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These days, skilled electricians are in high demand, and one of the most exciting paths into the sought-after industry is through power-limited technician (PLT) licensure. PLTs fill a specialized niche that those interested in working with low-voltage systems can pursue to break into the industry and get the chance to do something they love. 

Below, learn how you can make PLT licensure a reality.

Power-Limited Technician Work Scope and Licensing Requirements

PLTs get the chance to work with low-voltage systems, the wide majority of which power people’s everyday lives and provide the security, convenience, and communications benefits to which we’ve all become accustomed. These systems include everything from fire and security alarms to CCTV surveillance to intercoms, garage doors, and Voice over internet Protocol (VoIP) phone systems. 

Furthermore, a PLT can install, repair, plan, alter, or layout electrical wiring, apparatuses, or other equipment for these systems or supervise others performing similar jobs. 

In order to be authorized to do any of the above, however, an individual must obtain a power-limited technician license issued by the Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry (DLI), and to receive your license, you must do the following: 

• Garner 36 months of work experience installing, maintaining, and repairing low-voltage systems and equipment
• Submit a notarized application complete with paid fees to the Minnesota DLI
• Obtain an approval letter to schedule a licensing exam
• Schedule and take the Minnesota Power-Limited Technician Exam

Up to two years of work experience will be credited to those who attend and complete a two-year electrical course (or another training program approved by the Minnesota DLI) after graduating high school.

What the Power Limited Technician Exam Entails

Anyone looking to obtain a power-limited technician license in Minnesota must take the Minnesota Power-Limited Technician Exam. The test is lengthy, consisting of 80 questions that applicants must complete under a time limit of five-and-a-half hours. Together, the exam’s 80 questions encompass ten separate categories, which are as follows:

• General knowledge
• Wiring methods and materials
• Wiring protection
• General use equipment
• Special occupancies
• Special equipment
• Special conditions
• Working with communications equipment
• Tables
• Applied electrical theory, electrical systems, and equipment

Though the Minnesota PLT Exam is an open-book test, individuals must score a grade of 70% or higher to successfully pass and obtain their license.

Make Exam Preparation a Priority

Minnesota is serious about making sure that its up-and-coming PLTs are fully prepared to work to the best of their ability. For that reason, it’s in your best interests to ensure that you set yourself up to meet these rigorous requirements, and that all starts with good test prep. 

RocketCert offers best-in-class education and materials designed by industry experts to help you pass your exam on the first try. You’ll have access to an online course and a bundle of books and references that will allow you to make the most of your test prep.

Contact RocketCert today to see how we can help you take the next step toward a successful future as a licensed Minnesota power-limited technician.