Oregon Contractor Licenses: Updated Requirements Guide

Oregon runs a well-defined contractor licensing system that blends strong statewide credentials with select local registrations. Most business-level contractor licenses are issued through the Oregon Construction Contractors Board (CCB), while many individual trade credentials are handled by the Building Codes Division (BCD). A few public-safety specialties are regulated by other state agencies.

This guide explains how Oregon’s state-level licenses work and where local registration may still apply, so you can plan your path from application to approval without surprises. We highlight several representative licenses and authorities for Oregon below; this guide is updated periodically as additional jurisdictions are researched or requested.

Use the Quick Navigation to jump to your trade. Each license entry includes the issuing authority, core requirements, renewal details, and an exam-prep resource tailored to Oregon codes and rules.

Quick Navigation

Overview of Oregon Contractor Licensing

Oregon’s contractor landscape is primarily governed at the state level. The Oregon Construction Contractors Board (CCB) licenses residential and commercial contractor businesses, including general and specialty contractors such as roofing. Individual trade licenses—electrical, plumbing, boiler, and elevator—are issued by the Building Codes Division (BCD) within the Department of Consumer and Business Services.

Several safety-critical specialties are regulated by other state agencies. Water well constructors and pump installers are overseen by the Oregon Water Resources Department (OWRD). Asbestos abatement contractors are licensed through the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ). Lead-based paint renovation is coordinated by the Oregon Health Authority (OHA) with the CCB, and fire sprinkler contractors are licensed through the Oregon Office of State Fire Marshal (OSFM) with BCD coordination where applicable.

Oregon also features localized requirements in certain cities. In these areas, contractors typically register their state CCB license within the local permit system. This guide first covers the state-level licenses (next section) and then summarizes local requirements by trade, including a verified example in the City of Bend.

Primary Licensing Authority

Multiple Authorities – See research notes

Verified local jurisdictions:

Browse all Oregon contractor license practice tests →

State-Level Licenses in Oregon

State-level licensing in Oregon means your credential is issued or recognized by a statewide agency and is valid across Oregon. Contractor business licenses are issued by the CCB, while most trade licenses (electrical, plumbing, boiler, elevator) are issued by the BCD. Separate state agencies regulate wells, asbestos, lead-based paint renovation, and fire sprinklers.

Below are the principal state-level licenses by trade: Electrician, Plumbing, HVAC (boiler and limited maintenance), General Contractor (CCB business licenses), Roofing (CCB specialty endorsements), and key Specialty trades.

State-Level Electrician Licenses

General Journeyman Electrician (J)

Regulatory authority: Oregon Building Codes Division – Electrical Licensing — https://www.oregon.gov/bcd/licensing/pages/electrical-apply.aspx

Requirements:

  • Experience: Completion of an approved apprenticeship with at least 8,000 hours of supervised electrical work across commercial, industrial, and residential installations.
  • Education: High school diploma or equivalent and completion of an approved electrical apprenticeship or equivalent training program.
  • Exam: BCD approval required; PSI-administered state exam covering the National Electrical Code, Oregon electrical specialty code, and related laws and rules.
  • Minimum age: 18

Insurance: Not required for the individual license; employing contractor/business must meet CCB insurance and bond requirements when applicable.

Renewal: Every 3 years; 24 hours CE on NEC updates, Oregon specialty code, and approved technical/safety courses.

Contact the Oregon Building Codes Division to confirm any current fee schedules and renewal processing details before applying.

General Supervising Electrician (S)

Regulatory authority: Oregon Building Codes Division – Electrical Licensing — https://www.oregon.gov/bcd/licensing/pages/electrical-apply.aspx

Requirements:

  • Experience: Current Oregon General Journeyman (J) plus additional related experience, typically at least 8,000 journeyman hours involving installation, supervision, and design.
  • Education: Journeyman-level training plus any BCD-required supervisory/code coursework.
  • Exam: Advanced PSI exam on code interpretation, design, load calculations, supervision responsibilities, and Oregon laws/rules (BCD approval required).
  • Minimum age: 18

Insurance: Not required for the individual credential; employer/business must meet CCB requirements if contracting.

Renewal: Every 3 years; 24 hours CE focused on code updates, advanced design, and supervising responsibilities.

Confirm current fees and renewal processing details with the Building Codes Division before applying.

