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In the state of Oregon, you’ll need a license to install, maintain, alter, repair, or replace limited energy systems. Such systems could include HVAC (thermostat and associated control wiring), boiler controls, medical, intercom and paging, clock, data telecommunication installations, and instrumentation.

There are two types of licenses you can obtain from the Oregon Building Codes Division (BCD) for this type of work: Limited Energy Technician Class A or Class B. 

What is the difference between these two licenses, and what are the requirements to obtain your preferred limited energy electrical license?

Requirements for Class A or B Licenses

As a Class B Limited Energy Technician (LEB), you are allowed to work with limited energy systems that do not include protective signaling (i.e., fire alarms, burglar alarms, nurse calls, etc.). You must be licensed as an electrical contractor or be employed by an electrical contractor or limited energy contractor. Alternatively, you may work exclusively as an employee of a single industrial plant.

A Class A Limited Energy Technician (LEA) may work with all limited energy systems, including those used for electric signaling. This professional must also be an electrical contractor or work for an electrical contractor, a limited energy contractor, or a single industrial plant.

Regardless of the license you wish to obtain, you must meet specific requirements for education and/or experience. In either case, completion of a board-approved apprenticeship program is required, or alternately, an equivalent amount of training and experience.

For a Class A license, you may provide official transcripts verifying 432 hours of suitable classroom training, along with proof of 6,000 hours of on-the-job training (in specific categories). You can qualify for a Class B license by providing verification of 4,000 hours of suitable work experience. If your experience occurred out of state, there will be additional requirements.

What’s Included in State Exams

Professionals taking the Limited Energy Technician Class B Exam will have two hours to complete the open-book test. This exam consists of 28 questions, and you must answer a minimum of 75% correctly in order to pass. 

The Limited Energy Technician Class A Exam is an open-book test consisting of 52 questions. You will have three hours to complete the test, and a passing grade requires that you answer at least 75% of the questions correctly.

How to Prepare for and Pass Exams

The best way to ensure success on your exam is by selecting a state-approved exam prep program. Convenient programs for working professionals will include 24/7 online access that allows you to work at your own pace.

Programs created by industry experts and educators are ideal, and you’ll want to look for inclusions like any math or calculations relevant to testing, a focus on critical information and key concepts, and quizzes and practice exams that ensure you’re well-prepared. Also helpful are professional test-taking tips that teach you to remain calm and focused.

RocketCert is the ultimate resource for professionals preparing to obtain trade licenses. If you’re ready to become a limited energy electrical technician in the state of Oregon, contact us today to learn more about our effective exam prep program.