Low Voltage License Massachusetts
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Complete guide to Massachusetts Systems Contractor and Systems Technician licensing requirements for low voltage installations
Massachusetts Low Voltage Systems Contractor License Requirements
🟢 Systems License Required: Massachusetts requires Systems Contractor (Class C) or Systems Technician (Class D) licenses for fire warning and security systems installation.
Current Requirements (2024-2025)
License Classifications
Massachusetts regulates low voltage work through Systems Contractor and Systems Technician licenses administered by the Board of State Examiners of Electricians:
- Systems Technician (Class D): Individual installation and maintenance of fire warning and security systems
- Systems Contractor (Class C): Business license to supervise systems work, employ technicians, and apply for permits
- Coverage: Fire alarm systems, burglar alarms, security systems, access control systems, CCTV
- Licensing Authority: Massachusetts Board of State Examiners of Electricians
Systems Technician (Class D) Requirements
To qualify for the Systems Technician examination:
Class D License Requirements:
- Experience: 4,000 hours of practical experience (minimum 2 years) under licensed Systems Technician or Journeyman Electrician
- Education: 300 hours of Board-approved education
- Code Update Course: 15-hour continuing education course
- Exam Score: Minimum 70% on both exam parts
- Individual Work Only: Cannot apply for permits or supervise others
Systems Contractor (Class C) Requirements
To qualify for the Systems Contractor examination:
Class C License Requirements:
- Prerequisites: Active Massachusetts Systems Technician (Class D) license
- Work Experience: Minimum one year as licensed Systems Technician
- Education: 75 hours of Board-approved electrical code instruction
- Exam Score: Minimum 70% on examination
- Business Authority: Can employ technicians, apprentices, and apply for permits
- Maximum Supervision: One apprentice per licensed technician
Examination Information
Systems Technician Exam (Class D):
- Part 1: 60 questions on NEC alarm requirements, fire detection, general electrical theory
- Part 2: 30 questions on electrical schematics, plans, and licensing laws
- Passing Score: 70% on both parts
Systems Contractor Exam (Class C):
- Format: Single exam with 50 questions
- Content: NEC alarm requirements, intrusion detection, fire detection and notification
- Passing Score: 70%
License Fees (2024-2025)
Systems Technician (Class D) Costs:
- PSI Processing Fee: $60
- Part 1 Exam Fee: $80
- Part 2 Exam Fee: $55
- License Fee: $155 (paid at test center upon passing)
- Total Cost: $350
Systems Contractor (Class C) Costs:
- PSI Processing Fee: $60
- Exam Fee: $81
- License Fee: $155 (paid at test center upon passing)
- Total Cost: $296
Application Process (2024-2025 Updates)
Important 2025 Changes:
- Online Applications Only: As of June 1, 2025, ALL applications must be submitted online to PSI
- No Paper/Email Applications: Mailed or emailed applications after May 31, 2025 will be returned
- 180-Day Hold: Incomplete applications held for 180 days maximum
Required Documentation
- Work Experience Forms: Verified by supervising licensed electrician
- Education Certificates: From Board-approved providers
- CORI Form: Criminal background check
- Continuing Education Certificate: 15-hour code update course
License Renewal Requirements
- Renewal Period: 3 years
- Continuing Education: 21 hours required (15 hours on Massachusetts Electrical Code)
- Systems Technician Renewal Fee: $78
- Systems Contractor Renewal Fee: $117
- Re-examination Fees: $135 for both exam portions if retaking
Additional Security Requirements
Security Clearance Certificate (S-License): Anyone installing security systems must obtain an additional Security Clearance Certificate from the Division of Professional Licensure Office of Public Safety and Inspections, in addition to the Board of Electricians license.
Licensing Authority Contact
Massachusetts Board of State Examiners of Electricians
1000 Washington Street, Suite 710
Boston, MA 02118-6100
Phone: (617) 701-8786
Email: electricians.board@mass.gov
Website: mass.gov/board-of-state-examiners-of-electricians-licensing
PSI Online Applications
As of June 1, 2025: All applications through PSI online portal
Website: mass.gov/how-to/apply-for-an-individual-electrical-or-systems-license
Approved Education Providers
Board-approved education must be completed before examination. Contact the Board for current approved providers or visit:
- Massachusetts Systems Contractors Association (MSCA)
- Peterson School - Systems Technician Class D prep courses
- Martin Electrical School - Systems training programs
Covered Systems
Massachusetts Systems licenses cover installation and maintenance of:
- Fire Alarm Systems: Detection, notification, and control devices
- Security Systems: Burglar alarms, intrusion detection
- Access Control Systems: Card readers, electronic locks, keypads
- Video Surveillance Systems: CCTV, security cameras
- Nurse Call Systems: Healthcare facility communication systems
- Audio/Visual Systems: Low voltage audio and visual installations
Legal Authority
- Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 141 - Board of State Examiners of Electricians
- 238 CMR - Massachusetts Electrical Code (based on NEC)
- 527 CMR 12.00 - Board of State Examiners of Electricians regulations
- Massachusetts Electrical Code - Class 2 and Class 3 circuit requirements
Important Massachusetts-Specific Considerations
- Dual Licensing: Security system installers need both electrical license AND security clearance
- Permit Requirements: Only Class C license holders can apply for electrical permits
- Supervision Limits: Maximum one apprentice per licensed technician
- Experience Verification: All 4,000 hours must be verified by licensed Massachusetts electrician
- 2025 Process Changes: Online-only applications effective June 1, 2025
Disclaimer: This information is for general guidance only and may not reflect the most current legal requirements. Massachusetts electrical licensing requirements can change with legislative updates and Board regulations. Process changes are scheduled for June 2025 regarding online applications. Always verify current requirements with the Massachusetts Board of State Examiners of Electricians before beginning any systems installation work. Requirements, fees, and procedures are subject to change.
Last updated: January 2025