Limited Residential Electrician (LR)

Regulatory authority: Oregon Building Codes Division – Electrical Licensing — https://www.oregon.gov/bcd/licensing/pages/electrical-apply.aspx

Requirements:

  • Experience: Approximately 4,000 hours through an approved limited residential apprenticeship or equivalent residential wiring experience.
  • Education: Classroom and OJT focused on dwelling units via an approved LR program.
  • Exam: PSI exam emphasizing residential NEC, Oregon residential specialty code, and applicable statutes/rules (BCD approval required).
  • Minimum age: 18

Insurance: Not required for the individual license; contracting entities must meet CCB bonding and insurance standards.

Renewal: Every 3 years; 16 hours CE on residential code updates and approved technical topics.

Verify current examination and licensing fees with BCD prior to scheduling.

Limited Maintenance Electrician (LME)

Regulatory authority: Oregon Building Codes Division – Electrical Licensing — https://www.oregon.gov/bcd/licensing/pages/electrical-apply.aspx

Requirements:

  • Experience: Documented maintenance experience on existing electrical systems in industrial/commercial facilities (often ~4,000 hours or per BCD criteria).
  • Education: Maintenance-focused electrical training recognized by BCD.
  • Exam: PSI exam on safe maintenance, repair, replacement within scope; code and safety provisions.
  • Minimum age: 18

Insurance: Not required for the individual; employer/business coverage applies when contracting.

Renewal: Every 3 years; 12 hours CE on maintenance practices and relevant code changes.

Contact BCD to confirm fee amounts and current renewal procedures before applying.

Limited Journeyman Sign Electrician (SIG)

Regulatory authority: Oregon Building Codes Division – Electrical Licensing — https://www.oregon.gov/bcd/licensing/pages/electrical-apply.aspx

Requirements:

  • Experience: Training/experience installing, maintaining, and connecting electrical signs and sign lighting per BCD limits (sign apprenticeship or equivalent).
  • Education: Technical training related to sign installations and relevant code provisions.
  • Exam: PSI exam emphasizing sign installations, circuits, grounding/bonding, and sign safety rules.
  • Minimum age: 18

Insurance: Not required for the individual license; contracting firms must meet CCB standards.

Renewal: Every 3 years; 12 hours CE on code changes affecting sign work and approved topics.

Confirm fees and renewal details with BCD prior to application.

Limited Energy Technician, Class A (LEA)

Regulatory authority: Oregon Building Codes Division – Electrical Licensing — https://www.oregon.gov/bcd/licensing/pages/electrical-apply.aspx

Requirements:

  • Experience: Installation of low-voltage/limited-energy systems (communications, data, security, alarms), typically via an approved apprenticeship or equivalent.
  • Education: Classroom and practical training in limited energy systems, codes, and safety recognized by BCD.
  • Exam: PSI exam on limited-energy NEC articles, Oregon specialty code, and installation standards for communications/alarm/data systems.
  • Minimum age: 18

Insurance: Not required for the individual; business insurance/bonding is handled via CCB when contracting.

Renewal: Every 3 years; 8 hours CE on limited-energy code updates and related subjects.

Check with BCD for the latest fees and renewal processes before you apply or schedule the exam.

Need help preparing for any Oregon electrical exam? Browse Oregon contractor license practice tests and study material.

State-Level Plumbing Licenses

Journeyman Plumber

Regulatory authority: Oregon Building Codes Division – Plumbing Licensing — https://www.oregon.gov/bcd/licensing/pages/plumbing-apply.aspx

Requirements:

  • Experience: Completion of an approved plumbing apprenticeship (~8,000 hours) covering residential and commercial systems, or equivalent BCD-approved experience.
  • Education: Related classroom instruction on plumbing codes, installation standards, and safety.
  • Exam: PSI-administered exam on the Oregon Plumbing Specialty Code, adopted UPC provisions, and Oregon statutes/rules.
  • Minimum age: 18

Insurance: Not required for the individual license; employing contractor/business must carry CCB-required insurance/bonding.

Renewal: Every 3 years; 24 hours CE on code changes and approved technical/safety training.

Confirm current exam and license fees and renewal procedures with BCD before applying.

