Loading...
Loading...
Low Voltage / Alarm Installer — LV
Total cost: $400-$1,100
Some details on this page are not yet confirmed against an official source. See sources below or contact the licensing board to verify.
Yes
License Required
Telecommunications (06A) Speci...
License Type
Yes
Separate from Electrician
Yes
Exam Required
Triennial (every 3 years)
Renewal Period
$400-$1,100
Total Initial Fees
Washington low voltage / alarm installer licensing details
VerifiedLicense Required
Yes
License Name
Telecommunications (06A) Specialty License (L&I)
License Type
state
Separate from Electrician License
Yes — Separate License
Scope of Work
Telecommunications and low voltage systems: data cabling, alarms, access control, sound, CCTV
Low voltage work typically includes security/alarm systems, fire alarm, structured cabling (data/voice/video), home automation, CCTV, access control, nurse call systems, and sound/intercom systems. Most states require a specific license separate from a standard electrician license.
Not sure if you need a low voltage installer license? Check whether your state requires one.
Education, Experience & Industry Certifications
Mostly verifiedEducation Required
No formal education requirement
Experience Required
4,000 hours of experience in telecommunications/low voltage work
Exam Required
Yes
Exam Details
06A Telecommunications Specialty examination administered by L&I
Industry Certifications
NICET (National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies) certifications are widely recognized in the low voltage industry. Fire Alarm Systems certification (Levels I-IV) is often required or preferred by employers and may satisfy some state licensing requirements. ESA (Electronic Security Association) certifications are also valuable for alarm installers.
Browse Low Voltage Installer study materials on Amazon →(affiliate link)
Insurance Coverage & Bonding
Mostly verifiedGeneral Liability
Recommended minimum $1,000,000 general liability coverage; many states require proof of GL insurance for licensure
Bonding Required
Varies by state; alarm contractors typically required to maintain $10,000-$50,000 surety bond
Workers' Compensation
Required in most states for employers; specific thresholds vary by state
Errors & Omissions
Errors and omissions insurance recommended for alarm monitoring and fire alarm contractors
Most states require low voltage and alarm contractors to carry general liability insurance (typically $1,000,000 minimum) and maintain a surety bond. Workers' compensation insurance is required for employers in most states. Alarm monitoring companies should also consider errors and omissions (E&O) insurance.
| Fee | Amount |
|---|---|
License Application Fee Washington Telecommunications (06A) Specialty License (L&I) application/license fee | $100-$300 |
Examination Fee Examination fee for Telecommunications (06A) Specialty License (L&I) | $100-$200 |
Business License Fee Approximate range for Washington business registration and licensing | $200-$600 |
Renewal Fee Renewal fee — Triennial (every 3 years) | $100-$250 |
Total Initial Fees Includes license application, exam (if required), and state business license fees. Does not include insurance or bonding costs. | $400-$1,100 |
Use our licensing cost calculator to estimate your total investment including education and exam fees.
Calculate your licensing ROI →
See how quickly your license investment pays for itself.
Renewal Requirements & Ongoing Obligations
Mostly verifiedTriennial (every 3 years)
Renewal Period
Required
Continuing Education
24 hours per renewal cycle
CE Hours
Regulatory Board
License renewal requirements vary by state. Many states require continuing education (CE) hours covering topics such as NEC code updates, fire alarm system standards (NFPA 72), and industry best practices. Failure to renew on time may result in license expiration and potential penalties. Always verify current renewal requirements with your state licensing authority.
Washington's 06A Telecommunications Specialty license from L&I covers a broad scope of low voltage work including data cabling, alarms, and access control.
Washington requires a Telecommunications (06A) Specialty License (L&I) for low voltage/alarm installation work.
This license is separate from a standard electrician license in Washington.
Low voltage work in Washington includes: Telecommunications and low voltage systems: data cabling, alarms, access control, sound, CCTV
NICET certifications (Fire Alarm Systems Levels I-IV) are widely recognized and may satisfy some state licensing requirements.
Alarm monitoring companies typically need a separate business license in addition to installer licensing.
Insurance requirements vary; verify current general liability and bonding requirements with Washington Department of Labor and Industries (L&I).
There is no interstate compact for low voltage installers.
Low Voltage Installer requirements in nearby states
See how Washington compares: Low Voltage Installer License Fees by State — Cheapest to Most Expensive →
Compare low voltage installer requirements across all states →
Low Voltage Installer licensing requirements nationwide →
Not sure low voltage installer is right for you? Find careers that match your situation →
How does Washington compare to other states for low voltage installer? See the full comparison →
Calculate the return on investment for your low voltage installer license →
Explore requirements for other professional licenses in Washington.
Low Voltage Installer Schools in Washington
Compare approved training programs, costs, and requirements.
Study guides for NICET fire alarm, security system, and low voltage licensing exams.
Browse Study Guides on Amazon →As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
Shop essential tools and supplies to get started in your career.
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
Not sure this is the right career? Take a 2-minute quiz →
Answer 6 quick questions and we'll match you with the best-fit licensed profession.
Low Voltage Installer requirements in Washington verified against Washington Department of Labor and Industries (L&I), March 2026.
Accessed 2025-01-15
Moving to Washington? Use our free Transfer Tool to see what you need →
Already licensed elsewhere? See how to transfer your Low Voltage Installer license to Washington →
Washington requires a Telecommunications (06A) Specialty License (L&I). A licensing exam is required. Scope includes: Telecommunications and low voltage systems: data cabling, alarms, access control, sound, CCTV. Licensing is administered by the Washington Department of Labor and Industries (L&I).
Requirements vary by state and locality. Always verify current requirements with your state licensing authority.