What Can You Do With a C-7 Contractors License?
The C-7 license is a California contractor classification for individuals or companies that specialize in low voltage electrical services.
There are a variety of services that can be offered if you have this license, including:
- Communications Services
- Telecommunications
- Information Technology
- Voip Phone Systems
- Audio & Video/Audio & Visual/Audio & Video Design
- Low Voltage Lights
- Telecom Services
- Integrated Systems
- TV Connection/Home Entertainment/Cabling Solutions
- Cable Installation
- Security Surveillance/Data & Security/Network Services
- Satellite & Television
- Systems Design/Cable communications
- Surround Sound Services/Phone & Wiring
- Voice & Data Networks
- Computers and Electronics
- Home Theaters, Home Automation, Yacht Automations
- Gate & Entry
- Cabling, building out floor plans, and fiber optics
- Business telephone systems
- Cloud computing
- Software trouble shooting
Low Voltage Contractors and the CSLB
The C-7 contractor's license is one of 73 classifications available in California. Contractors in the state of California are governed by the CSLB(Contractors State License Board)
There are 4 major classification categories:
Commonly referred to as the “C-7 or low voltage license”, this classification falls under the C-Specialty category.
Expanding your low voltage business in California
Contractors in California can hold multiple licenses. The most common pairings for the C-7 license are:

Requirements for California Low Voltage Contractors
To get a low voltage license you must meet the following basic requirements:
- 18 Years of Age
- 4 Years of Journeyman Level Experience
- Social Security or ITIN #
- Not Currently on Probation or Parole
- Signature from a licensed contractor, fellow employee, supervisor, or business associate
What low voltage electrical concepts do I need to know for the test?
There will be a variety of concepts covered on your exam.
Keep in mind you might be tested on areas of the electrical trade that you have no experience in.
It will be important to understand every possible concept covered on your trade exam. Below is a breakdown of what you need to know:
1. Job Planning and Design (19%)
- Interpret plans and specifications
- Plan wire routes and equipment locations
- Compliance with codes and industry standards
- Knowledge of impact on other trades
- Integration of new and existing infrastructure
2. Material Selection and Estimation (18%)
- Knowledge of materials and their applications
- Knowledge of tools and equipment and their applications
- Estimate project costs and prepare proposals
3. Wire/Cable Installation and Termination (11%)
- Layout, install, and support pathways
- Knowledge of tools and methods of termination
- Placement and termination of wires/cables
- Knowledge of labeling schemes for wires/cables
4. Systems Configuration and Installation (15%)
- Install equipment room components
- Install satellite, CCTV, telephone, data, instrumentation, battery systems, audio/ video, and fiber optic systems
- Install building automation
- IP networking and VoIP configuration
5. Testing and Project Closeout (12%)
- Tools and methods used to test the functioning of low voltage equipment
- Project closeout, documentation, and training
6. System Troubleshooting and/or Repair or replacement (8%)
- Troubleshoot various problems and make repairs/replacements
7. Safety (17%)
- Cal/OSHA regulations
- Identification of job site hazards
- Safe work practices
What's the C-7 exam process like?
The exam will be:
- 115 Questions Law & Business
- 115 Questions Low Voltage
- Multiple Choice
- Closed Book
- 3 Hours to Complete each section
- Taken via Computer at an Exam Facility
- Exam Centers all over the state of California
Math Skills
There will be math on your CSLB law & business and trade exams.
Questions will be presented to you as if you are a General Building Contractor with multiple projects running simultaneously with several employees.
You can expect math questions related to:
- Arithmetic
- Cost Estimation
- Calculating Square Footage
- Units of Measurement
- Percentages and Decimals
Blueprint Reading Skills
Blueprint reading is a fundamental skill for all contractors. Knowing how to interpret plans and is a key part of the job if you are working within a construction crew.
Some aspects of plan reading may also be your examination.
For a deeper look at blueprint reading concepts check out this free blueprint reading guide.
Preparing for Your CSLB law & business exam
Our complete C-7 contractor's license course breaks down all of the essential knowledge you need to be successful on your CSLB law & business examination.
In addition to passing your exam, those looking to get the low voltage license will be equipped with a crash course on how to run a profitable business.
You will learn:
- Company organization
- How to bid effectively
- Understanding cost control
- Various contract types
- Cash management
- Estimation fundamentals
- CAL/OSHA
- Business Structures
- Worker’s Compensation and Taxes
- Insurance Types in Construction
- Labor Laws and Employee Rights
- Hiring and Firing Practices
- Contractor Bonds
- Mechanics Liens
- State Laws and Statutes
- Project Management 101
- Prevailing Wages and Public Works
- And Much More!