Plumbing Business Contractor License

Regulatory authority: Oregon Building Codes Division and Oregon Construction Contractors Board — BCD Plumbing Licenses | CCB

Requirements:

  • Responsible individual: Employ an appropriately licensed plumber (e.g., journeyman) responsible for trade work.
  • Business and law: CCB pre-license training and exam for the business principal; complete CCB application steps, bonding, and insurance.
  • Exam: No separate technical plumbing exam for the business entity; the responsible individual must hold and maintain the required trade license.
  • Minimum age: 18

Insurance/Bonding: General liability and contractor surety bond amounts set by the CCB based on endorsement type; workers’ compensation if you have employees.

Renewal: CCB business license renews every 2 years; individual plumber licenses typically renew every 3 years.

Verify current CCB bonding/insurance minimums and fee schedules before applying.

Domestic Water Treatment Installer

Regulatory authority: Oregon Building Codes Division — https://www.oregon.gov/bcd/licensing/pages/plumbing-apply.aspx

Requirements:

  • Experience/Training: Documented experience or approved training in domestic water treatment system installation.
  • Education: Specialized instruction in treatment equipment, plumbing code requirements, and cross-connection control.
  • Exam: PSI exam covering installation requirements, backflow prevention, and relevant Oregon Plumbing Specialty Code sections.
  • Minimum age: 18

Insurance: Not required for the individual; business-level coverage applies through CCB if contracting.

Renewal: Every 3 years; 8 hours CE on treatment-related code requirements and approved topics.

Check current fees and endorsement processing timelines with BCD before applying.

Medical Gas Piping Installer

Regulatory authority: Oregon Building Codes Division — https://www.oregon.gov/bcd/licensing/pages/plumbing-apply.aspx

Requirements:

  • Prerequisite: Must be a licensed plumber.
  • Education/Training: Approved medical gas installer course including brazing procedures, NFPA 99, and applicable plumbing code provisions.
  • Experience: Documented specialized experience installing medical gas systems per NFPA and Oregon code.
  • Exam: PSI exam covering medical gas piping standards, NFPA 99, and Oregon code; often includes a practical brazing qualification component.
  • Minimum age: 18

Insurance: Not required for the individual endorsement; business insurance via CCB applies to contracting entities.

Renewal: Typically aligned with the base plumber license; specialty CE and safety updates may be required.

Confirm current endorsement fees and renewal alignment with BCD prior to application.

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State-Level HVAC Licenses (Boiler and Limited Maintenance)

Boiler Operator License

Regulatory authority: Oregon Building Codes Division – Boiler and Pressure Vessel Program — https://www.oregon.gov/bcd/codes-stand/pages/boiler-pressure-vessels.aspx

Requirements:

  • Experience: Documented experience operating boilers of the applicable size/pressure, typically under supervision in an industrial or commercial setting.
  • Education: Training in boiler operation, safety, controls, maintenance, and Oregon boiler laws/rules.
  • Exam: Covers safe operation, combustion/controls, code requirements, and emergency procedures (exam provider confirmed by program).
  • Minimum age: 18

Insurance: Not required for the individual operator credential.

Renewal: Commonly every 3 years or as specified by the Boiler Program.

Contact the Boiler and Pressure Vessel Program to confirm fees, renewal cycles, and any documentation requirements before applying.

Boiler Installer License

Regulatory authority: Oregon Building Codes Division – Boiler and Pressure Vessel Program — https://www.oregon.gov/bcd/codes-stand/pages/boiler-pressure-vessels.aspx

Requirements:

  • Experience: Documented experience setting and piping boilers/pressure vessels and integrating them with heating/process systems as specified by BCD.
  • Education: Technical training in installation, welding/brazing (as applicable), piping, code requirements, and inspection standards.
  • Exam: Covers installation requirements, adopted ASME/NBIC standards, and Oregon boiler statutes/rules (exam provider verified by program).
  • Minimum age: 18

Insurance: Not required for the individual installer credential; business-level coverage applies via CCB when contracting.

Renewal: As specified by the Boiler and Pressure Vessel Program.

Confirm current fees, insurance expectations for contracting entities, and renewal specifics with the Boiler Program before applying.

