Handyman Business Permit Requirements in Portland, OR

Complete permit and license guide for starting a handyman business in Portland, Multnomah County, Oregon.

$500 -- $1200 3–6 weeks 3 requirements

Not legal advice. Requirements may change — always verify with your local government authority before applying. Last verified: .

Portland / Multnomah County Requirements

1 requirement
1

Portland Business License

All businesses operating in Portland, including home-based handyman businesses, must obtain a Portland Business License through the Revenue Bureau. Handymen working in Portland must obtain this license before conducting business.

$100–$200/year (varies by gross receipts)1–2 weeks
Official government source

Oregon State Requirements

1 requirement
1

Oregon CCB License (Required for ALL paid construction work)

Oregon requires a Construction Contractors Board (CCB) license for ALL paid construction, alteration, repair, or improvement work — regardless of project size. There is no dollar-amount exemption in Oregon (unlike many other states). The most common license type for handymen is the Residential Limited Contractor (RLC). The CCB application fee as of July 1, 2025 is $400 for a 2-year license. You must also carry a surety bond and general liability insurance. Failure to have a CCB license is a Class A misdemeanor.

$400 (2-year license fee) + surety bond + liability insurance3–6 weeks
Official government source

Federal Requirements

1 requirement
1

EIN (Employer Identification Number)

Required if you have employees or operate as an LLC/corporation. Free from the IRS.

FreeImmediate (online application)
Official government source

Official Sources

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