Low-voltage licensing
South Carolina
South Carolina requires Contractor licensing through the LLR Contractor's Licensing Board for commercial projects over $5,000. The ELE (Electrical) classification covers full electrical including low-voltage. Burglar Alarm and Fire Alarm work falls under the separate Burglar Alarm and Fire Alarm System Contractors Board. Residential low-voltage work falls under the SC Residential Builders Commission.
Regulatory agency
South Carolina LLR - Contractor's Licensing Board
License classifications
The license types relevant to low-voltage work in South Carolina.
ELE - Electrical Contractor
Full electrical including all low-voltage scope. Required for commercial projects over $5,000.
Exam requiredBAS / FAS - Burglar Alarm / Fire Alarm Specialty
Burglar and fire alarm installation. Issued by the separate Burglar Alarm and Fire Alarm System Contractors Board.
Exam required
State-wide requirements
- Workers' compensation
- Required if you have employees
- Renewal cycle
- Every 2 years
Common pitfalls
Mistakes we see installers make when navigating South Carolina licensing.
- South Carolina splits residential and commercial onto two different boards. Doing both = holding licenses from both Contractor's Licensing Board AND Residential Builders Commission.
- Alarm work (BAS / FAS) is on a third board. A common mistake is assuming the ELE Electrical license includes alarm scope - it does not.
- Bid limits are tied to financial statements. Going over your stated bid limit on a single project invalidates the license for that job.
Sources
- South Carolina LLR Contractor's Licensing Board
- SC Burglar Alarm and Fire Alarm System Contractors Board
- SC Residential Builders Commission
Last verified May 23, 2026. See something out of date? Email us.
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Disclaimer: This page summarizes public regulatory information for the convenience of low-voltage installers. It is not legal advice. State requirements change. Always verify current rules with the state agency before applying for, renewing, or relying on a license.