Limited Maintenance Specialty License: HVAC/R

Regulatory authority: Oregon Building Codes Division — https://www.oregon.gov/bcd/Pages/index.aspx

Requirements:

  • Experience: Maintenance and repair of HVAC/R systems within the defined limited maintenance scope.
  • Education: Training in HVAC/R operation, maintenance, and applicable mechanical/electrical code requirements.
  • Exam: Focuses on safe maintenance practices, controls, and relevant portions of adopted mechanical/electrical codes.
  • Minimum age: 18

Insurance: Not required for the individual credential; businesses must comply with CCB insurance/bonding if contracting.

Renewal: Every 3 years or as specified by BCD.

Contact BCD to confirm current exam schedules, fees, and renewal details before applying.

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State-Level General Contractor Licenses (CCB Business Licenses)

Residential General Contractor

Regulatory authority: Oregon Construction Contractors Board — https://www.oregon.gov/ccb/pages/licensing.aspx

Requirements (Business & Law):

  • Education/Exam: At least 16 hours of CCB-approved pre-license training and a passing score on the PSI-administered CCB exam (laws, rules, lien laws, contracts, business practices, workplace health/safety).
  • Experience: No specific trade-experience mandate for the business license; trade work must be performed by appropriately licensed individuals/trades where required.
  • Age: 18 or older
  • Business setup: Register entity with the Oregon Secretary of State (if applicable), obtain bond and liability insurance, and submit the CCB application with fees.

Fees: Application: $250; Initial license: $325; Renewal: $325.

Insurance/Bonding: General liability insurance and a contractor license surety bond at CCB-set minimums; workers’ compensation if you have employees.

Renewal: Every 2 years; typically 8 hours CE (3 hours CCB laws/rules/business practices + 5 hours approved electives for most residential contractors).

Confirm current bond/insurance minimums and any endorsement-specific conditions with the CCB prior to applying.

Commercial General Contractor Level 1

Regulatory authority: Oregon Construction Contractors Board — https://www.oregon.gov/ccb/pages/licensing.aspx

Requirements (Business & Law):

  • Education/Exam: 16 hours of CCB pre-license training and a passing score on the PSI-administered CCB exam.
  • Scope: Intended for large/complex commercial structures; ensure appropriate design professionals and licensed trades are engaged as required by building officials.
  • Business setup: Secretary of State registration (if required), CCB bond and liability insurance, and application with fees.

Fees: Application: $250; Initial license: $325; Renewal: $325.

Insurance/Bonding: Higher liability and bond levels than residential-only endorsements, per CCB commercial Level 1 requirements; workers’ compensation if applicable.

Renewal: Every 2 years; commercial-only endorsements generally have no CCB CE unless combined with a residential endorsement.

Verify current commercial-level bond/insurance minimums and any project-specific conditions with the CCB before applying.

Commercial General Contractor Level 2

Regulatory authority: Oregon Construction Contractors Board — https://www.oregon.gov/ccb/pages/licensing.aspx

Requirements (Business & Law):

  • Education/Exam: CCB pre-license training (16 hours) and passing the PSI-administered CCB exam.
  • Scope: Authorized for smaller or less complex commercial structures than Level 1.
  • Business setup: Complete CCB bonding/insurance and application steps with fees.

Fees: Application: $250; Initial license: $325; Renewal: $325.

Insurance/Bonding: Liability insurance and surety bond limits set by CCB for Commercial Level 2; workers’ compensation if applicable.

Renewal: Every 2 years; generally no CCB CE for commercial-only unless paired with a residential endorsement.

Confirm current Level 2 bond/insurance minimums and renewal timing with the CCB prior to application.

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State-Level Roofing Licenses (CCB Specialty Endorsements)

Residential Specialty Contractor – Roofing

Regulatory authority: Oregon Construction Contractors Board — https://www.oregon.gov/ccb/pages/licensing.aspx

Requirements (Business & Law):

  • Education/Exam: 16 hours of CCB-approved pre-license education and passing the PSI-administered CCB exam.
  • Trade scope: Roofing work must comply with applicable building codes and any local permit requirements; no separate state technical roofing exam.
  • Business setup: Bonding and liability insurance per CCB minimums; workers’ compensation if employing workers.

Fees: Application: $250; Initial license: $325; Renewal: $325.

Insurance/Bonding: General liability and surety bond levels set for residential specialty contractors, including roofers.

Renewal: Every 2 years; typically 8 hours CE (3 hours CCB laws/rules/business + 5 hours electives) for residential endorsements.

