How to get a General Journeyman Electrician (J) license in Oregon

Oregon electrician licenses

Oregon issues 21 electrician credentials. Each has its own section below; the table shows what each one covers and its headline requirements.

Rules shared by several license levels

These rules are the same for several of the Oregon electrician licenses on this page, so they are shown once here, with the licenses they apply to. Each license's own section lists only what differs.

1. Every license level except Electrical apprentice license (issued by the Oregon Bureau of Labor and Industries; e.g. "Electrician, General Journeyman Apprentice (Inside)")

How to apply

Application form

Form (PDF, oregon.gov)¹⁹²⁰

Renewal

How often

Every 3 years^{3212223242526272889291012131415161718}

Renew online

oregon.gov³⁰

2. Every license level except Electrical Contractor (C), Limited Energy Contractor (CLE), Limited Maintenance Specialty Contractor (LMS), Limited Maintenance Specialty Contractor HVAC/R (LHR), Limited Pump Installation Specialty Contractor (CPI), Limited Renewable Energy Contractor (CLR), Limited Sign Contractor (CLS) and Restricted Energy Contractor (CRE)

Requirements

High school diploma or GED

Required⁴¹

3. Every license level except Electrical apprentice license (issued by the Oregon Bureau of Labor and Industries; e.g. "Electrician, General Journeyman Apprentice (Inside)"), Electrical Contractor (C), Limited Energy Contractor (CLE), Limited Maintenance Specialty Contractor (LMS), Limited Maintenance Specialty Contractor HVAC/R (LHR), Limited Pump Installation Specialty Contractor (CPI), Limited Renewable Energy Contractor (CLR), Limited Sign Contractor (CLS) and Restricted Energy Contractor (CRE)

Requirements

Social Security number

Social Security number required on the application (ORS 25.785), or a signed statement that none has been issued.⁴

Also required

Optional 2x2 passport-style photo is printed on the license card (BCD license is recognized as state ID).³¹

Fees

The board's pages we cite do not list the exam fee.

How to apply

1. Complete an Oregon registered apprenticeship for the license, or document equivalent out-of-state training and experience on the Electrical Experience Verification form (one per employer, hours by OAR 918-282 work category).¹⁹ Form (PDF, oregon.gov)¹⁹
2. On approval BCD mails a Letter of Authorization; call the chosen proctor site and take the open-book exam within 60 days.³¹
3. Results arrive by mail within about two weeks; if you pass, the license is mailed.³²

Renewal

If it expires

Do not work on an expired license; within one year reapply + renewal fee + outstanding CE; after more than one year, apply again and pass the exam.⁴

4. General Journeyman Electrician (J), Limited Energy Technician, Class A (LEA), Limited Energy Technician, Class B (LEB), Limited Journeyman Manufacturing Plant Electrician (PJ), Limited Journeyman Sign Electrician (SIG), Limited Maintenance Electrician (LME), Limited Renewable Energy Technician (LRT), Limited Residential Electrician (LR), General Supervising Electrician (S) and Limited Supervising Electrician (PS)

Renewal

Approved courses

Approved courses/providers only (class, online or correspondence); providers report hours to BCD, visible in License Holder Search within 5-7 business days.⁴

5. Limited Building Maintenance Electrician (BME), Limited Energy Technician, Class A (LEA), Limited Energy Technician, Class B (LEB), Limited Journeyman Manufacturing Plant Electrician (PJ), Limited Journeyman Sign Electrician (SIG), Limited Journeyman Stage Electrician (ST), Limited Maintenance Electrician (LME), Limited Renewable Energy Technician (LRT), Limited Residential Electrician (LR) and Limited Supervising Electrician (PS)

How to apply

Processing time

1 Week^{2122232425262728829}

6. General Journeyman Electrician (J), Limited Building Maintenance Electrician (BME), Limited Energy Technician, Class A (LEA), Limited Energy Technician, Class B (LEB), Limited Journeyman Manufacturing Plant Electrician (PJ), Limited Journeyman Sign Electrician (SIG), Limited Maintenance Electrician (LME), Limited Renewable Energy Technician (LRT) and Limited Residential Electrician (LR)

Requirements

Education or training

Completion of an Oregon approved (BOLI-registered or board-approved) apprenticeship program qualifies directly.⁴²
Who may teach it: Apprenticeship registered with the Oregon Bureau of Labor and Industries or approved by the board; non-registered programs only if they meet the Oregon standard.⁴

7. Electrical apprentice license (issued by the Oregon Bureau of Labor and Industries; e.g. "Electrician, General Journeyman Apprentice (Inside)"), Electrical Contractor (C), Limited Energy Contractor (CLE), Limited Maintenance Specialty Contractor (LMS), Limited Maintenance Specialty Contractor HVAC/R (LHR), Limited Pump Installation Specialty Contractor (CPI), Limited Renewable Energy Contractor (CLR), Limited Sign Contractor (CLS) and Restricted Energy Contractor (CRE)

Requirements

Exam

Not required^{51012131415161718}

8. Electrical Contractor (C), Limited Energy Contractor (CLE), Limited Maintenance Specialty Contractor (LMS), Limited Maintenance Specialty Contractor HVAC/R (LHR), Limited Pump Installation Specialty Contractor (CPI), Limited Renewable Energy Contractor (CLR), Limited Sign Contractor (CLS) and Restricted Energy Contractor (CRE)

Requirements

Experience

No experience for the business itself; it must continuously employ a full-time signing supervising electrician of the type the BCD chart allows (or a qualified person, QP, with verified experience where allowed).²⁰

Surety bond

$2,000⁶ (OPTIONAL fee-payment bond/letter of credit that lets an electrical contractor get working permits before paying job permit fees (amount, not premium))

Also required

Must hold (and keep) an Oregon Construction Contractors Board license; the BCD electrical license is in addition to CCB licensing and bonding.⁴

Also required

Register the business name with the Secretary of State and list CCB licenses on the application.²⁰

Also required

Signing supervisor supervises for only one contractor; notify BCD in writing within five days when a signing supervisor starts or leaves; work stops until a replacement is designated.¹

