Low-voltage licensing
Tennessee
Tennessee requires Contractor licensing through the Department of Commerce and Insurance, Board for Licensing Contractors. The CE (Electrical) classification covers full electrical including low-voltage. The LV (Limited Voltage / Low-Voltage) specialty classification specifically covers low-voltage scope under 50 volts. A separate Alarm Systems Contractors license through the Department of Commerce and Insurance is required for monitored burglar / fire alarm work.
Regulatory agency
Tennessee Board for Licensing Contractors
License classifications
The license types relevant to low-voltage work in Tennessee.
CE - Electrical Contractor
Full electrical work including all low-voltage scope. Required for projects over $25,000.
Exam requiredLV - Limited Voltage / Low-Voltage Specialty
Low-voltage signaling, communications, sound, intercom, security under 50 volts. Used by installers who don't need full electrical scope.
Exam required
State-wide requirements
- Workers' compensation
- Required
- Renewal cycle
- Every 2 years
Common pitfalls
Mistakes we see installers make when navigating Tennessee licensing.
- The contractor licensing threshold is $25,000 - smaller jobs may not require a CE license, but alarm work always requires the separate Alarm Systems Contractors license regardless of project size.
- Tennessee requires a financial statement from a CPA showing the contractor's monetary limit. Your license is capped at the financial number; bidding above your monetary limit invalidates the license on that job.
- Memphis, Nashville, Knoxville, and Chattanooga each add local permits and inspection requirements on top of the state license.
Sources
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 See something out of date?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.