Alaska Low Voltage Contractor License Requirements

🔴 License Required: Alaska requires an Electrical Administrator license for low voltage controls work (48 volts or less). Some signaling systems are excluded but still subject to inspection.

Current Requirements (2024-2025)

Alaska's Department of Commerce, Community and Economic Development regulates electrical administrators, including those working with low voltage controls. The state has specific licensing categories for different types of electrical work, with the Controls and Control Wiring (CNTL) category covering low voltage systems.

Controls and Control Wiring (CNTL) License

This specialized electrical administrator license is required for installing low voltage controls of 48 volts or less. Uniquely, this license requires holding a mechanical administrator license as a prerequisite.

Key Requirements:

Voltage Threshold: 48 volts or less
Prerequisite: Mechanical administrator license (4 years)
License Duration: 2 years (expires Dec 31 of odd years)
Statewide Authority: Valid throughout Alaska

Important Exclusions (AS 08.40.190)

Work Excluded from Licensing (But Still Inspected):

Fire Alarm Systems: 48 volts to ground or less
Intrusion Alarm Systems: 48 volts to ground or less
Other Low Voltage Signaling: 48 volts to ground or less
Telecommunications: Utility-owned systems
Railroad Signaling: Railway company systems

Note: While excluded from licensing, this work must still comply with regulations and is subject to inspection under AS 08.40.070.

Important Distinction:

The difference between "48 volts or less" (requiring CNTL license) and "48 volts to ground or less" (excluded from licensing) is legally significant. Controls work generally requires licensing, while certain signaling systems may be exempt.

License Requirements - CNTL Administrator

Experience Requirements

Mechanical Administrator: Must hold for at least 4 years
Journeyman Experience: 2 years installing low voltage controls (48V or less)
Management Experience: 2 years construction management in low voltage control wiring
Total Experience: Minimum 8 years combined

Other Electrical Administrator Categories

Unlimited (UNLTD): All electrical work, requires master electrician
Residential (RESI): Single/two-family dwellings
Lineworker (LINE): Utility transmission and distribution
CNTL: Controls and control wiring (48V or less)

Examination Requirements

Trade Exam: Specific to CNTL category
Code Reference: National Electrical Code (current edition)
Alaska Regulations: State-specific requirements
Format: Computer-based testing
Testing Provider: PSI Services
Passing Score: 70% minimum

Financial Requirements

Fees and Insurance:

Application Fee: $350
License Fee: $125 (biennial)
Examination Fee: $100
Renewal Fee: $280 (biennial)
Insurance: General liability recommended
Surety Bond: May be required by municipalities

Continuing Education

Requirement: 8 hours every 2 years
Content: Current National Electrical Code updates
Safety Standards: Industry best practices
Documentation: Proof required for renewal
Approved Providers: List available from Department

Systems and Work Covered

CNTL License Authorized Work:

HVAC Controls: Building automation systems
Industrial Controls: Process control systems
Energy Management: Building control systems
Lighting Controls: Low voltage control systems
Motor Controls: 48 volts or less
Instrumentation: Industrial measurement and control

Legal Authority

Alaska Statutes Title 8, Chapter 40: Electrical and Mechanical Administrators
AS 08.40.005: Electrical administrator license required
AS 08.40.190: Exclusions from licensing
AS 08.40.070: Inspection requirements
12 AAC 32: Electrical Administrators Regulations

Reciprocity

Alaska offers limited reciprocity for electrical administrators:

Must demonstrate equivalent licensing standards
Washington State reciprocity agreement in place
Experience verification required
May need to pass Alaska-specific exam portions

Local Jurisdiction Considerations

Municipality of Anchorage: Additional permits required
Fairbanks: Local business license needed
Juneau: City inspection requirements
Remote Areas: Special considerations for bush communities
Military Bases: Federal requirements may supersede

Contact Information

Alaska Department of Commerce, Community & Economic Development
Division of Corporations, Business & Professional Licensing
P.O. Box 110806
Juneau, AK 99811-0806
Phone: (907) 465-2550
Fax: (907) 465-2974
Email: electricaladministrator@alaska.gov
Website: commerce.alaska.gov

Renewal Information

License Term: 2 years
Expiration: December 31 of odd-numbered years
Continuing Education: 8 hours required
Online Renewal: Available through MyLicense Alaska
Late Renewal: Penalties apply after expiration

Disclaimer: This information is provided for general guidance only and should not be considered legal advice. The distinction between work requiring CNTL licensing and excluded work can be complex. Always verify current requirements with the Alaska Department of Commerce and local authorities before beginning work. Last updated: January 2025.

Last updated: January 2025

Low Voltage License Alaska