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Maintaining a safe home is a top priority for virtually every homeowner, and alarm systems designed to alert residents to the presence of dangers like fire or intruders are the first line of defense in some cases.  

The professionals who install, service, and maintain these systems directly contribute to the safety of households and their inhabitants, so they must be properly trained and licensed. In the state of New York, all Alarm Contractors must obtain a Fire Alarm License from the New York City Division of Licensing Services. The requirements to acquire such a license are outlined below. 

Fire Alarm License Requirements

To obtain a Fire Alarm License, you must first be at least 18 years old and capable of showing proof of electronic fingerprinting by an approved vendor. You must also complete the state’s requirements for experience and education and submit proof of that as well. That includes 81 hours of suitable course instruction approved by the Department of State. 

Educational requirements consist of five modules, including four 15-hour modules and one 21-hour module, which are as follows: 

• Module 1: Installations: Standards, Codes, and Techniques 
• Module 2: Control Panels and Alarm Transmissions 
• Module 3: Security Systems 
• Module 4: Fire Technology 
• Module 5: Service and Maintenance of Alarm Systems 

In addition, there are attendance requirements for courses. Applicants must supply proof of attending a minimum of 12 hours for each 15-hour course and 18 hours for the 21-hour course. Missing too many hours of instruction will disqualify you from obtaining a license.  

Experience requirements include at least two years of experience (3,500 hours) installing, servicing, and/or maintaining fire alarm systems in the state. 

Licensed Master Electricians are permitted to obtain a Fire Alarm License with a waiver, which requires them to complete an application, pay fees, and submit proof of licensure and the jurisdictions in which they are licensed as a Master Electrician. They may apply for a Fire Alarm License that allows for operation within specified local jurisdictions or statewide. All other applicants are required to take a state exam to obtain a Fire Alarm License. 

Fire Alarm Exam

In addition to submitting documentation proving age, education, and experience, professionals who seek to obtain a Fire Alarm License must pass the Fire Alarm Installer Exam, an open-book, pass/fail test that consists of multiple-choice questions covering the following topics: 

• Basic electricity 
• Standards and codes 
• Control devices 
• Alarm transmissions 
• Motion detection 
• Perimeter systems 
• Access control 
• CCTV systems 
• Job planning 
• Fire technology 
• Job safety 

Any questions about standards and codes are based on NFPA standards, as well as the New York State Uniform Fire Prevention and Building Code. Test-takers will have 150 minutes to complete the exam. 

Preparing to Pass Your State Exam

The best way to pass your state exam on the first try is with an exam prep program designed for working professionals. You’ll want to look for a course that offers self-paced learning with 24/7 online access. 

If you’ve completed the education and experience requirements and you’re ready to obtain your New York Fire Alarm systems license, RocketCert has the reliable and convenient exam prep you need. Contact us today to learn more.