How to apply

1. Get a Construction Contractors Board license and register the business name with the Secretary of State.⁴

Processing time

1-3 Days^{1012131415161718}

Renewal

If it expires

BCD may suspend or refuse to renew if the CCB license lapses.⁴

From another state

9. General Journeyman Electrician (J), Limited Journeyman Manufacturing Plant Electrician (PJ), Limited Maintenance Electrician (LME), Limited Residential Electrician (LR), General Supervising Electrician (S) and Limited Supervising Electrician (PS)

Renewal

Renewal fee

$100⁴ (Three-year renewal (same as ORS 479.840 license fee))

Late renewal

Reinstatement fee: $100⁴ (expired less than one year: reapply, pay the renewal fee, finish outstanding CE (no separate late penalty in the rule))

10. Limited Building Maintenance Electrician (BME), Limited Energy Technician, Class A (LEA), Limited Energy Technician, Class B (LEB), Limited Journeyman Sign Electrician (SIG), Limited Journeyman Stage Electrician (ST) and Limited Renewable Energy Technician (LRT)

Renewal

Renewal fee

$50⁴ (Three-year renewal (same as ORS 479.840 license fee))

Late renewal

Reinstatement fee: $50⁴ (expired less than one year: reapply, pay the renewal fee, finish outstanding CE (no separate late penalty in the rule))

11. General Journeyman Electrician (J), Limited Journeyman Manufacturing Plant Electrician (PJ), Limited Maintenance Electrician (LME), General Supervising Electrician (S) and Limited Supervising Electrician (PS)

Fees

12. Limited Building Maintenance Electrician (BME), Limited Energy Technician, Class A (LEA), Limited Energy Technician, Class B (LEB), Limited Journeyman Sign Electrician (SIG) and Limited Journeyman Stage Electrician (ST)

Fees

13. Electrical Contractor (C), Limited Energy Contractor (CLE), Limited Renewable Energy Contractor (CLR), Limited Sign Contractor (CLS) and Restricted Energy Contractor (CRE)

Renewal

Renewal fee

$375^1012161718 (Three-year renewal (statutory application/renewal fee is the same))

Late renewal

Reinstatement fee: $375⁴ (expired less than one year)

14. Electrical Contractor (C), Limited Energy Contractor (CLE), Limited Sign Contractor (CLS) and Restricted Energy Contractor (CRE)

Fees

15. General Journeyman Electrician (J), General Supervising Electrician (S) and Limited Supervising Electrician (PS)

Renewal

Continuing education

At least 24 hours each renewal period⁴

16. Limited Energy Technician, Class A (LEA), Limited Energy Technician, Class B (LEB) and Limited Maintenance Electrician (LME)

Renewal

Continuing education

At least 8 hours each renewal period⁴

17. Limited Maintenance Specialty Contractor (LMS), Limited Maintenance Specialty Contractor HVAC/R (LHR) and Limited Pump Installation Specialty Contractor (CPI)

Fees

Renewal

Renewal fee

$75¹³¹⁴¹⁵ (Three-year renewal (statutory application/renewal fee is the same))

Late renewal

Reinstatement fee: $75⁴ (expired less than one year)

18. General Journeyman Electrician (J) and Limited Journeyman Manufacturing Plant Electrician (PJ)

Requirements

Education or training

At least 576 clock hours²
Out-of-state route: official transcripts for 576 hours of related classroom training plus the stated on-the-job hours.²
Alternative: Without the related classroom training, applicants may instead verify twice the required work experience; no more than 2,000 hours count per year; "300 percent rule": at most three times the minimum hours count in any one work category.⁴

19. General Journeyman Electrician (J) and General Supervising Electrician (S)

How to apply

Processing time

2-3 Weeks³⁹

20. Limited Journeyman Manufacturing Plant Electrician (PJ) and Limited Residential Electrician (LR)

Renewal

Continuing education

At least 16 hours each renewal period⁴

21. Limited Journeyman Sign Electrician (SIG) and Limited Renewable Energy Technician (LRT)

Renewal

Continuing education

At least 4 hours each renewal period⁴

22. Limited Maintenance Electrician (LME) and Limited Residential Electrician (LR)

Requirements

Education or training

At least 288 clock hours²
Out-of-state route: official transcripts for 288 hours of related classroom training plus the stated on-the-job hours.²
Alternative: Without the related classroom training, applicants may instead verify twice the required work experience; no more than 2,000 hours count per year; "300 percent rule": at most three times the minimum hours count in any one work category.⁴

Who needs a General Journeyman Electrician (J) license

Make any electrical installation under the supervision, direction, and control of a general supervising electrician, unless doing work that requires the direction of a limited supervising electrician or doing work²

Work that does not need this license:

• No license needed for electrical work on your own residential or farm property (or an immediate family member's) that is not for sale, lease or rent; landlords may do limited maintenance and like-for-like appliance swaps (30 A or less) on rentals. Work must still meet code and permits.⁶
• No license for replacing bulbs, tubes and fuses, plugging portable equipment into proper receptacles, lab/test work, broadcast equipment, or small Class 2/3 systems (100 VA or less) such as single-station smoke detectors, CCTV and MATV in buildings of three stories or less and intercoms in one- and two-family homes.¹
• Utilities, telecom carriers and municipalities working on their own generation/transmission/distribution systems are exempt from the contractor license.⁶

Requirements for a General Journeyman Electrician (J) license

More rules for this license are shared with other levels: group 1, group 2, group 3, group 4, group 6, group 9, group 11, group 15, group 18 and group 19 under Rules shared by several license levels.

