🔴 License Required: New Jersey requires specific licenses for alarm systems and electrical work. There is NO separate "low voltage" license - work requires either electrical contractor license or specific system licenses.

Electrical Contractor License

Required for most electrical work including hardwired low voltage systems. New Jersey does not offer limited or specialty electrical licenses - only a full electrical contractor license.

Fire Alarm License

Specific license for fire alarm system installation and maintenance. Regulated by the Fire Alarm, Burglar Alarm and Locksmith Advisory Committee.

Burglar Alarm License

Required for burglar alarm and electronic security system installation. Separate application from fire alarm license but under same committee.

Telecommunications Wiring Exemption

Limited exemption for voice and data transmission wiring only. Does NOT authorize general "low voltage" electrical work. Defined in N.J.A.C. 13:31-4.1(b).

Key Requirements:

• No "Low Voltage" License: NJ has no limited electrical licenses
• System-Specific Licenses: Fire and burglar alarms require separate licenses
• License Duration: 3 years for electrical, varies for alarms
• Statewide Authority: Valid throughout New Jersey

Electrical Contractor License Required:

• Hardwired Systems: Any low voltage connected to building power
• Control Wiring: Building automation, HVAC controls
• Landscape Lighting: Low voltage outdoor lighting
• Audio/Visual Systems: Commercial installations
• Access Control: When integrated with electrical systems

Fire/Burglar Alarm License Required:

• Fire Detection Systems: Smoke detectors, heat sensors, pull stations
• Burglar Alarms: Intrusion detection, motion sensors
• Electronic Security: CCTV, surveillance systems
• Panic/Holdup Alarms: Emergency alert systems
• Central Station Monitoring: Connected alarm systems

Telecommunications Exemption (Limited Scope):

Only covers wiring for voice and/or data transmission at voltages compatible with the system being installed and connected to an FCC-recognized communication network. Includes:

• Telephone wiring
• Data cabling (Cat 5/6/7)
• Computer network interconnections
• Fiber optic installations

• Experience: 5 years as journeyman electrician
• Education: High school diploma or equivalent
• Business Structure: Must establish business entity
• Insurance: Liability insurance required

• Age: Minimum 18 years old
• Education: High school diploma or GED
• Background: No disqualifying criminal convictions in last 10 years
• Training: 80 hours initial education for burglar alarms

Fees and Insurance:

• Electrical Contractor Application: $150
• Electrical License Fee: $270 (3 years)
• Fire Alarm License: $100 initial
• Burglar Alarm License: $100 initial
• Examination Fees: $75-$115 per exam
• General Liability Insurance: Required (amount varies)
• Workers' Compensation: Required if employees

• Municipal Permits: Required for most installations
• Local Business Registration: Required in all municipalities
• Fire Marshal Approval: Required for fire alarm systems
• Major Cities: Newark, Jersey City, Paterson may have additional requirements
• Inspection Requirements: Vary by municipality

Board of Examiners of Electrical Contractors
124 Halsey Street, 6th Floor
Newark, NJ 07101
Phone: (973) 504-6410
Email: askconsumeraffairs@dca.njoag.gov
Website: www.njconsumeraffairs.gov/elec

Fire Alarm, Burglar Alarm and Locksmith Advisory Committee
124 Halsey Street, 6th Floor
Newark, NJ 07101
Phone: (973) 504-6370
Website: www.njconsumeraffairs.gov/fbl

Disclaimer: This information is provided for general guidance only and should not be considered legal advice. New Jersey has no dedicated "low voltage" license - work requires either electrical contractor license, specific system licenses, or falls under limited exemptions. Always verify current requirements with the appropriate licensing board and local authorities before beginning work. Last updated: January 2025.