No, there is not always a continuously hot live wire present at both 3-way switch boxes in a multi-location lighting configuration. In standard residential wiring methods, line voltage from the main service panel enters into only one of the switch boxes (or directly into the light fixture box), meaning one 3-way switch acts as the power feed containing a live hot wire, while the second switch box only receives current through the traveler wires when toggled. You can troubleshoot electrical energy safely using a non-contact voltage tester or a digital multimeter before touching components. You can verify your testing when checking terminal screws with a meter confirms exactly which box holds the live feed and which acts as the switch leg.
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