Experience

At least 8,000 hours of on-the-job training²
Oregon approved apprenticeship, or 576 classroom hours plus 8,000 hours out-of-state experience (at least 1,000 hours each residential, commercial, industrial), or 16,000 hours out-of-state experience by category.²
Supervision: Apprenticeship hours are worked as a licensed apprentice on the same job site and shift as an appropriately licensed electrician.¹
Substitute: Without the related classroom training, applicants may instead verify twice the required work experience; no more than 2,000 hours count per year; "300 percent rule": at most three times the minimum hours count in any one work category.⁴
Substitute: Only lawful work experience counts (licensed for the work, or employed by a licensed employer where no individual license was required); verified by employer, else supervisor, else co-worker with records.⁴

Exam

Oregon J license exam (open book; approved testing materials list sent with the Letter of Authorization)²
Given by: Building Codes Division exam, proctored at BCD-listed testing sites (mostly community colleges); the site returns the exam to BCD for grading.³²
Passing score: At least 75 percent correct.⁴
When you can take it: BCD must approve the application first; then it mails a Letter of Authorization.⁴
Retakes: No waiting period to reapply, but retakes are scheduled at least 30 days after a failed exam; reapplying needs no new work history unless requirements changed.⁴
Time limit: The exam must be taken within 60 days of the Letter of Authorization.³²
Exam waived: Exam waived for reciprocal licenses (General Journeyman, General Supervising) from agreement states.⁴

How to apply

1. Send the Electrical License Application (box for General Journeyman Electrician (J)) with work history, signed affidavit, exam-site choice, diploma/GED proof, optional 2x2 photo and the fee, as one packet by mail, fax (credit card) or in person - not email.¹⁹ Form (PDF, oregon.gov)¹⁹

Renewal and continuing education

When it expires

Fixed statewide three-year cycle for each license type, expiring October 1: Next renewal date for all J licenses: Oct. 1, 2027. New licensees renew at the next cycle date (prorated CE).³¹

Required topics

BCD CE table columns: ORL = Oregon rule and law, CC = code change, CR = code related; row: General Journeyman Electrician (J) 4 8 12 24. A share must be code-change courses.³³

Moving to Oregon with a license from another state

These are the routes BCD publishes for the General Journeyman Electrician (J) license. The other electrician licenses have their own routes in their sections below.

Electrical apprentice license

May assist an appropriately licensed electrician on the same job site and shift with work in the apprentice's trade branch; final-period apprentices may get an indirect-supervision license (short jobs, limits apply).¹

Requirements

Minimum age

18 years old¹

Education or training

At least 1 year¹
Math prerequisite: one year of high school algebra (or integrated math 2) with C or better (or Pass) for general journeyman, LEA, LEB and limited residential; one year of high school math for other limited branches; or equivalent community college placement results.¹

Also required

Issued to people registered in BOLI-recognized electrical apprenticeship programs, or trainees in board-approved employer programs leading to the limited manufacturing plant journeyman license; reciprocal apprentice licenses for apprentices registered in states party to the apprenticeship reciprocal agreement.¹

Fees

How to apply

1. Apply to a BOLI-registered electrical apprenticeship program (or board-approved employer training program); once registered, BOLI issues the apprentice license.¹

Renewal

When it expires

Renewed automatically for active apprentices and trainees.⁵

Renewal fee

$0⁵

From another state

More rules for this license are shared with other levels: group 2 and group 7 under Rules shared by several license levels.

Limited Building Maintenance Electrician (BME)

Maintain, repair, and replace electrical appliances, light switches and fixtures, fans, receptacles, and fluorescent ballasts on the premises of commercial office buildings, buildings occupied by the state or a local²

Requirements

Experience

At least 2,000 hours of on-the-job training²
Oregon approved one-year training program, or 2,000 hours of maintenance/repair/replacement of appliances, switches, fixtures, fans, receptacles and ballasts.²
Supervision: Apprenticeship hours are worked as a licensed apprentice on the same job site and shift as an appropriately licensed electrician.¹
Substitute: Without the related classroom training, applicants may instead verify twice the required work experience; no more than 2,000 hours count per year; "300 percent rule": at most three times the minimum hours count in any one work category.⁴
Substitute: Only lawful work experience counts (licensed for the work, or employed by a licensed employer where no individual license was required); verified by employer, else supervisor, else co-worker with records.⁴

Exam

Oregon BME license exam (open book; approved testing materials list sent with the Letter of Authorization)²
Given by: Building Codes Division exam, proctored at BCD-listed testing sites (mostly community colleges); the site returns the exam to BCD for grading.³²
Passing score: At least 75 percent correct.⁴
When you can take it: BCD must approve the application first; then it mails a Letter of Authorization.⁴
Retakes: No waiting period to reapply, but retakes are scheduled at least 30 days after a failed exam; reapplying needs no new work history unless requirements changed.⁴
Time limit: The exam must be taken within 60 days of the Letter of Authorization.³²

How to apply

1. Send the Electrical License Application (box for Limited Building Maintenance Electrician (BME)) with work history, signed affidavit, exam-site choice, diploma/GED proof, optional 2x2 photo and the fee, as one packet by mail, fax (credit card) or in person - not email.¹⁹ Form (PDF, oregon.gov)¹⁹

Renewal

When it expires

Fixed statewide three-year cycle for each license type, expiring October 1: Next renewal date for all BME licenses: Oct. 1, 2030. New licensees renew at the next cycle date (prorated CE).³¹

From another state

More rules for this license are shared with other levels: group 1, group 2, group 3, group 5, group 6, group 10 and group 12 under Rules shared by several license levels.

Limited Energy Technician, Class A (LEA)

Install, alter, and repair all limited energy systems. An LEA must be licensed as an electrical contractor or must work for an electrical contractor, limited energy contractor, or for one employer in an industrial²

Requirements

Education or training

At least 432 clock hours²
Out-of-state route: official transcripts for 432 hours of related classroom training plus the stated on-the-job hours.²
Alternative: Without the related classroom training, applicants may instead verify twice the required work experience; no more than 2,000 hours count per year; "300 percent rule": at most three times the minimum hours count in any one work category.⁴

Experience

At least 6,000 hours of on-the-job training²
Oregon approved apprenticeship, or 432 classroom hours plus 6,000 hours by category, or 12,000 hours out of state including protective signalling (fire alarm, nurse call, burglar alarm, life safety).²
Supervision: Apprenticeship hours are worked as a licensed apprentice on the same job site and shift as an appropriately licensed electrician.¹
Substitute: Without the related classroom training, applicants may instead verify twice the required work experience; no more than 2,000 hours count per year; "300 percent rule": at most three times the minimum hours count in any one work category.⁴
Substitute: Only lawful work experience counts (licensed for the work, or employed by a licensed employer where no individual license was required); verified by employer, else supervisor, else co-worker with records.⁴

