How to Get a License

An alarm systems contractor refers to any person, firm, association, or corporation that sells or attempts to sell, installs, services, or monitors alarm systems, signal devices, fire alarms, burglar alarms, television cameras, or still cameras used to detect fire, burglary, breaking or entering, intrusion, shoplifting, pilferage, or theft.

To obtain certification as an alarm systems contractor, a company must apply and employ a licensed "Designated Qualifying Agent" in a management role. The company and Designated Qualifying Agent must both hold the same classifications to provide those services.

Classifications: Fire Alarm Systems, Burglar Alarm Systems, Monitoring, and Closed Circuit Television (CCTV)

Application & Fees

Complete the “Initial Tennessee Alarm Systems Contractor Company Application” online at core.tn.gov. The fee for an initial application is $500, plus $50 per classification.

The following will need to be included with your application:

• City/County Business Tax Licenses
• Certificate of Insurance that meets the requirements of T.C.A. 62-32-315
• Application for certification with the notarized signature of a qualified agent.
• Disclose any individuals or entities owning 10% or more interest, including background checks if required.

The State of Tennessee does not have reciprocal agreements with other states at this time.

Qualifying Agents supervise alarm systems contractor operations, including selling, installing, servicing, or monitoring alarm systems. A Designated Qualifying Agent is the individual responsible for compliance with state law, appointed by the certified contractor.

Classifications: Fire Alarm Systems, Burglar Alarm Systems, Monitoring, and Closed-Circuit Television (CCTV)

Requirements

Licensing Requirements

1. Must be at least eighteen (18) years of age.
   2. Successful completion of a background check through IdentoGO. For information, including locations, scheduling, and guidance for out-of-state applicants, visit https://www.identogo.com. The agency ORI # is TN90140Z.

Education and Experience Requirements

1. Post high school degree from an accredited university, college, or technical college, OR
   2. Current certification by a national training program in the field of work to be installed, serviced, or monitored, AND at least three (3) years of working experience in the alarm industry covering the installation of alarm systems.

Examination Requirements

Successfully complete the examination through PSI. In addition to scheduling an examination, you can view the exam bulletin and find more information about the testing process on their website at https://test-takers.psiexams.com.

Application & Fees

Complete the “Initial Alarm Qualifying Agent Application” online at core.tn.gov. The fee for an initial application is $200, plus $50 per classification.
 

All alarm system contractor employees with access to records, diagrams, plans, or other sensitive information pertaining to monitored, installed, or proposed alarm systems are required to register. A company must register employees within 30 days of employment.

Requirements

Licensing Requirements

1. Must be at least eighteen (18) years of age.
   2. Successful completion of a background check through IdentoGO within thirty (30) days of employment start date. For information, including locations, scheduling, and guidance for out-of-state applicants, visit https://www.identogo.com. Applicants with prior criminal history should review the requirements listed in Tenn. Code Annotated 62-32-303(10)(B)(i) for a listing of offenses that may impact eligibility for registration. The agency ORI # is TN90140Z.

Additional Information

• Your ID card will be mailed directly to your employer.
• Employee registrations are renewed in conjunction with company renewals.

Application & Fees

Complete the “Initial Alarm Registered Employee Application” online at core.tn.gov. The fee for an initial application is $100.