Kentucky Low Voltage Contractor License Requirements

⚠️ No Statewide Low Voltage License: Kentucky does NOT require statewide licensing for low voltage work, but local jurisdictions may have requirements.

Current Requirements (2024)

No Statewide Low Voltage Licensing

Kentucky does NOT have statewide specialty licensing for low voltage work. The Kentucky Department of Housing, Buildings and Construction does not issue separate low voltage contractor licenses. Instead:

No state-level low voltage license required
Local jurisdictions may have varying requirements
General electrical licensing covers all electrical work
Telecommunications exemptions available for certain work

Kentucky Revised Statutes Exemptions

Under KRS § 227A.030, Kentucky provides specific exemptions including:

Telecommunications Exemption:

Low-voltage telecommunications systems installation and repair
Workers exempt from licensure for telecommunications work
Communications and signals for intelligence transmission by wire
Public service agencies may perform certain exempt work

Local Jurisdiction Requirements

Since Kentucky has no statewide specialty licensing, local jurisdictions determine their own requirements:

Municipal Variations:

Some jurisdictions: Offer lesser licenses for specific electrical work
Other jurisdictions: Require full master electrician license for any electrical work
No uniform requirements: Each municipality sets own standards
Contact required: Must verify requirements with local authority

General Electrical Licensing Framework

For work that does require licensing, Kentucky operates under these standards:

Electrical Contractor License: Required to contract with public and pull permits
Master Electrician: Each contractor must employ at least one
Journeyman Requirements: 6 years experience OR 4 years + 576 hours classroom
2017 NEC Standards: Current electrical code in effect
Dual Exam Options: State exam OR NASCLA Accredited Electrical Exam (2025)

Fire Alarm Systems Special Requirements

Fire alarm systems have specific provisions:

Chapter 9 Requirements: Fire alarm systems must comply with specific building code provisions
HBC Licensing: Department may require fire alarm contractor certification
Not Exempt: Fire alarm systems generally not covered by communications exemption

How to Determine Local Requirements

Required Steps:

Identify Jurisdiction: Determine city/county where work will be performed
Contact Local Authority: Check with municipal building/electrical department
Verify Lesser License: Ask if lesser license option available
Determine Requirements: If no lesser license, master electrician may be required
Check Exemptions: Verify if telecommunications exemption applies

State Contact Information

Kentucky Department of Housing, Buildings and Construction
Electrical Division
101 Sea Hero Drive, Suite 100
Frankfort, KY 40601
Phone: (502) 573-2002
Website: dhbc.ky.gov

Kentucky Revised Statutes
Chapter 227A - Electricians and Electrical Contractors
Website: apps.legislature.ky.gov

Historical Context

Kentucky previously enacted a statewide certification program for low-voltage installers around 2004, which provided exemptions for electronic life safety, security, and systems professionals from the Electrical License Law. However, current licensing appears to focus on local jurisdiction authority rather than statewide specialty licensing.

Important Kentucky-Specific Considerations

No Statewide Uniformity: Requirements vary dramatically by municipality
Telecommunications Work: Generally exempt from electrical licensing
Fire Alarms Exception: Fire alarm systems may require specific licensing
Local Authority Paramount: Municipal requirements override state exemptions
Verify Before Working: Always check local requirements first

Disclaimer: This information is for general guidance only and may not reflect the most current local requirements. Kentucky does not have statewide low voltage licensing, but local jurisdictions may have specific requirements that change frequently. Always verify current requirements with the specific city or county authority where you plan to work before beginning any electrical projects. Requirements, fees, and procedures vary significantly at the local level.

Last updated: January 2025

Low Voltage License Kentucky