How to Prepare for Your FASA Exam in Florida | Alarm Tech Training

Prepare for FASA Exam

How to Prepare for Your FASA Exam in Florida

Here’s a guide on how to prepare for your 14‑Hour FASA/BASA Course with Alarm Tech Training (Florida) — covering steps you should take before, during, and after the course to give yourself the best chance at passing the final exam and getting certified.

Before the Course: Get Set Up

  1. Register and check requirements: Make sure your chosen course provider (Alarm Tech Training) is approved by the Florida Electrical Contractors Licensing Board (ECLB) for the BASA (Burglar Alarm Systems Agent) and/or FASA (Fire Alarm Systems Agent) credential. For example, the required course for BASA covers topics like false-alarm prevention, system technology, etc.

  2. Set aside time and environment: The 14-hour course will require focused time (“14 hours of instruction”). Ensure you have sufficient quiet time, good internet if online, and a place to work without distractions.

  3. Gather materials: If the course provides a manual, eBook, or access to online modules — download or print as needed. You might also want to pull in relevant standards such as the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 72 (fire alarm systems) and NFPA 70 (NEC) for low-voltage wiring as references.

  4. Familiarize with key topics ahead of time: Even before the class starts you’ll benefit from skimming topics like:

    • Basic electricity & wiring for alarms

    • Alarm system components (sensors, control panels, notification devices)

    • False-alarm causes and prevention methods

    • Codes & standards that apply (NFPA 72, life-safety codes, Florida Building Code, etc.) 

During the Course: Learning Effectively

  1. Engage actively with the modules: Whether it’s video lectures, live virtual instruction or reading through slides, make sure you’re not just passively listening — take notes. Mark any terms or standards you don’t yet fully understand.

  2. Take the quizzes seriously: Many providers embed quizzes after each module to check comprehension. For example, the BASA-type course lists periodic quizzes requiring a 70% or higher to pass. Use these as indicators of where you need extra review.

  3. Ask questions / review tricky parts: If you’re in a classroom or live virtual session, ask clarifying questions when you hit “codes & standards” or “alarm system design” topics.

  4. Focus on the exam-relevant content: The exam will likely cover a broad range of topics — for example: industry overview, standards, electricity, communications, alarm systems, access/CCTV, fire systems, and false alarms.

  5. Practice short recall: After each module, cover your notes and try to recite the main points: e.g., “What are the three main components of a burglar alarm system?” or “List two methods to reduce false alarms in commercial systems”.

  6. Stay organized with time: The course requires 14 hours of instruction. Make sure you complete all modules and attend any required live sessions or examinations of identity (webcam, photo ID etc) if required.

After the Course: Final Exam Preparation & Certification

  1. Review your notes and key standards: Just before the exam, review your notes on the major topics: wiring & electricity basics, codes/standards (NFPA, Florida Building Code, local AHJ issues), system components (intrusion & fire), false alarm prevention.

  2. Use sample questions: Wherever possible, take practice quizzes or sample questions. For example, websites provide sample licensing-type questions in Florida for low-voltage/security systems.

  3. Know the exam logistics: Find out how the exam is delivered (proctored or online), what score you must achieve (often ~70% or higher) and what identification or setup you need. For example, one provider says “open book… 50 multiple choice questions… 70% to pass”.

  4. Ensure all paperwork is submitted: After passing, you’ll need to request the badge/ID card for BASA or FASA via the ECLB or your provider. Confirm the submission process, employer verification (if required) and any other steps (fingerprint / background).

  5. Plan for renewal: The initial certification is just the first step. You’ll want to check when you’ll need continuing education or renewal (for example every two years). Good to set reminders now rather than later.

  6. Apply what you learned: The exam is a gate-keeper, but what you really gain is the capability to work responsibly in alarm systems. Use your course knowledge right away (if you are installing/servicing) so you build confidence and retain information.

🛠 Quick Checklist Before Exam

  • Completed all 14 hours of the course

  • All module quizzes passed

  • Final exam scheduled and logistics confirmed

  • ID/proctoring requirements met

  • Reviewed key standards: NFPA 72, NFPA 70, Life Safety Code, Florida Building Code

  • Reviewed major subjects: alarm systems, components, wiring, false alarm prevention, communications, access/CCTV

  • Study notes organized for quick review

  • Certification/badge request form ready to submit

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