Verify current bond/insurance minimums and CE specifics with the CCB before renewing or changing endorsements.

Commercial Specialty Contractor – Roofing (Level 2)

Regulatory authority: Oregon Construction Contractors Board — https://www.oregon.gov/ccb/pages/licensing.aspx

Requirements (Business & Law):

  • Education/Exam: CCB pre-license education and PSI-administered CCB exam.
  • Trade scope: Qualify for a commercial specialty endorsement; technical roofing standards are enforced through building codes and inspections.
  • Business setup: Maintain CCB bond and liability insurance at commercial specialty levels; workers’ comp if applicable.

Fees: Application: $250; Initial license: $325; Renewal: $325.

Insurance/Bonding: Liability insurance and surety bond amounts as set by CCB for commercial endorsements.

Renewal: Every 2 years; generally no CCB CE for commercial-only unless combined with a residential endorsement.

Confirm current commercial bond/insurance minimums and documentation expectations with the CCB prior to application or renewal.

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State-Level Specialty Trade Licenses

Water Well Constructor License

Regulatory authority: Oregon Water Resources Department — https://www.oregon.gov/owrd/programs/gwwl/wcc/resourcesforwellconstructors/pages/default.aspx

Requirements:

  • Experience: Documented experience constructing water wells under supervision, meeting OWRD criteria for the class sought.
  • Education: Training in well construction practices, hydrogeology basics, and Oregon well standards/rules.
  • Exam: Covers Oregon Administrative Rules, well construction standards, reporting, sealing/abandonment, and groundwater protection.
  • Minimum age: 18

Financial assurance/Insurance: Surety bond or other financial assurance as required by OWRD; liability insurance may also apply.

Renewal: Typically every 3 years or as specified by OWRD.

Contact OWRD to confirm current bonding amounts, fees, and renewal timelines before applying.

Pump Installer License

Regulatory authority: Oregon Water Resources Department — https://www.oregon.gov/owrd/programs/gwwl/wcc/resourcesforwellconstructors/pages/default.aspx

Requirements:

  • Experience: Documented pump installation/servicing experience per Oregon standards.
  • Education: Technical training in pump installation, wiring, water quality protection, and Oregon rules.
  • Exam: Addresses pump installation standards, mechanical/electrical aspects within scope, and Oregon regulations.
  • Minimum age: 18

Financial assurance/Insurance: Bonding/financial assurance as specified by OWRD; liability insurance may apply.

Renewal: Typically every 3 years or as specified by OWRD.

Confirm current fees, bonding levels, and renewal cadence with OWRD before application.

Elevator Contractor License

Regulatory authority: Oregon Building Codes Division – Elevator and Amusement Ride Program — https://www.oregon.gov/bcd/codes-stand/pages/elevators.aspx

Requirements:

  • Experience: Installing, modernizing, or servicing elevators/conveyances; may require employment of licensed elevator mechanics.
  • Education: Knowledge of ASME A17.1 and adopted elevator codes, safety standards, and Oregon rules.
  • Exam: Covers elevator installation/alteration requirements, state elevator laws, and safety standards.
  • Minimum age: 18

Insurance: Liability insurance in amounts specified by BCD; workers’ comp where applicable.

Renewal: As specified by BCD, often annually.

Verify current insurance minimums, fees, and annual renewal steps with BCD before applying.

Elevator Mechanic License

Regulatory authority: Oregon Building Codes Division – Elevator and Amusement Ride Program — https://www.oregon.gov/bcd/codes-stand/pages/elevators.aspx

Requirements:

  • Experience/Education: Apprenticeship or equivalent experience and technical training in elevator installation, maintenance, codes, and safety.
  • Exam: Evaluates installation/maintenance proficiency, ASME A17.1, and Oregon laws/rules.
  • Minimum age: 18

Renewal: As specified by BCD.

Check with BCD to confirm exam logistics, fees, and renewal expectations before applying.

Insurance: Not required for the individual mechanic license; employer policies apply when applicable.

