• Contractor Pre-Licensing 

    A quick guide on getting licensed to perform work as a construction contractor in Oregon.

Interested in getting your CCB license? Look no further.

1. Make sure you need a CCB license.

Oregon law requires anyone who works for compensation in any construction activity, involving improvements to real property, be licensed. This generally includes:

  • Roofing
  • Siding
  • Painting
  • Carpentry
  • Floor Covering
  • Concrete
  • HVAC
  • Electrical
  • Plumbing
  • Tree servicing
  • Repair of attached appliances
  • Land development
  • Handyman
  • Manufactured dwelling install
  • Home inspection

2. Plan ahead. 

Application processing can take an excess of 8 weeks. Be patient and follow application steps as closely as possible, as any errors/missing documentation may add to your wait time.

Before beginning the process, make sure you meet these prerequisites:

  • You must be at least 18 years old.
  • Each license is only issued to one business.
  • Unpaid construction debts may disqualify you from licensure.
  • Certain criminal convictions may disqualify you from licensure. 

To get licensed:

  1. Complete the 16-hour pre-licensing training, and take the exam.
    1. Select a Responsible Managing Individual (RMI) to complete the training and exam. OHBA has five offices that offer the pre-license training:

      Bend
      (541) 389.1058      		 Klamath Falls
      (541) 884.8570      		 Medford
      (541) 773.2872      		 Portland
      (503) 684.1880      		 Salem
      (503) 399.1500

      Once you have completed the 16-hour training, your provider will direct you on how to contact the CCB's third-party testing provider.

  2. Determine your endorsement types. Contractors must carry the proper endorsement for the type of structure they work on. Endorsements typically only pertain to a single type of structure, so if you decide to bid to work on structures outside of your endorsement, you will need to change your license to carry both endorsements. Click here to view a chart to help you select the right kind of endorsement for your work. 
    1. The legislature recently created new types of licenses for people who work in the construction industry with a limited scope of work. These licenses carry different endorsement, insurance, and education requirements. Click here to learn more.

  3. File your corporation, LLC, and/or assumed business name. You must file these directly with the Oregon Secretary of State's office. Click here for more information on starting a business in Oregon.

  4. Submit your CCB surety bond in the required amount. Make sure your surety bond will be accepted by following the State of Oregon's guide here.

  5. Obtain proof of general liability insurance if you will be hiring employees. Ensure is names the CCB at the Certificate Holder. Click here for information on general liability insurance for contractors.

  6. Obtain workers' compensation insurance if you will be hiring employees.
    1. OHBA members are eligible for workers' comp discounts through SAIF, where you may save up to 3% on services. Contact your local SAIF representative to learn more.
    2. Non-members may reach out directly to their preferred insurance agent, or the Oregon Workers' Compensation Division at 503.378.4988.
    3. Learn more about who is exempt and non-exempt here.

  7. Obtain other employer account numbers.

  8. Complete a CCB licensing application.

  9. Submit your application, and all required documents, at one time. This must include:
    1. The application
    2. Your original bond
    3. Your company's insurance certificate(s)
    4. $400 fee for a two-year license.
    5. Failure to provide all of these at once will likely result in extra processing time, or potential application denial. If you have any questions on what materials you need to ensure an expedited processing time/approval, please contact the CCB directly at [email protected]. 

OHBA can help interested parties with the education portion of this process, but the best resource for any questions on the application process will always be the CCB. Please contact the OHBA office at (503) 378.9066 or [email protected] if you have any questions.

Click here to view the ccb's licensing checklist