What a C-7 license allows
CSLB defines the C-7 Low Voltage Systems Contractor classification as follows: “A communication and low voltage contractor installs, services and maintains all types of communication and low voltage systems which are energy limited and do not exceed 91 volts. These systems include, but are not limited to telephone systems, sound systems, cable television systems, closed-circuit video systems, satellite dish antennas, instrumentation and temperature controls, and low voltage landscape lighting. Low voltage fire alarm systems are specifically not included in this section.” Source: cslb.ca.gov licensing classifications.
C-7 licenses in California by the numbers
As of September 2026, CSLB lists 4,275 current licenses that include C-7. 56% have workers' comp on file, 41% are filed exempt, and 237 were issued in the last 12 months.
Ownership: 34% sole owners, 57% corporations, 8% LLCs. Suspensions today: 50 for workers' comp, 153 for bonds.
Insurance and bonds a C-7 contractor needs
- $25,000 contractor license bond — required for every active license.
- Workers' comp — A license with employees must carry workers' comp. With no employees you can currently file an exemption; from January 1, 2028 (SB 1455), CSLB will require workers' comp for all active licenses except joint ventures.
- LLC licenses — liability insurance of at least $1 million (up to $5 million by member count) plus a $100,000 employee/worker bond.
- General liability and commercial auto — not required by CSLB for most licenses, but required by nearly every GC, owner and public agency contract.
Carriers underwrite based on the work you actually perform under this classification, your residential/commercial mix, subcontracting and claims history.
Get a quote
Asena Capital Insurance Services compares multiple markets for low voltage systems contractors and requests additional insured endorsements for you when a contract calls for them. Call (858) 925-9555 or request a quote — only your name, phone and email are required. CA License #6008596.