Exam

Oregon LEA license exam (open book; approved testing materials list sent with the Letter of Authorization)²
Given by: Building Codes Division exam, proctored at BCD-listed testing sites (mostly community colleges); the site returns the exam to BCD for grading.³²
Passing score: At least 75 percent correct.⁴
When you can take it: BCD must approve the application first; then it mails a Letter of Authorization.⁴
Retakes: No waiting period to reapply, but retakes are scheduled at least 30 days after a failed exam; reapplying needs no new work history unless requirements changed.⁴
Time limit: The exam must be taken within 60 days of the Letter of Authorization.³²

How to apply

1. Send the Electrical License Application (box for Limited Energy Technician, Class A (LEA)) with work history, signed affidavit, exam-site choice, diploma/GED proof, optional 2x2 photo and the fee, as one packet by mail, fax (credit card) or in person - not email.¹⁹ Form (PDF, oregon.gov)¹⁹

Renewal

When it expires

Fixed statewide three-year cycle for each license type, expiring October 1: Next renewal date for all LEA licenses: Oct. 1, 2030. New licensees renew at the next cycle date (prorated CE).³¹

Required topics

BCD CE table columns: ORL = Oregon rule and law, CC = code change, CR = code related; row: Limited Energy Technician Class A (LEA) - 8 - 8. A share must be code-change courses.³³

From another state

More rules for this license are shared with other levels: group 1, group 2, group 3, group 4, group 5, group 6, group 10, group 12 and group 16 under Rules shared by several license levels.

Limited Energy Technician, Class B (LEB)

Perform limited energy electrical activity that does not include protective signaling. An LEB must be licensed as an electrical contractor, or must work for an electrical contractor, limited energy contractor, or for²

Requirements

Education or training

32 clock hours²
Equivalent-experience route also needs a board-approved 32-hour training program (may be taken after the application is approved).²
Who may teach it: Board-approved program.²

Experience

At least 4,000 hours of on-the-job training²
Board-approved apprenticeship, or 4,000 hours equivalent experience plus a board-approved 32-hour training program (may follow approval), or 8,000 hours by category (300% rule).²
Supervision: Apprenticeship hours are worked as a licensed apprentice on the same job site and shift as an appropriately licensed electrician.¹
Substitute: Without the related classroom training, applicants may instead verify twice the required work experience; no more than 2,000 hours count per year; "300 percent rule": at most three times the minimum hours count in any one work category.⁴
Substitute: Only lawful work experience counts (licensed for the work, or employed by a licensed employer where no individual license was required); verified by employer, else supervisor, else co-worker with records.⁴

Exam

Oregon LEB license exam (open book; approved testing materials list sent with the Letter of Authorization)²
Given by: Building Codes Division exam, proctored at BCD-listed testing sites (mostly community colleges); the site returns the exam to BCD for grading.³²
Passing score: At least 75 percent correct.⁴
When you can take it: BCD must approve the application first; then it mails a Letter of Authorization.⁴
Retakes: No waiting period to reapply, but retakes are scheduled at least 30 days after a failed exam; reapplying needs no new work history unless requirements changed.⁴
Time limit: The exam must be taken within 60 days of the Letter of Authorization.³²

How to apply

1. Send the Electrical License Application (box for Limited Energy Technician, Class B (LEB)) with work history, signed affidavit, exam-site choice, diploma/GED proof, optional 2x2 photo and the fee, as one packet by mail, fax (credit card) or in person - not email.¹⁹ Form (PDF, oregon.gov)¹⁹

Renewal

When it expires

Fixed statewide three-year cycle for each license type, expiring October 1: Next renewal date for all LEB licenses: Oct. 1, 2030. New licensees renew at the next cycle date (prorated CE).³¹

Required topics

BCD CE table columns: ORL = Oregon rule and law, CC = code change, CR = code related; row: Limited Energy Technician Class B (LEB) - 2 6 8. A share must be code-change courses.³³

From another state

More rules for this license are shared with other levels: group 1, group 2, group 3, group 4, group 5, group 6, group 10, group 12 and group 16 under Rules shared by several license levels.

Limited Journeyman Manufacturing Plant Electrician (PJ)

Install, maintain, replace, and repair electrical wiring and electrical products on or in an existing operable manufacturing plant or industrial plant owned or used by employer. This individual must work under the²

Requirements

Experience

At least 8,000 hours of on-the-job training²
Oregon approved apprenticeship, or 576 classroom hours plus 8,000 hours commercial/industrial experience out of state, or 16,000 hours (300% rule).²
Supervision: Apprenticeship hours are worked as a licensed apprentice on the same job site and shift as an appropriately licensed electrician.¹
Substitute: Without the related classroom training, applicants may instead verify twice the required work experience; no more than 2,000 hours count per year; "300 percent rule": at most three times the minimum hours count in any one work category.⁴
Substitute: Only lawful work experience counts (licensed for the work, or employed by a licensed employer where no individual license was required); verified by employer, else supervisor, else co-worker with records.⁴

Exam

Oregon PJ license exam (open book; approved testing materials list sent with the Letter of Authorization)²
Given by: Building Codes Division exam, proctored at BCD-listed testing sites (mostly community colleges); the site returns the exam to BCD for grading.³²
Passing score: At least 75 percent correct.⁴
When you can take it: BCD must approve the application first; then it mails a Letter of Authorization.⁴
Retakes: No waiting period to reapply, but retakes are scheduled at least 30 days after a failed exam; reapplying needs no new work history unless requirements changed.⁴
Time limit: The exam must be taken within 60 days of the Letter of Authorization.³²

How to apply

1. Send the Electrical License Application (box for Limited Journeyman Manufacturing Plant Electrician (PJ)) with work history, signed affidavit, exam-site choice, diploma/GED proof, optional 2x2 photo and the fee, as one packet by mail, fax (credit card) or in person - not email.¹⁹ Form (PDF, oregon.gov)¹⁹

Renewal

When it expires

Fixed statewide three-year cycle for each license type, expiring October 1: Next renewal date for all PJ licenses: Oct. 1, 2030. New licensees renew at the next cycle date (prorated CE).³¹

Required topics

BCD CE table columns: ORL = Oregon rule and law, CC = code change, CR = code related; row: Limited Journeyman Mfg Plant Electrician (PJ) 4 8 4 16. A share must be code-change courses.³³

From another state

More rules for this license are shared with other levels: group 1, group 2, group 3, group 4, group 5, group 6, group 9, group 11, group 18 and group 20 under Rules shared by several license levels.

