Handyman license requirements in Oregon

By PlainJob · Updated October 13, 2026 · 3 min read

Short answer: Oregon requires a Construction Contractors Board (CCB) license for almost all paid construction and repair work. The only exemption is casual, minor work under $1,000 that you don't advertise.

General information, not legal advice. Checked October 13, 2026 against the sources below. Rules change, so confirm with the agency before you take a job.

CCB license

Oregon is one of the strictest states. Anyone paid to build, repair or improve a structure needs a CCB license, which means pre-license training, an exam, a surety bond and liability insurance. The exemption is narrow: casual, minor or inconsequential work where labor and materials together come to less than $1,000, and only if you don't advertise. If you run ads or a website for handyman work, you need the license.

Residential jobs over $2,000 also need a written contract.

Trade work

Electrical, plumbing and HVAC work need separate licenses from the Building Codes Division, at any job size.

Official sources

Oregon Construction Contractors Board

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Questions

Do you need a license to be a handyman in Oregon?

Almost always. Oregon requires a CCB license for paid construction and repair work. The only exemption is casual work under $1,000 that you don't advertise.