Michigan Low Voltage Contractor License Requirements

🟡 NO GENERAL, SPECIALIZED FOR FIRE/SECURITY: Michigan requires specialized licensing for fire alarm and security systems.

Current Requirements (2024-2025)

Michigan does not require a general statewide low voltage contractor license. Instead, the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA) regulates specific specialized systems through targeted licensing programs, while general electrical work falls under traditional electrical contractor licensing.

Specialized System Licensing

Fire Alarm Specialty Technician License

Required for installation, service, and maintenance of fire alarm systems. Regulated by LARA under the electrical specialty license program with specific NICET certification requirements.

Security Alarm Contractor License

Required for security and burglar alarm system installation and monitoring services. Regulated separately through LARA with specific experience and examination requirements.

Fire Alarm License Requirements:

Age Requirement: Must be at least 20 years old
NICET Certification: Associate Engineering Technician Level II or equivalent in Fire Alarm Systems
Examination: Pass LARA fire alarm specialty examination
Continuing Education: 15 hours required for license renewal
Updated Exams: All FAS exams updated as of March 25, 2024
Electronic Applications: Processed through NICET portal system

General Electrical Work

Traditional Electrical Licensing

Electrical Contractor License: Required for general electrical contracting business
Master Electrician Requirement: Must employ full-time master electrician
Journeyman Electrician: 8,000 hours experience, age 20+, pass examination
Master Electrician: 12,000 hours experience, age 22+, pass examination
Out-of-State Contractors: Must employ master electrician residing in Michigan

Systems and Work Covered

Requires Specialized Licensing:

Fire Alarm Systems: Detection, notification, and suppression systems
Security Systems: Burglar alarms, intrusion detection
Monitoring Services: Alarm monitoring and response services

May Require Electrical Contractor License:

CCTV Systems: Video surveillance installations
Access Control: Electronic locks and card readers
Intercom Systems: Communication and paging systems
Network/Data Cabling: Structured cabling installations
Audio/Visual: Sound systems and video distribution
Building Automation: HVAC and lighting controls

Generally Exempt (Check Local):

Telecommunications: Telephone system installations
Low Power Systems: Systems under specified voltage/power limits
Communication Circuits: Data and voice communications

NICET Certification Details

Fire Alarm Systems Certification

Certification Levels: Four levels available (I-IV)
Required Level: Associate Engineering Technician Level II minimum
Coverage Areas: System layout, equipment selection, installation, testing
Technical Areas: Codes/standards, detectors, signaling, supervision, power
Updated Process: Electronic applications through NICET portal

2024-2025 Updates and Changes

Recent Updates:

Updated Fire Alarm Exams: All FAS examinations updated March 25, 2024
Electronic Processing: Applications now processed through NICET portal
Continuing Education: 15-hour requirement maintained for specialty licenses
Code Updates: Alignment with current electrical codes and standards
Enhanced Enforcement: Increased compliance monitoring by LARA

Local Jurisdiction Considerations

Statewide Jurisdiction List: Regularly updated due to changes in code enforcement authority
Local Permits: Many municipalities require electrical permits for low voltage work
Code Enforcement: May be conducted by state, county, or local government
Business Licenses: Local business registration often required
Building Permits: May be required depending on installation scope

Financial Requirements

Licensing Costs:

Fire Alarm License: Application and examination fees through LARA
Security Alarm License: Separate application and examination fees
NICET Certification: Certification fees paid directly to NICET
Continuing Education: Course fees for 15-hour requirement
Electrical Contractor: License fees if pursuing general electrical work
Local Permits: Variable fees for municipal permits

Business Structure Options

Michigan specialty and electrical licenses may be issued to:

Individual contractors (sole proprietorship)
Partnerships
Limited Liability Companies (LLC)
Corporations (must employ Michigan-resident master electrician)

Note: Out-of-state corporations must employ a master electrician residing in Michigan to qualify for electrical contractor licensing.

Legal Authority

Michigan Compiled Laws Chapter 339 - Occupational Code electrical licensing
MCL Section 339.5737 - Electrical contractor licensing requirements
Michigan Electrical Code - Technical standards and permit requirements
LARA Electrical Administrative Board Rules - General licensing rules
Act 217 - Contains requirements for permitting and inspection

Recommended Approach

Fire/Security Work: Obtain appropriate specialty license through LARA
General Low Voltage: Consider electrical contractor license or work under licensed contractor
Local Research: Check municipality-specific permit requirements
NICET Certification: Pursue certification early in career for fire alarm work
Professional Development: Stay current with continuing education requirements

Contact Information

Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA)
Bureau of Construction Codes
P.O. Box 30254
Lansing, MI 48909
Phone: (517) 241-9313
Website: michigan.gov/lara

National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technology (NICET)
1420 King Street
Alexandria, VA 22314
Phone: (888) 476-4238
Website: nicet.org

Renewal and Continuing Education

Fire Alarm License: Regular renewal with 15 hours continuing education
Security License: Separate renewal requirements and continuing education
NICET Certification: Maintenance requirements through NICET
Electrical Contractor: Standard electrical license renewal cycle
Local Updates: Monitor changes in local enforcement jurisdiction

Disclaimer: This information is provided for general guidance only and should not be considered legal advice. Michigan low voltage work requirements vary by system type and local jurisdiction. Requirements may change, and specific situations may require additional licensing or permits. Always consult with LARA and local building departments for current requirements and compliance guidance. Last updated: January 2025.

Last updated: January 2025

Low Voltage License Michigan