Limited Journeyman Sign Electrician (SIG)

Install and service electrical signs and outline lighting. (Must be employed by a limited sign²

Requirements

Experience

At least 4,000 hours of on-the-job training²
Oregon approved apprenticeship, or classroom training transcripts plus 4,000 hours sign experience out of state, or 8,000 hours by category; statute: at least two years in the sign branch.²
Supervision: Apprenticeship hours are worked as a licensed apprentice on the same job site and shift as an appropriately licensed electrician.¹
Substitute: Without the related classroom training, applicants may instead verify twice the required work experience; no more than 2,000 hours count per year; "300 percent rule": at most three times the minimum hours count in any one work category.⁴
Substitute: Only lawful work experience counts (licensed for the work, or employed by a licensed employer where no individual license was required); verified by employer, else supervisor, else co-worker with records.⁴

Exam

Oregon SIG license exam (open book; approved testing materials list sent with the Letter of Authorization)²
Given by: Building Codes Division exam, proctored at BCD-listed testing sites (mostly community colleges); the site returns the exam to BCD for grading.³²
Passing score: At least 75 percent correct.⁴
When you can take it: BCD must approve the application first; then it mails a Letter of Authorization.⁴
Retakes: No waiting period to reapply, but retakes are scheduled at least 30 days after a failed exam; reapplying needs no new work history unless requirements changed.⁴
Time limit: The exam must be taken within 60 days of the Letter of Authorization.³²

How to apply

1. Send the Electrical License Application (box for Limited Journeyman Sign Electrician (SIG)) with work history, signed affidavit, exam-site choice, diploma/GED proof, optional 2x2 photo and the fee, as one packet by mail, fax (credit card) or in person - not email.¹⁹ Form (PDF, oregon.gov)¹⁹

Renewal

When it expires

Fixed statewide three-year cycle for each license type, expiring October 1: Next renewal date for all SIG licenses: Oct. 1, 2030. New licensees renew at the next cycle date (prorated CE).³¹

Required topics

BCD CE table columns: ORL = Oregon rule and law, CC = code change, CR = code related; row: Limited Journeyman Sign Electrician (SIG) - 2 2 4. A share must be code-change courses.³³

From another state

More rules for this license are shared with other levels: group 1, group 2, group 3, group 4, group 5, group 6, group 10, group 12 and group 21 under Rules shared by several license levels.

Limited Journeyman Stage Electrician (ST)

Install temporary feeders, branch circuits, and equipment used for the production of shows, exhibits, displays, festivals, conventions, stage, theater, film, or video productions; perform maintenance on temporary²

Requirements

Education or training

At least 150 clock hours²
Out-of-state route: official transcripts for 150 hours of related classroom training plus the stated on-the-job hours.²
Alternative: Without the related classroom training, applicants may instead verify twice the required work experience; no more than 2,000 hours count per year; "300 percent rule": at most three times the minimum hours count in any one work category.⁴

Experience

At least 4,000 hours of on-the-job training²
150 classroom hours plus 4,000 hours out-of-state stage experience, or 8,000 hours stage experience by category; statute: at least two years in the stage branch.²
Supervision: Apprenticeship hours are worked as a licensed apprentice on the same job site and shift as an appropriately licensed electrician.¹
Substitute: Without the related classroom training, applicants may instead verify twice the required work experience; no more than 2,000 hours count per year; "300 percent rule": at most three times the minimum hours count in any one work category.⁴
Substitute: Only lawful work experience counts (licensed for the work, or employed by a licensed employer where no individual license was required); verified by employer, else supervisor, else co-worker with records.⁴

Exam

Oregon ST license exam (open book; approved testing materials list sent with the Letter of Authorization)²
Given by: Building Codes Division exam, proctored at BCD-listed testing sites (mostly community colleges); the site returns the exam to BCD for grading.³²
Passing score: At least 75 percent correct.⁴
When you can take it: BCD must approve the application first; then it mails a Letter of Authorization.⁴
Retakes: No waiting period to reapply, but retakes are scheduled at least 30 days after a failed exam; reapplying needs no new work history unless requirements changed.⁴
Time limit: The exam must be taken within 60 days of the Letter of Authorization.³²

How to apply

1. Send the Electrical License Application (box for Limited Journeyman Stage Electrician (ST)) with work history, signed affidavit, exam-site choice, diploma/GED proof, optional 2x2 photo and the fee, as one packet by mail, fax (credit card) or in person - not email.¹⁹ Form (PDF, oregon.gov)¹⁹

Renewal

When it expires

Fixed statewide three-year cycle for each license type, expiring October 1: Next renewal date for all ST licenses: Oct. 1, 2030. New licensees renew at the next cycle date (prorated CE).³¹

From another state

More rules for this license are shared with other levels: group 1, group 2, group 3, group 5, group 10 and group 12 under Rules shared by several license levels.

Limited Maintenance Electrician (LME)

Repair and maintain existing electrical installations on or in an existing operable plant, commercial building, or institution. An LME is not authorized to make new electrical installations or to perform work on²

Requirements

Experience

At least 4,000 hours of on-the-job training²
Oregon approved apprenticeship, or 288 classroom hours plus 4,000 hours out-of-state experience, or 8,000 hours by work category.²
Supervision: Apprenticeship hours are worked as a licensed apprentice on the same job site and shift as an appropriately licensed electrician.¹
Substitute: Without the related classroom training, applicants may instead verify twice the required work experience; no more than 2,000 hours count per year; "300 percent rule": at most three times the minimum hours count in any one work category.⁴
Substitute: Only lawful work experience counts (licensed for the work, or employed by a licensed employer where no individual license was required); verified by employer, else supervisor, else co-worker with records.⁴

Exam

Oregon LME license exam (open book; approved testing materials list sent with the Letter of Authorization)²
Given by: Building Codes Division exam, proctored at BCD-listed testing sites (mostly community colleges); the site returns the exam to BCD for grading.³²
Passing score: At least 75 percent correct.⁴
When you can take it: BCD must approve the application first; then it mails a Letter of Authorization.⁴
Retakes: No waiting period to reapply, but retakes are scheduled at least 30 days after a failed exam; reapplying needs no new work history unless requirements changed.⁴
Time limit: The exam must be taken within 60 days of the Letter of Authorization.³²