Asbestos Abatement Contractor License

Regulatory authority: Oregon Department of Environmental Quality — https://www.oregon.gov/deq/hazards-and-cleanup/pages/asbestos-information.aspx

Requirements/Training:

  • Accredited asbestos contractor/supervisor training and required refreshers.
  • Experience or training in asbestos abatement and compliance with DEQ licensing and project notification requirements.
  • Exam: Administered within accredited courses addressing health effects, regulations, and abatement practices.
  • Minimum age: 18

Insurance: Liability coverage appropriate for asbestos abatement operations; pollution liability coverage is often required or expected.

Renewal: Annual or as specified by DEQ; annual refresher training is required.

Confirm current licensing fees, insurance expectations, and notification requirements with DEQ prior to bidding or starting work.

Lead-Based Paint Renovation License (RRP)

Regulatory authority: Oregon Health Authority and Oregon Construction Contractors Board — OHA Lead-Based Paint | CCB

Requirements/Training:

  • Completion of an EPA- or state-accredited lead-safe renovator course and any state-specific training.
  • Firm registration as a certified renovator entity for work on pre-1978 housing and child-occupied facilities.
  • Exam: Course exam and hands-on assessment covering lead-safe practices, regulations, and occupant protection.
  • Minimum age: 18

Insurance: Liability insurance appropriate for lead-related renovation; CCB insurance/bonding rules apply to the contractor’s endorsement.

Renewal: Renovator certification and firm registration renewed periodically, typically every 5 years for renovator certification; refresher training required.

Verify current OHA/CCB certification steps, fees, and renewal timelines before scheduling projects involving lead paint.

Fire Sprinkler Contractor License

Regulatory authority: Oregon Office of State Fire Marshal — https://www.oregon.gov/osfm

Requirements:

  • Experience: Demonstrated experience designing, installing, or servicing automatic fire sprinkler systems per OSFM licensing criteria.
  • Education: Training/certification in applicable NFPA standards and Oregon fire codes.
  • Exam/Certification: Focus on NFPA 13 and related standards, system design/installation, and Oregon fire/building code requirements.
  • Minimum age: 18

Insurance: Liability insurance limits required by the State Fire Marshal; workers’ compensation if applicable.

Renewal: As specified by OSFM, often annually or biannually; updates to NFPA standards and Oregon code may be required.

Confirm current OSFM fees, insurance minimums, and renewal requirements before applying or renewing.

Exploring Oregon specialty credentials? Browse Oregon contractor license practice tests and study material.

Electrician Licenses in Oregon

Statewide electrician licensing is administered by the Oregon Building Codes Division (see State-Level Electrician Licenses above). Some cities may also require contractors to register their CCB-licensed business within local permitting systems before pulling electrical permits. The local notes below help you navigate those jurisdictional steps.

Local Licensing Requirements

Major Cities with Local Requirements:

Note: Requirements vary by jurisdiction. Always confirm with your local building department before applying.

Plumbing Licenses in Oregon

Journeyman and specialty plumbing licenses are issued by the Oregon Building Codes Division (see State-Level Plumbing Licenses above). Where local registration is required, cities typically verify your active CCB business license and any responsible individual credentials during permit account setup.

Local Licensing Requirements

Major Cities with Local Requirements:

Note: Requirements vary by jurisdiction. Always confirm with your local building department before applying.

HVAC Licenses in Oregon

Oregon regulates boiler operators/installers and limited HVAC/R maintenance at the state level through BCD (see State-Level HVAC Licenses above). Some jurisdictions may still require your CCB-licensed business to register locally for permit access on HVAC/mechanical projects.

Local Licensing Requirements

Major Cities with Local Requirements:

Note: Requirements vary by jurisdiction. Always confirm with your local building department before applying.

📍 Oregon Uses Local Licensing

Some contractor requirements—especially permit-related registrations—are handled by individual cities and counties. Application forms, insurance certificates, and renewal cycles can differ by jurisdiction.

What this means for you:

  • Check the city/county where you will work for local registration steps tied to permits.
  • If you work in multiple municipalities, track each account’s expiration and documentation requirements.
  • Ensure insurance and bond certificates meet both CCB and any local formatting or naming requirements.

To prepare efficiently for any required exams, use Oregon code-focused materials. Browse Oregon contractor license practice tests and study material.

General Contractor Licenses in Oregon

Business-level general contractor licensing is statewide through the CCB (see State-Level General Contractor Licenses). Some jurisdictions also require local contractor registration for permit access. Verified example below.

