🔴 License Required: Virginia requires multiple licenses for low voltage work - DPOR tradesman/contractor licenses for electrical work AND DCJS licenses for electronic security systems.

Electrical Tradesman License

Required for individuals performing electrical work including low voltage installations. Categories include Master Electrician, Journeyman Electrician, and Residential Electrician.

Electrical Contractor License

Required for businesses performing electrical contracting. Must have a designated employee holder (DEH) with appropriate tradesman license. Class A (unlimited), Class B ($120,000 limit), or Class C ($10,000 limit).

Electronic Security Business (ESB) License

Required for companies providing, installing, or servicing electronic security equipment including burglar alarms, surveillance cameras, access control systems, and related security technology.

Electronic Security Technician Registration

Required for individuals who install, service, or maintain electronic security equipment. Must complete training and pass background check.

Key Requirements:

• Dual Licensing: Both DPOR and DCJS licenses often required
• Project Value: Contractor license tiers based on value
• License Duration: 2 years for most licenses
• Statewide Authority: Valid throughout Virginia

DPOR-Regulated Low Voltage Work:

• Fire Alarm Systems: Installation and maintenance
• Communications Systems: Structured cabling, telecommunications
• Data Cabling: Network infrastructure
• Audio/Visual Systems: Commercial installations
• Control Wiring: Building automation systems
• Any hardwired low voltage: Connected to building power

DCJS-Regulated Electronic Security:

• Burglar Alarms: Installation and monitoring
• CCTV/Surveillance: Cameras and recording systems
• Access Control: Card readers, electronic locks
• Holdup Alarms: Panic button systems
• Intrusion Detection: Motion sensors, glass break detectors
• Security Integration: Combined security systems

Important Note:

Working on electronic security equipment without a DCJS license is illegal in Virginia. Selling or servicing surveillance equipment requires proper licensing.

• Experience: 4 years (8,000 hours) under master electrician
• Education: 240 hours of classroom instruction
• Examination: Pass journeyman exam
• Continuing Education: 3 hours required for renewal

• Physical Address: Virginia location required
• Compliance Agent: Certified individual designated
• Insurance: $1,000,000 general liability minimum
• Background Check: Fingerprints required
• Display Requirements: License number on all advertising

DPOR Fees:

• Tradesman Application: $130
• Contractor License: $175-$330 depending on class
• Renewal: $130-$185 (biennial)

DCJS Fees:

• ESB License: $500 initial, includes one category
• Additional Categories: $75 each
• Technician Registration: $50
• Insurance Required: $1,000,000 general liability

• New Residential Licenses: Starting April 1, 2025, new residential-only HVAC and plumbing licenses with reduced requirements
• DCJS Extensions: Credentials expiring Dec 2024-Feb 2025 extended to March 31, 2025
• Limited Credentials: Additional extension through late July 2025

• Business Licenses: Required in all cities and counties
• Permits: Building permits required for most installations
• Northern Virginia: Additional requirements in Arlington, Fairfax, Alexandria
• Hampton Roads: Norfolk, Virginia Beach have specific regulations
• Fire Marshal Approval: Required for fire alarm systems

Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation (DPOR)
9960 Mayland Drive, Suite 400
Richmond, VA 23233
Phone: (804) 367-8511 (Tradesmen)
Phone: (804) 367-2785 (Contractors)
Email: tradesmen@dpor.virginia.gov
Website: www.dpor.virginia.gov

Department of Criminal Justice Services (DCJS)
1100 Bank Street
Richmond, VA 23219
Phone: (804) 786-4700
Website: www.dcjs.virginia.gov

Disclaimer: This information is provided for general guidance only and should not be considered legal advice. Virginia has complex dual-agency requirements for low voltage work. Always verify current requirements with both DPOR and DCJS before beginning work. Requirements may vary by locality. Last updated: January 2025.