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The construction industry in Oregon is booming, and for contractors, that means there are plenty of work opportunities. But to take advantage of those opportunities, Oregon residents need to obtain an Oregon contractor’s license.

This article will look at how you can obtain an Oregon contractor’s license, including the different license classifications. We’ll also look at how you could benefit from RocketCert’s pre-licensing classes and exam prep to help make getting your contractor’s license as easy as possible.

Types of Oregon Contractor’s Licenses

If you’re being paid for construction work in Oregon, you’ll need a contractor’s license. For contractors in Oregon, there are four different types of contractor’s licenses:

Residential

While these contractors focus primarily on single-family homes and other residential structures, they’re also qualified for smaller commercial properties.

Commercial

These contractors are qualified to work on all commercial structures, regardless of size, trade, or building type. There are two endorsement levels; however, the main difference between these two endorsements is the number of years of experience, with Level 2 endorsement requiring eight years and Level 1 requiring only four.

Residential Specialty

This license allows a contractor to perform one or two unrelated trades in a single project.

Dual Endorsement

Dual endorsement licenses allow contractors to work on commercial and residential buildings, allowing them to apply their trade in almost any situation.

Required Classes and Exams

The first step in becoming a licensed Oregon contractor is a pre-licensing course. This course, which requires 16 hours to complete, is intended to ensure that you have the skills and knowledge you need to successfully pass the contractor’s exam. 

At RocketCert, our 16-hour pre-licensing course is state-approved, and because it’s online, you can access it anywhere you have an internet connection. You can work on your course at any time, and with lifetime access, you’ll always be able to go back and review the material.

Contractors also need to pass the state contractor exam for residential or commercial contractors. The state exam involves answering 80 questions over 3 hours, with 70% required to pass. 

The test is also open book, and while you can’t use the online course during the exam, you can use the printed reference manual that comes with your RocketCert bundle — which also includes a highlighting guide to help focus your studying.

Other Requirements for Getting an Oregon Contractor’s License

Once you pass your test, you’ll need to satisfy some legal requirements to ensure that your business meets state regulations. These factors include:

• Surety bonds
• Proof of liability insurance
• Workers Compensation insurance (if you have employees)

The required amount of insurance varies depending on the type of certification you’re aiming for, so make sure to check the Oregon state requirements before you apply for your license.

If you’re considering getting an Oregon contractor’s license, let RocketCert help you pass your exams. In addition to our subject experts, we offer our No Pass, No Pay guarantee. From earning your contractor’s license to renewing your credentials, RocketCert has the resources you need to succeed!