How to apply

1. Send the Electrical License Application (box for Limited Maintenance Electrician (LME)) with work history, signed affidavit, exam-site choice, diploma/GED proof, optional 2x2 photo and the fee, as one packet by mail, fax (credit card) or in person - not email.¹⁹ Form (PDF, oregon.gov)¹⁹

Renewal

When it expires

Fixed statewide three-year cycle for each license type, expiring October 1: Next renewal date for all LME licenses: Oct. 1, 2030. New licensees renew at the next cycle date (prorated CE).³¹

Required topics

BCD CE table columns: ORL = Oregon rule and law, CC = code change, CR = code related; row: Limited Maintenance Electrician (LME) - 2 6 8. A share must be code-change courses.³³

From another state

More rules for this license are shared with other levels: group 1, group 2, group 3, group 4, group 5, group 6, group 9, group 11, group 16 and group 22 under Rules shared by several license levels.

Limited Renewable Energy Technician (LRT)

Make renewable energy system installations (Must be employed by a limited renewable energy contractor or electrical²

Requirements

Experience

Only route: completion of an approved Oregon apprenticeship program.²
Supervision: Apprenticeship hours are worked as a licensed apprentice on the same job site and shift as an appropriately licensed electrician.¹
Substitute: Without the related classroom training, applicants may instead verify twice the required work experience; no more than 2,000 hours count per year; "300 percent rule": at most three times the minimum hours count in any one work category.⁴
Substitute: Only lawful work experience counts (licensed for the work, or employed by a licensed employer where no individual license was required); verified by employer, else supervisor, else co-worker with records.⁴

Exam

Oregon LRT license exam (open book; approved testing materials list sent with the Letter of Authorization)²
Given by: Building Codes Division exam, proctored at BCD-listed testing sites (mostly community colleges); the site returns the exam to BCD for grading.³²
Passing score: At least 75 percent correct.⁴
When you can take it: BCD must approve the application first; then it mails a Letter of Authorization.⁴
Retakes: No waiting period to reapply, but retakes are scheduled at least 30 days after a failed exam; reapplying needs no new work history unless requirements changed.⁴
Time limit: The exam must be taken within 60 days of the Letter of Authorization.³²

Fees

How to apply

1. Send the Electrical License Application (box for Limited Renewable Energy Technician (LRT)) with work history, signed affidavit, exam-site choice, diploma/GED proof, optional 2x2 photo and the fee, as one packet by mail, fax (credit card) or in person - not email.¹⁹ Form (PDF, oregon.gov)¹⁹

Renewal

When it expires

Fixed statewide three-year cycle for each license type, expiring October 1: Next renewal date for all LRT licenses: Oct. 1, 2030. New licensees renew at the next cycle date (prorated CE).³¹

Required topics

BCD CE table columns: ORL = Oregon rule and law, CC = code change, CR = code related; row: Limited Renewable Energy Technician (LRT) - 2 2 4. A share must be code-change courses.³³

From another state

More rules for this license are shared with other levels: group 1, group 2, group 3, group 4, group 5, group 6, group 10 and group 21 under Rules shared by several license levels.

Limited Residential Electrician (LR)

Make electrical installations on one- and two-family or multi-family dwelling units, not exceeding three floors above grade. Must work under the supervision, direction, and control of a general supervising²

Requirements

Experience

At least 4,000 hours of on-the-job training²
Oregon approved apprenticeship, or 288 classroom hours plus 4,000 hours residential experience out of state, or 8,000 hours residential (300% rule).²
Supervision: Apprenticeship hours are worked as a licensed apprentice on the same job site and shift as an appropriately licensed electrician.¹
Substitute: Without the related classroom training, applicants may instead verify twice the required work experience; no more than 2,000 hours count per year; "300 percent rule": at most three times the minimum hours count in any one work category.⁴
Substitute: Only lawful work experience counts (licensed for the work, or employed by a licensed employer where no individual license was required); verified by employer, else supervisor, else co-worker with records.⁴

Exam

Oregon LR license exam (open book; approved testing materials list sent with the Letter of Authorization)²
Given by: Building Codes Division exam, proctored at BCD-listed testing sites (mostly community colleges); the site returns the exam to BCD for grading.³²
Passing score: At least 75 percent correct.⁴
When you can take it: BCD must approve the application first; then it mails a Letter of Authorization.⁴
Retakes: No waiting period to reapply, but retakes are scheduled at least 30 days after a failed exam; reapplying needs no new work history unless requirements changed.⁴
Time limit: The exam must be taken within 60 days of the Letter of Authorization.³²

Fees

How to apply

1. Send the Electrical License Application (box for Limited Residential Electrician (LR)) with work history, signed affidavit, exam-site choice, diploma/GED proof, optional 2x2 photo and the fee, as one packet by mail, fax (credit card) or in person - not email.¹⁹ Form (PDF, oregon.gov)¹⁹

Renewal

When it expires

Fixed statewide three-year cycle for each license type, expiring October 1: Next renewal date for all LR licenses: Oct. 1, 2027. New licensees renew at the next cycle date (prorated CE).³¹

Required topics

BCD CE table columns: ORL = Oregon rule and law, CC = code change, CR = code related; row: Limited Residential Electrician (LR) 4 8 4 16. A share must be code-change courses.³³

From another state

More rules for this license are shared with other levels: group 1, group 2, group 3, group 4, group 5, group 6, group 9, group 20 and group 22 under Rules shared by several license levels.

