North Carolina Burglar Alarm License Requirements: Complete Guide
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North Carolina requires dual licensing: SP-FA/LV from NC Board of Examiners for installation work, plus Alarm Systems Licensing Board registration for operating a business. Alarm license requires 2 years experience OR approved training certification.
North Carolina Burglar Alarm License Requirements: Complete Guide
North Carolina requires dual licensing for burglar alarm businesses: the SP-FA/LV electrical license from the NC Board of Examiners AND registration with the Alarm Systems Licensing Board. Here's what contractors need to know about both requirements.
Quick Answer
North Carolina requires an SP-FA/LV license (or higher) from the NC Board of Examiners of Electrical Contractors for alarm installation work. Additionally, operating an alarm business requires registration with the NC Alarm Systems Licensing Board, which requires 2 years of alarm experience OR approved training certification plus holding a valid NC electrical license.
Dual Licensing System
North Carolina has two separate licensing requirements for alarm contractors:
| License | Agency | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| SP-FA/LV | NC Board of Examiners of Electrical Contractors | Authorizes installation work |
| Alarm Systems License | NC Alarm Systems Licensing Board (DPS) | Authorizes operating alarm business |
SP-FA/LV Electrical License
The NC State Board of Examiners of Electrical Contractors issues the electrical license.
License Scope
The SP-FA/LV license covers:
- Burglar alarm systems
- Fire alarm systems
- Low voltage wiring (50V or less)
- Class II and Class III circuits
- Paging systems up to 70V
Requirements
- Board pre-approval required before exam
- Exam based on 2020 NEC (through July 2025+)
- Business law included in exam
Contact
NC Board of Examiners: (919) 733-9042 | ncbeec.org
Alarm Systems Licensing Board
The NC Alarm Systems Licensing Board under the Department of Public Safety regulates alarm businesses.
Who Needs This License
Anyone operating an alarm systems business in North Carolina, including:
- Burglar alarm installation companies
- Fire alarm contractors
- Alarm monitoring services
- Alarm sales and service businesses
Requirements
Low Voltage Experience:
Applicant or an employee must hold a valid NC Electrical Contractors License in one of these categories:
- Unlimited
- Limited
- Intermediate
- SP-Low Voltage (SP-FA/LV)
Burglar Alarm Experience (one of the following):
- 2 years experience in alarm installation, service, or business management within the past 5 years, OR
- Complete approved training within 1 year before application:
- Certified Alarm Technician Level I (National Electronic Security Association)
- Elite CEU's online training course
- Complete Electrical Academy's Level I training
Application Process
- Obtain SP-FA/LV (or higher) electrical license
- Document 2 years alarm experience OR complete approved training
- Submit application to Alarm Systems Licensing Board
- Receive business license
Contact
Alarm Systems Licensing Board: (919) 788-5320
Building Permits
Generally Not Required
- Low voltage alarm systems
- Wireless alarm installation
- Residential retrofit
May Be Required
- New construction
- Commercial projects in some jurisdictions
- Fire alarm systems (check with local fire marshal)
Local Requirements
Charlotte/Mecklenburg County
Check for local alarm registration and false alarm ordinances.
Raleigh/Wake County
May have alarm user registration requirements.
Other Areas
Many NC cities have false alarm reduction programs requiring customer registration.
Commercial vs Residential
Residential Burglar Alarm
- Electrical License: SP-FA/LV required
- Business License: Alarm Systems Licensing Board required
- Permit: Usually not required
- Customer Registration: Check local false alarm ordinances
Commercial Burglar Alarm
- Electrical License: SP-FA/LV required
- Business License: Alarm Systems Licensing Board required
- Permit: May be required
- UL Certification: May be required for certain applications
Best Practices
- Get both licenses: SP-FA/LV for installation + Alarm Systems License for business
- Keep training current: If using training pathway, complete within 1 year of application
- Inform customers: About local alarm registration requirements
- Check local requirements: Each city may have different permit needs
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need both licenses to install burglar alarms?
Yes. The SP-FA/LV authorizes the installation work. The Alarm Systems License authorizes operating the business. Both are required.
What if I only have the electrical license?
You cannot legally operate an alarm business without the Alarm Systems Licensing Board registration, even with a valid SP-FA/LV.
Can I use training instead of experience?
Yes. Completing approved training (NESA Level I, Elite CEU, or Complete Electrical Academy) within 1 year before application can substitute for the 2-year experience requirement.
Find Burglar Alarm Projects in North Carolina
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Last updated: February 2026. Verify requirements with NC Board of Examiners and Alarm Systems Licensing Board.
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