How much does a Low Voltage Systems Contractor license cost in California?

The estimated total cost is $700, including application fees, and education costs.

How long does it take to get a Low Voltage Systems Contractor license in California?

The process typically takes 4-6 years, depending on education completion and exam scheduling.

What exam do I need for a Low Voltage Systems Contractor license in California?

You need to pass the CSLB C-10 Electrical Contractor Exam. N/A

Low Voltage Systems Contractor License in California

California does not license individual electricians at the state level — only Electrical Contractors (C-10 classification) through the CSLB. Individual electricians work under licensed contractors. To become a C-10 contractor, you need 4 years of journey-level experience and must pass trade and business exams. Estimated contractor licensing costs are approximately $700.

Exam: CSLB C-10 Electrical Contractor Exam
Total Cost: $700 (est.)
Timeline: 4-6 years
Renewal: Every 2 years

Requirements

Low Voltage Systems Contractor license in California

gold

Veterans Benefits

N/A - Not displayed

Estimated Costs Est.

Application Fee: $330
Renewal Fee: $360
Total Estimated Cost: $700

Licensing Agency

Department of Consumer Affairs~Contractors State License Board

Website 8003212752 Email

Cost Breakdown

Estimated costs for getting your Low Voltage Systems Contractor license in California. Values marked "Est." are extracted from official descriptions.

Application Fee

$330

Renewal Fee

$360

Total Estimated Cost

$700

Education / School Cost

Enter the cost of your pre-licensing education program

Include first renewal fee ($360)

Application FeeEst.$330

Total Estimated Cost$330

Fees marked "Est." are extracted from official descriptions and may not reflect current pricing. Verify with the California licensing board.

Low Voltage Systems Contractor Salary in California

Entry Level

$46,630

Median

$76,540

Experienced

$136,710

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics. Salary data is for informational purposes only.

How to Get Licensed

Step-by-step roadmap to becoming a licensed Low Voltage Systems Contractor in California.

1

Submit Your Application

File your application with the licensing agency. Application fee: ~$330.
2

Receive Your License

Processing typically takes 4-6 years.

Low Voltage Systems Contractor Licensing in California: What to Know

California does NOT license individual journeyman or master electricians at the state level. Instead, the Contractors State License Board (CSLB) licenses Electrical Contractors under the C-10 classification. Individual electricians work under a licensed contractor's supervision. To become a C-10 contractor, applicants need 4 years of journey-level experience and must pass both a trade exam and a law/business exam. Local jurisdictions (cities and counties) may have their own certification programs for individual electricians. This contractor-based system is a significant difference from most other states and is a critical point for those relocating to California.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a Low Voltage Systems Contractor license cost in California?: The estimated total cost is $700, including application fees, and education costs.
How long does it take to get a Low Voltage Systems Contractor license in California?: The process typically takes 4-6 years, depending on education completion and exam scheduling.
What exam do I need for a Low Voltage Systems Contractor license in California?: You need to pass the CSLB C-10 Electrical Contractor Exam. N/A