Tile has become an integral feature in residential and commercial construction in the Beaver State – from Portland's historic Craftsman homes with handcrafted backsplashes to heated porcelain floors in Bend mountain retreats and natural stone showers along the Oregon Coast. Homeowners and businesses love the aesthetic that tile brings to their properties, along with its durability, moisture resistance, and ability to withstand the Pacific Northwest's wet climate.

Skilled tile contractors are in demand, with new residential construction, remodels, and commercial renovations continuing throughout the state. If you’re considering becoming a tile contractor, you’ll likely need to meet several requirements, including becoming licensed through the Oregon Construction Contractors Board (CCB).

Note: Oregon does not issue a separate tile contractor license. Instead, tile contractors obtain the appropriate CCB contractor license based on the type of construction work they perform.

Do Tile Contractors Need a License in Oregon?

Yes. Anyone who advertises, bids on, or performs construction work for compensation in Oregon generally must hold an active CCB license.

Rather than issuing trade-specific licenses, Oregon licenses contractors according to the type of construction work they perform. Most tile installers will apply for one of the following endorsements:

  • Residential Specialty Contractor: Performs specialty work, such as tile installation, on residential structures.
  • Commercial Specialty Contractor: Performs specialty trade work on commercial projects.
  • Residential and Commercial Specialty Contractor: Allows contractors to work in both markets.

Your first decision is what type of contractor you want to be and which endorsement to choose. This will determine your bonding and insurance requirements.

Why Become a Licensed Tile Contractor?

Obtaining your CCB license does more than satisfy a legal requirement. It also helps you:

  • Bid legally on residential and commercial projects
  • Build credibility with homeowners and general contractors
  • Obtain building permits when required
  • Access larger remodeling and commercial projects
  • Protect consumers through Oregon's contractor regulations
  • Grow your business with confidence

Many homeowners and commercial property owners will only hire licensed contractors, making licensure an important business investment.

Eligibility Requirements for Your CCB License

To qualify for an Oregon CCB license, applicants generally must:

  • Be at least 18 years old
  • Select a Responsible Managing Individual (RMI) who will complete the licensing requirements
  • Complete Oregon's required 16-hour pre-license education course
  • Pass the CCB licensing examination
  • Register your business with the Oregon Secretary of State, if applicable
  • Obtain the required Surety Bond
  • Carry the required General Liability insurance
  • Submit the completed application and licensing fee to the CCB

What Is a Responsible Managing Individual (RMI)?

One of the most unique aspects of Oregon's licensing process is the Responsible Managing Individual, or RMI.

The RMI supervises the company's construction activities and ensures the business complies with Oregon contractor laws. This individual must complete the required pre-license education and pass the state licensing examination. The RMI must be either an owner of the business or an employee who manages the company's construction operations.

Every licensed construction business in Oregon must designate an RMI.

How to Become a Tile Contractor in Oregon

Step 1: Complete the Required Pre-License Education

Before applying for your license, your RMI must complete Oregon's required 16-hour pre-license education course offered by a CCB-approved education provider. The course focuses primarily on operating a successful construction business rather than on teaching tile installation techniques. Topics typically include:

  • Oregon construction laws
  • Business practices
  • Contracts
  • Lien laws
  • Estimating
  • Project management
  • Safety responsibilities
  • Consumer protection requirements

After completing the course, the education provider will notify the testing vendor that you're eligible to schedule your examination.

Step 2: Pass the Oregon CCB Licensing Exam

After successfully completing the pre-license course, your RMI must pass the Oregon Construction Contractors Board licensing examination. PSI administers the exam, which is based on the Oregon NASCLA Contractors Guide to Business, Law and Project Management rather than trade-specific tile installation knowledge. Unlike exams in many other states, Oregon's focuses on:

  • Oregon contractor law
  • Business management
  • Contracts
  • Lien rights
  • Financial responsibility
  • Safety
  • Licensing regulations

The current examination fee is $60, paid directly to the testing provider.

Step 3: Register Your Business

If you're operating as an LLC, corporation, or partnership, or if you’re using an assumed business name, you'll need to register your business with the Oregon Secretary of State before submitting your CCB application.

Sole proprietors operating under their legal name generally do not need to register an assumed business name.

Step 4: Choose the Correct License Endorsement

Before applying, determine whether you'll perform:

  • Residential tile work
  • Commercial tile work
  • Both residential and commercial projects

Selecting the proper endorsement is important because it affects your bonding requirements, General Liability insurance limits, and the scope of work your business may perform.

Step 5: Submit Your License Application

Once you've completed the education and examination requirements, you'll submit your application to the CCB. A complete application generally includes:

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Incomplete applications can delay the licensing process, so review your paperwork carefully before submitting it.

How to Obtain Necessary Bonds and Insurance

CCIS can provide you with both the necessary Surety Bond for licensing and General Liability insurance to protect against third-party lawsuits involving bodily injury and property damage. We can also provide Workers’ Compensation insurance.

Note: Oregon updated its contractor bonding and insurance requirements effective January 1, 2024, under House Bill 2922. The law increased minimum bond amounts for several contractor endorsements. For example, the bond requirement for Residential General Contractors increased from $15,000 to $20,000, while the Residential Specialty Contractor bond increased from $10,000 to $15,000.

Frequently Asked Questions About Tile Contractor Licenses in Oregon

Q. What license do I need to perform tile work in Oregon?

A. Oregon does not issue a separate tile contractor license. Instead, tile contractors obtain the appropriate CCB contractor license based on the type of construction work they perform.

Q. How quickly can I secure the necessary bond through CCIS for my contractor licensing?

A. Generally, CCIS can provide you with a bond the same day.

Note: This content is for informational purposes only and is not legal, licensing, or professional advice. Licensing requirements, fees, and regulations may change and vary by individual circumstances. Always verify requirements directly with the Oregon Construction Contractors Board (CCB) or consult a qualified professional. Consult with your legal professional concerning your compliance as to your business operations.