Low Voltage License Arkansas
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Complete guide to Arkansas low voltage licensing requirements and application process
Arkansas Low Voltage Contractor License Requirements
Arkansas requires electrical contractor licensing for most low voltage work, with some exemptions for specific systems.
Licensing Overview
The Arkansas Department of Labor and Licensing oversees electrical contractor licensing. Low voltage work generally falls under electrical contracting regulations.
License Types
- Master Electrician: Can pull permits and supervise all electrical work
- Journeyman Electrician: Can perform electrical work under supervision
- Residential Journeyman: Limited to residential work
- Electrical Contractor: Business license for electrical contracting
Low Voltage Work Classifications
Work Requiring License
- Fire alarm systems
- Security systems connected to power
- Access control systems
- Nurse call systems
- Any system requiring connection to building power
Exempted Work
The following may not require an electrical license:
- Telephone and data cabling (Category 5/6)
- Coaxial cable for cable TV
- Sound systems under 70 volts
- Antenna installations
- Work performed by utilities on their own systems
Master Electrician Requirements
- 4 years (8,000 hours) of electrical experience
- Pass master electrician examination
- Submit application with $100 fee
- Provide proof of experience
Journeyman Electrician Requirements
- Complete 4-year apprenticeship program OR
- 8,000 hours of on-the-job training under licensed electrician
- Pass journeyman examination
- Submit application with $50 fee
Electrical Contractor License
To operate as an electrical contractor in Arkansas:
- Employ at least one master electrician
- Obtain electrical contractor license
- Provide proof of liability insurance ($500,000 minimum)
- Worker's compensation insurance (if applicable)
- Pay annual license fee
Examination Information
Examinations cover:
- National Electrical Code (NEC)
- Arkansas state amendments
- Electrical theory
- Safety practices
- Low voltage systems and controls
Exams are administered by PSI Services at various testing centers throughout Arkansas.
Continuing Education
- 6 hours required annually for license renewal
- Must include NEC code updates
- Courses must be approved by the state
Reciprocity
Arkansas has reciprocity agreements with several states:
- Alabama
- Louisiana
- Mississippi
- Oklahoma
- Tennessee
- Texas
Reciprocal applicants must provide proof of current license and may need to pass Arkansas-specific exam.
Local Permits
Most Arkansas cities and counties require permits for electrical work, including low voltage installations. Major cities with additional requirements include:
- Little Rock
- Fort Smith
- Fayetteville
- Springdale
- Jonesboro
Resources
- Arkansas Department of Labor and Licensing
- Arkansas Electrical Code Rules
- PSI Examination Services - Arkansas
This information is provided as a general guide. Requirements may change, and local jurisdictions may have additional regulations. Always verify current requirements with the Arkansas Department of Labor and Licensing and local authorities before beginning work.