General Supervising Electrician (S)

Design, plan, and lay out work and sign all permits. The only individual authorized to direct, supervise, or control the installation or alteration of an electrical²

Requirements

Experience

At least 8,000 hours of on-the-job training²
Oregon journeyman license plus 8,000 more hours of journeyman-level experience (or J-level qualifications plus 8,000 hours, 300% rule); statute: at least four years as a general journeyman or equivalent.²
Supervision: Apprenticeship hours are worked as a licensed apprentice on the same job site and shift as an appropriately licensed electrician.¹
Substitute: Without the related classroom training, applicants may instead verify twice the required work experience; no more than 2,000 hours count per year; "300 percent rule": at most three times the minimum hours count in any one work category.⁴
Substitute: Only lawful work experience counts (licensed for the work, or employed by a licensed employer where no individual license was required); verified by employer, else supervisor, else co-worker with records.⁴

Exam

Oregon S license exam (open book; approved testing materials list sent with the Letter of Authorization)²
Given by: Building Codes Division exam, proctored at BCD-listed testing sites (mostly community colleges); the site returns the exam to BCD for grading.³²
Passing score: At least 75 percent correct.⁴
When you can take it: BCD must approve the application first; then it mails a Letter of Authorization.⁴
Two sections: 52 code questions and 12 calculation questions (4 hours).⁹
Retakes: No waiting period to reapply, but retakes are scheduled at least 30 days after a failed exam; reapplying needs no new work history unless requirements changed.⁴
Time limit: The exam must be taken within 60 days of the Letter of Authorization.³²
Exam waived: Exam waived for reciprocal licenses (General Journeyman, General Supervising) from agreement states.⁴

How to apply

1. Send the Electrical License Application (box for General Supervising Electrician (S)) with work history, signed affidavit, exam-site choice, diploma/GED proof, optional 2x2 photo and the fee, as one packet by mail, fax (credit card) or in person - not email.¹⁹ Form (PDF, oregon.gov)¹⁹

Renewal

When it expires

Fixed statewide three-year cycle for each license type, expiring October 1: Next renewal date for all S licenses: Oct. 1, 2028. New licensees renew at the next cycle date (prorated CE).³¹

Required topics

BCD CE table columns: ORL = Oregon rule and law, CC = code change, CR = code related; row: General Supervising Electrician (S) 4 12 8 24. A share must be code-change courses.³³

From another state

More rules for this license are shared with other levels: group 1, group 2, group 3, group 4, group 9, group 11, group 15 and group 19 under Rules shared by several license levels.

Limited Supervising Electrician (PS)

Design, plan, and lay out work; sign all permits; licensee is the only individual authorized to direct, supervise, or control the installation, maintenance, replacement, and repair of electrical wiring and electrical²

Requirements

Experience

At least 8,000 hours of on-the-job training²
Oregon limited journeyman manufacturing plant (PJ) license plus 8,000 more hours of plant journeyman experience (or PJ-level qualifications plus 8,000 hours out of state, 300% rule).²
Supervision: Apprenticeship hours are worked as a licensed apprentice on the same job site and shift as an appropriately licensed electrician.¹
Substitute: Without the related classroom training, applicants may instead verify twice the required work experience; no more than 2,000 hours count per year; "300 percent rule": at most three times the minimum hours count in any one work category.⁴
Substitute: Only lawful work experience counts (licensed for the work, or employed by a licensed employer where no individual license was required); verified by employer, else supervisor, else co-worker with records.⁴

Exam

Oregon PS license exam (open book; approved testing materials list sent with the Letter of Authorization)²
Given by: Building Codes Division exam, proctored at BCD-listed testing sites (mostly community colleges); the site returns the exam to BCD for grading.³²
Passing score: At least 75 percent correct.⁴
When you can take it: BCD must approve the application first; then it mails a Letter of Authorization.⁴
Retakes: No waiting period to reapply, but retakes are scheduled at least 30 days after a failed exam; reapplying needs no new work history unless requirements changed.⁴
Time limit: The exam must be taken within 60 days of the Letter of Authorization.³²

How to apply

1. Send the Electrical License Application (box for Limited Supervising Electrician (PS)) with work history, signed affidavit, exam-site choice, diploma/GED proof, optional 2x2 photo and the fee, as one packet by mail, fax (credit card) or in person - not email.¹⁹ Form (PDF, oregon.gov)¹⁹

Renewal

When it expires

Fixed statewide three-year cycle for each license type, expiring October 1: Next renewal date for all PS licenses: Oct. 1, 2028. New licensees renew at the next cycle date (prorated CE).³¹

Required topics

BCD CE table columns: ORL = Oregon rule and law, CC = code change, CR = code related; row: Limited Supervising Electrician (PS) 4 12 8 24. A share must be code-change courses.³³

From another state

More rules for this license are shared with other levels: group 1, group 2, group 3, group 4, group 5, group 9, group 11 and group 15 under Rules shared by several license levels.

Electrical Contractor (C)

Company license: Any electrical installations by the business; requires a full-time general supervising electrician (S) as signing supervisor, and individual electrical licenses for the workers.¹

How to apply

1. Complete the Contractor/Business License Application (form 2888), tick C, list CCB and previous licenses, designate the signing supervisor (form 2888-C for a qualified person), and mail or fax the packet with the fee.²⁰ Form (PDF, oregon.gov)²⁰

Renewal

When it expires

Fixed three-year cycle; next renewal for all C licenses July 1, 2029.¹¹

More rules for this license are shared with other levels: group 1, group 7, group 8, group 13 and group 14 under Rules shared by several license levels.

Limited Energy Contractor (CLE)

Company license: Full-time LEA, LEB or general journeyman as signing supervisor; work limited to limited energy systems within the supervisor's license.¹¹

How to apply

1. Complete the Contractor/Business License Application (form 2888), tick CLE, list CCB and previous licenses, designate the signing supervisor (form 2888-C for a qualified person), and mail or fax the packet with the fee.²⁰ Form (PDF, oregon.gov)²⁰

Renewal

When it expires

Fixed three-year cycle; next renewal for all CLE licenses July 1, 2029.¹¹

More rules for this license are shared with other levels: group 1, group 7, group 8, group 13 and group 14 under Rules shared by several license levels.

Limited Maintenance Specialty Contractor (LMS)

Company license: Replacement-appliance connections to existing boxes and lighting-fixture part replacement only (no services, feeders or branch circuits); must list employees.¹¹

How to apply

1. Complete the Contractor/Business License Application (form 2888), tick LMS, list CCB and previous licenses, designate the signing supervisor (form 2888-C for a qualified person) and attach an employee list, and mail or fax the packet with the fee.²⁰ Form (PDF, oregon.gov)²⁰

Renewal

When it expires

Fixed three-year cycle; next renewal for all LMS licenses July 1, 2029.¹¹

More rules for this license are shared with other levels: group 1, group 7, group 8 and group 17 under Rules shared by several license levels.

