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For those interested in becoming a low-voltage contractor (or limited-energy, as the field is referred to in Florida), applying for licensure is a necessary step, but there are a plethora of criteria you must meet beforehand. 

Below, familiarize yourself with the type of licenses you can receive in Florida, as well as the education, work experience, and testing that are necessary to obtain a license in the state. 

Type of Licenses and Scope of Work

Contractors in Florida may possess two distinct types of licenses:

• Registered License: Denotes that the license holder has not completed the state exam and can only work in local municipalities where they hold a certificate of competency
• Certified License: Denotes that the license holder has taken and passed the state licensure exams and may work in any city or county in the state of Florida

Any limited-energy system contractor in Florida is able to design, install, and repair electrical wiring, fiber optics, raceways, conduit, appliances, thermostats, and other apparatuses. However, no part of any of these devices should exceed 98 volts or be part of an alarm system.

Steps to Obtain Your Limited-Energy Contractor License

All applicants must first provide a personal credit report and financial statement proving they have a positive net worth and proof of minimum liability insurance coverage. Additionally, a business credit report and a financial statement showing that their business possesses a net worth of at least $5,000 are also required to ensure its financial stability.

Once your finances are in order, register to take the Limited Energy Specialty Contractor Exam. With 100 questions and a time limit of five hours, the exam covers the following topics:

• General electrical theory and principles
• Plan, schematics, and diagram interpretation
• Wiring methods and materials
• How to test and use critical tools and equipment
• OSHA and other safety regulations
• Americans with Disabilities Act

You will also need to take the Business Examination, a 120-question test with a two-and-a-half-hour time limit covering everything from bidding on jobs and scheduling contracts to insurance, accounting, cash flow, and personnel management. 

Both exams are open book, require pre-approval from the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR), and require a score of at least 70% to pass. 

In addition to the financial obligations and exam requirements, you must also meet work experience criteria by demonstrating one of the following qualities:

1. Three years of electrical contracting management experience within the last six years
2. Four years of foreman, supervisor, or contractor experience within the last eight years
3. Six years of education and training with an electrical or alarm contracting business or the Armed Forces within the last 12 years
4. Three years of electrical engineer licensure within the last 12 years
5. Six years of combined experience in criteria one through three within the last 12 years

Once you have passed your examinations and proven your experience, you may apply for licensure with the Florida DBPR.

Exam Prep for Maximum Success

While preparing for the comprehensive exams that are required to obtain a license may seem daunting, comprehensive and effective test preparation can help you get the job done.

With that being said, RocketCert offers books and in-depth courses written and taught by industry professionals who know what it takes to succeed. Contact us today to learn more about how our exam prep materials can help you obtain your limited-energy contractor license in Florida.