Lighting, Light Fixtures, Ceiling and Exhaust Fans - Changing standard switch to 3 way?

I have a decorator 3 way electrical switch that I would like to install but the location currently only has a standard switch. Can I safely use the 3 way switch in this location without the need for a second switch in the circuit?

Thanks.

Welcome to the forums. Why not buy a decora spst switch and replace the one you have with the right one? You can make the 3 way work if you are willing to work with it a little. The hot wire leading to your lights is broken and is attached to the switch screws, as you see. You will need to connect one of these wires to the black screw on the 3 way and the other wire on one of the other two screws, leaving the final screw alone. Now, after you install it you have a 50/50 chance of it operating on and off in the proper position, in addition to it not having "on" and "off" imprinted on the switch. See why buying the right switch would be better?

Thanks for the reply. The deco switch is a special order and a pain to get - I have to order through the decorator and wait for shipping. Patience is a virtue, just not mine.

Because I had the 3 way as an extra and it matches the wall paint perfectly, I wanted to use it. Prior to your reply, I hadn't tried to install the switch but based on your comment that it would not pose an issue, I installed and it works fine - even in the right positions. :cool:

Thanks again for the feedback and that added bit of confidence that I needed.

As chandler said, any 3-way switch can be used as a standard switch merely by using the common screw and one of the travelers.

Thanks John. I thought as much, but wanted the reassurance before doing something that might cause problems. Really appreciate the feedback.