What the Course Entails and Exam Details

To obtain the CR-67 license, you generally need to pass two separate exams:

The Arizona Statutes and Rules (Business Management) Exam: This test covers the legal and business requirements for operating a contracting business in Arizona, including contract law, lien laws, employment regulations, and tax codes.

The Low Voltage Communication Systems (CR-67) Trade Exam: This is the technical exam, focusing on the specific knowledge required for low-voltage installations.

The CR-67 trade exam covers several core content areas. While the exact breakdown can vary slightly, you should expect significant questions on the following topics:

• General Knowledge and Safety: OSHA safety standards, proper tool usage, and worksite management.
• Technical and Trade Mathematics: Calculating cable voltage drops, determining conduit fill capacities, and estimating material quantities.
• Codes and Standards: A deep understanding of the National Electrical Code (NEC), particularly Articles 725 (Class 1, Class 2, and Class 3 Remote-Control, Signaling, and Power-Limited Circuits), 770 (Optical Fiber Cables), 800 (Communications Circuits), and 810 (Radio and Television Equipment). You must also be familiar with NFPA standards for fire alarm systems.
• Cable Installation and Testing: Techniques for installing, terminating, splicing, and testing various cable types, including Unshielded Twisted Pair (UTP), ScTP, coaxial cable, and single-mode and multi-mode fiber optics. This includes knowledge of TIA (Telecommunications Industry Association) standards for commercial building wiring.
• System-Specific Knowledge: Designing, installing, and troubleshooting:
• Voice and Data Network systems.
• Audio and Video distribution systems.
• Intercom and Paging systems.
• Intrusion detection, Access Control, and CCTV (Security) systems.
• Fire Alarm systems (specific NICET certifications may also be required by local jurisdictions).

 What to Expect in the Final Exam

The Arizona CR-67 exams are typically administered by a third-party testing vendor, currently PSI Services. The exams are administered via computer in a proctored environment.

Here are the general parameters for the CR-67 Trade Exam:

• Exam Format: Multiple-choice questions.
• Number of Questions: This can fluctuate, but it is generally between 60 and 80 questions.
• Time Limit: You are usually given 3 to 4 hours to complete the trade exam.
• Passing Score: A score of 70% or higher is typically required to pass.
• Testing Policies: This is an open-book exam. You are permitted (and highly encouraged) to bring approved reference materials into the testing center. The most critical reference is the most current edition of the National Electrical Code (NEC) handbook. Electronic versions are not allowed; only physical, bound books. You may also be allowed to bring NFPA standards and approved trade textbooks. All reference materials must be bound and may have permanent tabs (like post-it tabs), but loose-leaf notes or handwritten annotations are strictly prohibited.

 How to Study and Exam Centers

Creating a structured study plan is the most effective way to prepare for the CR-67 exam.

Actionable Study Strategies:

Get the Right Books Early: Purchase your own copy of the required reference materials, especially the NFPA 70 (National Electrical Code). Do not rely on outdated versions.

Tab Your Code Books: Spend time familiarizing yourself with the NEC. Use authorized tabs to quickly locate key articles (725, 770, 800, 810) and tables. The faster you can navigate the code book, the more efficiently you can answer questions during the exam.Enroll in a Trade School or Prep Course: Mavocational schools and industry associations (like a local IEC or NECA chapter) offer specific CR-67 exam preparation courses. These can be invaluable for understanding how the code is applied in real-world scenarios and for taking practice tests.

Take Timed Practice Exams: Utilize online practice exams that simulate the actual testing environment. This helps you get used to the format, identify your weak areas, and improve your pacing. Focus on understanding why an answer is correct, not just memorizing it.

Form a Study Group: Collaborate with other industry professionals who are also preparing for the exam. Discussing complex code sections or installation problems can deepen your understanding.

Wher and How to Take the Exam:

The exams are administered by PSI Services. You must first submit your license application and receive approval from the Arizona Registrar of Contractors (AZROC) before you can schedule an exam.

Once approved, you can register and schedule your exam directly through the PSI website or by phone.

• Examination Centers: PSI operates numerous testing centers throughout Arizona, including locations in Phoenix, Tucson, Mesa, and Flagstaff, as well as other sites nationwide. You will be able to select the most convenient location during the registration process.

 Job Opportunities from the Course

Holding an Arizona CR-67 Low Voltage Communication Systems license opens the door to diverse and high-demand career paths. As a licensed contractor, you are qualified to work on projects ranging from residential smart-home installations to large-scale commercial data center infrastructure.

This license unlocks the following specific job titles and business opportunities:

• Licensed Low Voltage Contractor: Operate your own business, bid on projects directly, and hire technicians.
• Telecommunications Technician/Installer: Install and maintain voice and data networks for commercial and residential clients.
• Fiber Optic Technician: Specialize in the splicing, termination, and testing of fiber optic backbone cabling.
• Security Systems Integrator: Design and install comprehensive security solutions, including CCTV surveillance, access control, and intrusion detection systems.
• Fire Alarm Systems Technician: Install, program, and maintain life-safety systems (Note: This often requires additional NICET certification).
• Audio/Visual (A/V) Installer: Work on high-end residential theaters, corporate boardrooms, and digital signage systems.
• Structured Cabling Project Manager: Oversee large-scale low-voltage installations for new construction and renovations.
• Field Service Engineer: Provide advanced troubleshooting and support for complex communication networks and integrated systems.