Limited Maintenance Specialty Contractor HVAC/R (LHR)

Company license: Maintain, service, repair or replace commercial/industrial heating, power, refrigeration or air-conditioning equipment; must list employees.¹¹

How to apply

1. Complete the Contractor/Business License Application (form 2888), tick LHR, list CCB and previous licenses, designate the signing supervisor (form 2888-C for a qualified person) and attach an employee list, and mail or fax the packet with the fee.²⁰ Form (PDF, oregon.gov)²⁰

Renewal

When it expires

Fixed three-year cycle; next renewal for all LHR licenses July 1, 2029.¹¹

More rules for this license are shared with other levels: group 1, group 7, group 8 and group 17 under Rules shared by several license levels.

Limited Pump Installation Specialty Contractor (CPI)

Company license: Pump equipment work on residential and agricultural property, branch circuits from the load side of an external disconnect only.¹¹

How to apply

1. Complete the Contractor/Business License Application (form 2888), tick CPI, list CCB and previous licenses, designate the signing supervisor (form 2888-C for a qualified person), and mail or fax the packet with the fee.²⁰ Form (PDF, oregon.gov)²⁰

Renewal

When it expires

Fixed three-year cycle; next renewal for all CPI licenses July 1, 2029.¹¹

More rules for this license are shared with other levels: group 1, group 7, group 8 and group 17 under Rules shared by several license levels.

Limited Renewable Energy Contractor (CLR)

Company license: Renewable energy installations limited to 25 kVA and 600 V nominal or less; signing supervisor per BCD chart (S, J or LRT).¹¹

Fees

How to apply

1. Complete the Contractor/Business License Application (form 2888), tick CLR, list CCB and previous licenses, designate the signing supervisor (form 2888-C for a qualified person), and mail or fax the packet with the fee.²⁰ Form (PDF, oregon.gov)²⁰

Renewal

When it expires

Fixed three-year cycle; next renewal for all CLR licenses July 1, 2029.¹¹

More rules for this license are shared with other levels: group 1, group 7, group 8 and group 13 under Rules shared by several license levels.

Limited Sign Contractor (CLS)

Company license: Full-time limited journeyman sign electrician, general journeyman or general supervising electrician as signing supervisor; sign work only.¹¹

How to apply

1. Complete the Contractor/Business License Application (form 2888), tick CLS, list CCB and previous licenses, designate the signing supervisor (form 2888-C for a qualified person), and mail or fax the packet with the fee.²⁰ Form (PDF, oregon.gov)²⁰

Renewal

When it expires

Fixed three-year cycle; next renewal for all CLS licenses July 1, 2029.¹¹

More rules for this license are shared with other levels: group 1, group 7, group 8, group 13 and group 14 under Rules shared by several license levels.

Restricted Energy Contractor (CRE)

Company license: HVAC electrical activities only; must list employees; signing supervisor per BCD chart.¹¹

How to apply

1. Complete the Contractor/Business License Application (form 2888), tick CRE, list CCB and previous licenses, designate the signing supervisor (form 2888-C for a qualified person) and attach an employee list, and mail or fax the packet with the fee.²⁰ Form (PDF, oregon.gov)²⁰

Renewal

When it expires

Fixed three-year cycle; next renewal for all CRE licenses July 1, 2029.¹¹

More rules for this license are shared with other levels: group 1, group 7, group 8, group 13 and group 14 under Rules shared by several license levels.

City and county rules

Electrical apprentice license (issued by the Oregon Bureau of Labor and Industries; e.g. "Electrician, General Journeyman Apprentice (Inside)")Statewide BCD license; local building departments administer electrical permits and inspections under the state code.⁶

Check a license or report a problem

Before you hire an electrician in Oregon, you can confirm the license is current on the board's own search. Every board we cover in Oregon is on the Oregon license lookup page.

Look up a license

oregon.gov³¹

Laws and rules

The requirements above come from these laws and board rules.

• ORS 479.510 to 479.945 (Electrical Safety Law), incl. ORS 479.540 exemptions, 479.630 license requirements, 479.840 fees
• OAR 918-282 (Electrical and Elevator Licensing): 918-282-0170
• OAR 918-030 (General Licensing Requirements: application, reciprocity 918-030-0045, CE 918-030-0100 to -0150, renewal 918-030-0200 to -0230)
• ORS 479.840
• OAR 918-282 (Electrical and Elevator Licensing): 918-282-0270
• OAR 918-282 (Electrical and Elevator Licensing): 918-282-0260
• OAR 918-282 (Electrical and Elevator Licensing): 918-282-0345, 918-282-0355
• OAR 918-282 (Electrical and Elevator Licensing): 918-282-0360, 918-282-0365
• OAR 918-282 (Electrical and Elevator Licensing): 918-282-0190, 918-282-0200
• OAR 918-282 (Electrical and Elevator Licensing): 918-282-0220
• OAR 918-282 (Electrical and Elevator Licensing): 918-282-0230
• OAR 918-282 (Electrical and Elevator Licensing): 918-282-0240
• OAR 918-282 (Electrical and Elevator Licensing): 918-282-0205, 918-282-0400
• OAR 918-282 (Electrical and Elevator Licensing): 918-282-0180
• OAR 918-282 (Electrical and Elevator Licensing): 918-282-0140, 918-282-0150
• OAR 918-282 (Electrical and Elevator Licensing): 918-282-0150, 918-282-0160
• OAR 918-282 (Electrical and Elevator Licensing): 918-282-0010, 918-282-0015
• OAR 918-282 (Electrical and Elevator Licensing): 918-282-0030, 918-282-0015
• OAR 918-282 (Electrical and Elevator Licensing): 918-282-0050, 918-282-0015
• OAR 918-282 (Electrical and Elevator Licensing): 918-282-0040, 918-282-0015
• OAR 918-282 (Electrical and Elevator Licensing): 918-282-0070, 918-282-0015
• OAR 918-282 (Electrical and Elevator Licensing): 918-282-0033, 918-282-0015
• OAR 918-282 (Electrical and Elevator Licensing): 918-282-0020, 918-282-0015
• OAR 918-282 (Electrical and Elevator Licensing): 918-282-0060, 918-282-0015

Common questions

Electrician licenses in other states

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