Note: Local registration processes vary. Always review your city’s current permit portal instructions and submittal checklists.

City of Bend Contractor Registration (Local Jurisdiction)

Regulatory authority: City of Bend – Building Safety Division — https://www.bendoregon.gov/services/permits-licenses/developers-and-contractors/contractor-registration

Requirements:

  • Hold an active Oregon CCB license prior to local registration.
  • Provide CCB license details and maintain state-required insurance/bonding.
  • No local exam; registration supports permit issuance and contractor record management.
  • Age: 18 or older

Insurance: Maintain the insurance required for your CCB endorsement; keep documents current in the Bend system as instructed.

Renewal: As required by the City of Bend registration process; often tied to permit activity or annual verification.

Confirm any registration fees, document upload formats, and renewal cadence directly with the City of Bend before applying.

Want more help with Oregon general contractor licensing and exam prep? Browse Oregon contractor license practice tests and study material.

Roofing Licenses in Oregon

Roofing contractors are licensed statewide under the CCB as specialty contractors (see State-Level Roofing Licenses). Local jurisdictions may still require a brief contractor registration in their permit portals before roofing permits are issued.

Local Licensing Requirements

Major Cities with Local Requirements:

Note: Requirements vary by jurisdiction. Always confirm with your local building department before applying.

Specialty Trade Licenses in Oregon

Key specialty credentials (wells, pumps, asbestos, lead-based paint, fire sprinklers, and elevators) are regulated at the state level by OWRD, DEQ, OHA/CCB, OSFM, and BCD (see State-Level Specialty Trade Licenses). Where your specialty work requires city permits, local registration in the permit portal may be necessary.

Local Licensing Requirements

Major Cities with Local Requirements:

Note: Requirements vary by jurisdiction. Always confirm with your local building department before applying.

Application Process

  1. Determine the appropriate Oregon Construction Contractors Board (CCB) endorsement type (residential, commercial, or both; general or specialty).
  2. Complete at least 16 hours of CCB-approved pre-license training on Oregon construction laws, regulations, and business practices.
  3. Pass the Oregon CCB contractor business and law exam administered by PSI.
  4. Register the business entity with the Oregon Secretary of State, if required (corporation, LLC, etc.).
  5. Obtain the required contractor license surety bond amount based on the chosen CCB endorsement(s).
  6. Purchase general liability insurance meeting CCB minimum coverage requirements and workers’ compensation insurance if the business has employees.
  7. Complete and submit the CCB license application with all required documentation, including exam score report, proof of insurance, and original bond, and pay the required license fee.
  8. Await CCB review and issuance of the two-year contractor license; maintain compliance with continuing education and renewal requirements.

Timeline: For CCB licensing, the process can typically be completed within 2 to 4 weeks after finishing pre-license education and passing the PSI exam, depending on how quickly the applicant assembles documentation and CCB processing times.

Reciprocity

Oregon has reciprocity with: Idaho, Montana, Utah, Wyoming, Maine, Arkansas

Requirements: For electrical and plumbing licenses, the Oregon Building Codes Division has reciprocity or comity agreements with several other states for certain license classes such as general journeyman electrician and journeyman plumber. Applicants typically must hold an active license in good standing from the reciprocal state, document required experience, provide verification from the other state, and often pass Oregon’s code or law exam portions before being granted an Oregon license.

Limitations: Reciprocity is limited to specific license types and states listed in current BCD agreements. The CCB business contractor license is not generally granted by reciprocity; out-of-state contractors must complete Oregon pre-license education, pass the CCB exam, and meet all bonding and insurance requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to get a contractor license in Oregon?

For CCB licensing, many applicants finish within 2–4 weeks after completing pre-license education and passing the PSI exam, depending on document readiness and CCB processing times.

Can I transfer my license from another state to Oregon?

Electrical and plumbing reciprocity/comity may be available with Idaho, Montana, Utah, Wyoming, Maine, and Arkansas for specific classifications. Expect to document your current license, verify experience, and often pass Oregon code or law portions. CCB business licenses are not granted by reciprocity; you must complete Oregon’s pre-license training, exam, and bonding/insurance steps.

What happens if I fail the exam?

Retake policies depend on the exam and provider. For CCB business and law and BCD-administered trade exams, contact PSI or the relevant program for current retake rules, waiting periods, and fees.

