Complete background check
- Receive Board approval for exam
- Schedule and pass examination
- Pay fees and receive license
Contact Information
Georgia State Board of Low Voltage Contractors
Phone: (404) 424-9966 | Toll-Free: (844) 753-7825
Email: plb@sos.ga.gov
Board of Private Detective and Security Agencies
If your alarm business includes security services beyond installation, additional licensing through the Board of Private Detective and Security Agencies may be required.
When This Applies
- Security guard services
- Patrol services
- Armed response
- Investigation services
Requirements
- $25,000 surety bond
- Fingerprint background check through GAPS
- 24 hours minimum classroom training (effective January 1, 2022)
- Company license from the Board
Unarmed Security Guards
Unarmed guards don't require individual registration with the Board, but must complete Board-standard training.
Building Permits
Building permit requirements vary by Georgia jurisdiction:
Generally Not Required
- Low voltage alarm systems
- Wireless alarm installations
- Residential retrofit work
May Be Required
- New construction (part of building permit)
- Commercial installations in some cities
- Fire alarm systems (may have separate requirements)
Major Cities
Atlanta
- License: State LV-A required
- Permits: Check with Atlanta Department of Buildings
- Alarm Registration: Customers may need to register with Atlanta PD
Other Cities
Verify local alarm registration requirements and permit needs with each jurisdiction.
Commercial vs Residential
Residential Burglar Alarm
- License: LV-A or LV-U required
- Permit: Usually not required
- Customer Registration: May be required locally for false alarm reduction
Commercial Burglar Alarm
- License: LV-A or LV-U required
- Permit: May be required
- UL Certification: May be required for certain applications
Best Practices
- Get LV-A or LV-U: Required for all alarm installation in Georgia
- Use GOALS portal: Paper applications not accepted
- Consider LV-U: If you also do general low voltage work
- Check security licensing: If offering guard or patrol services
- Inform customers: About local alarm registration requirements
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need both LV-A and security agency licensing?
LV-A covers installation. If you also provide guard services, patrol, or armed response, you need licensing from the Board of Private Detective and Security Agencies.
Can I install fire alarms with an LV-A license?
Yes, the LV-A license covers fire alarm systems. However, fire alarms may have additional requirements through the State Fire Marshal.
What about monitoring?
The LV-A license covers installation. Central station monitoring has separate considerations—verify requirements with the relevant boards.
Find Burglar Alarm Projects in Georgia
Looking for security system installation opportunities in Georgia? LVN Signal tracks construction permits and bids across the state, alerting you to projects the moment they're filed.
Last updated: February 2026. Verify current requirements with the Georgia State Board of Low Voltage Contractors.
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