How to Install 12V Track Lighting

Turn off the breaker to the circuit in the location where your track lighting will be installed.

Locate the studs in the location you want the switch installed. Avoid the studs during installation and make sure the area for installation is clear for the wires to be run.

Mark the area where you want the track installed. Use a stud finder to locate the ceiling joists. Attach the track to one joist or span it so each bolt is placed in different joists if it's a long track. Make a template for the holes by holding the track up to the ceiling and marking through the holes. Drill pilot holes for the screws and attach the track to the joist with wood screws.

Place the wall mount electrical box on the wall where the switch will be located and draw around it for a template. Drill a pilot hole in the center and check for any obstructions. Once you determine the area is clear, use a drywall saw to cut out the outline of the box.

Find the wall above the area for the switch in the attic or crawl space above the wall. Feed the electrical wire down into the void in the wall where the switch will be.

Run the wires from the switch location to the power source you'll use for the light. This can be an existing fixture in the attic area or a junction box. Stretch another length of wire to the location of the track lighting. At this point, lay the wire out with a bit of extra wire, but don't connect anything.

Screw the junction box in place near the track lighting fixture.

Pull the wires through the hole you created for the switch box, and attach them to the back of the box. Mount the box in place. Strip the end of the wires and attach them to the switch, and install it all in the box.

Return to the attic and connect the wires to the power source and the wire that will run to the track. Begin by stripping the wires at the ends about 1 inch in, then twisting them together -- black to black, white to white. Crimp them together with wire-stripping pliers and attach a wire nut cap to each. Now connect the wires to the track in the same manner. A 12V track light has a transformer in the fixture to convert the power from 120V to 12V.

Install the bulbs in the track fixture. Restore the power and test the fixture by turning on the switch.