Do I need insurance?

CCB-licensed contractors must carry general liability insurance and a contractor’s surety bond (limits vary by endorsement), plus workers’ compensation if employing workers. Many individual trade licenses do not require insurance for the individual credential, but the employing contractor/business must still meet CCB insurance and bonding rules.

How do I renew my license?

CCB business licenses renew every 2 years (residential endorsements generally require continuing education). Most BCD individual trade licenses renew every 3 years, with CE requirements varying by license. Specialty agencies (OWRD, DEQ, OHA, OSFM) set their own renewal cycles.

What if my city has requirements not shown here?

Local permit systems can require separate contractor registration. Always check with your city or county before applying for permits. If you need exam prep while confirming local steps, browse Oregon contractor license practice tests and study material.

Where can I find practice tests for Oregon exams?

We offer comprehensive PDF practice tests for Oregon licenses—typically 1,500–2,500 questions—with complete answer keys and reference locators to exact code sections. Study offline at your own pace; no time or use limits. Browse Oregon contractor practice tests.

Oregon · Practice tests

Oregon contractor license practice tests

The Oregon practice tests we publish today: comprehensive PDF guides, typically 1,500 to 2,500 questions each, with full answer keys and reference locators to the exact code sections. We add new tests regularly, so if your license isn’t listed here, contact us and we’ll build it.

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Related Official Resources

Official Sources for Further Details:

  1. Oregon Construction Contractors Board (CCB)
    https://www.oregon.gov/ccb/Pages/index.aspx
    Official Board Site | Accessed: 2026-05-25
  2. Oregon Construction Contractors Board – Education Catalogs
    https://www.oregon.gov/ccb/pages/education-catalogs.aspx
    Official Board Site | Accessed: 2026-05-25
  3. Oregon Building Codes Division – Electrical Licenses
    https://www.oregon.gov/bcd/licensing/pages/electrical-apply.aspx
    Official Board Site | Accessed: 2026-05-25
  4. Oregon Building Codes Division – Plumbing Licenses
    https://www.oregon.gov/bcd/licensing/pages/plumbing-apply.aspx
    Official Board Site | Accessed: 2026-05-25
  5. Oregon Building Codes Division – Boiler and Pressure Vessel Program
    https://www.oregon.gov/bcd/codes-stand/pages/boiler-pressure-vessels.aspx
    Official Board Site | Accessed: 2026-05-25
  6. Oregon Building Codes Division – Elevator and Amusement Ride Program
    https://www.oregon.gov/bcd/codes-stand/pages/elevators.aspx
    Official Board Site | Accessed: 2026-05-25
  7. Oregon Water Resources Department – Well Construction
    https://www.oregon.gov/owrd/programs/gwwl/wcc/resourcesforwellconstructors/pages/default.aspx
    Official Board Site | Accessed: 2026-05-25
  8. Oregon Department of Environmental Quality – Asbestos
    https://www.oregon.gov/deq/hazards-and-cleanup/pages/asbestos-information.aspx
    Official Board Site | Accessed: 2026-05-25
  9. Oregon Health Authority – Lead Poisoning Prevention / Lead-Based Paint
    https://www.oregon.gov/oha/PH/HealthyEnvironments/HealthyNeighborhoods/LeadPoisoning/Pages/index.aspx
    Official Board Site | Accessed: 2026-05-25
  10. Oregon Office of State Fire Marshal
    https://www.oregon.gov/osfm
    Official Board Site | Accessed: 2026-05-25
  11. City of Bend – Contractor Registration
    https://www.bendoregon.gov/services/permits-licenses/developers-and-contractors/contractor-registration
    Official City Site | Accessed: 2026-05-25
  12. Oregon Construction Contractors Board – Licensing Information
    https://www.oregon.gov/ccb/pages/licensing.aspx
    Official Board Site | Accessed: 2026-05-25

Important Disclaimer

Information Currency: This guide reflects licensing information as available in 2026. Licensing requirements are subject to change without notice. Always verify current requirements with official sources.

Official Source: For current information, contact Multiple Authorities – See research notes:

No Legal Advice: This guide provides general information only. Consult with the licensing board or a qualified professional for guidance specific to your situation.

Local Requirements: Some licensing in Oregon is handled at the city or county level. Always verify requirements with your local building department.

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