To perform landscaping work in Oregon, most applicants need both an individual landscape construction professional license and a landscape contracting business license. The steps below explain how to qualify, apply, and complete the required exams.
Understand the Licensing Process
Before you apply, it’s important to understand the two types of licenses required in Oregon:
-
Individual License (Landscape Construction Professional – LCP)
Required to supervise landscaping work and pass the licensing exam. -
Business License (Landscape Contracting Business – LCB)
Required to legally contract and perform landscaping work.
Note: Most applicants begin with the individual license, as it is required before applying for a business license.
Helpful Videos
These short videos walk you through the licensing process, including the difference between individual and business licenses and how to get started.
Step 1: Apply for an Individual License (LCP)
Follow these steps to apply for your individual landscape construction professional license:
1. Review Qualification Requirements
Before applying, review exam requirements, qualifications, and license phases to determine your eligibility.
2. Submit Your Application
To complete your application, access all required forms and supporting documents on the Forms and Applications page.
Go to Forms and Applications
Ir a la página de Formularios y Solicitudes
Your application will be reviewed by the Landscape Contractors Board.
Processing time: Allow 5 business days for the individual LCP application.
If additional information is needed, you will be contacted.
3. Receive Approval and ID Number
Once your application is approved, you will receive an identification number. You will use this ID number to schedule your exam.
4. Study for the Exam
Prepare for the required exam using the materials and guidance provided.
5. Schedule and Pass the Exam
Schedule your exam with PSI (approved testing provider).
6. Obtain Your Individual License
After passing all required exam sections:
- Contact the
Landscape Contractors Board.
- Submit your
license fee by using the link emailed to you.
- Your license will be issued after verification of exam scores.
Step 2: Apply for a Business License (LCB)
A landscape contracting business must be owned by or employ a licensed Landscape Construction Professional (LCP) to supervise all landscaping work.
After obtaining your individual license, follow these steps to apply for a business license:
1. Choose a Business Structure
Select a business entity, such as a sole proprietorship, LLC, or corporation. Consider consulting a legal or financial professional.
2. Register Your Business
Register your business entity or assumed business name.
3. Set Up Tax Accounts
Set up accounts with:
4. Obtain Insurance, Bond, and Workers’ Compensation
Businesses must have both liability insurance and a surety bond. Some businesses may also need workers’ compensation insurance.
Find the surety bond forms on the
Forms and Applications page.
-
Liability Insurance
Minimum coverage: $500,000.
Purpose: Protects the customer or public if property damage, injury, or other covered loss occurs. -
Surety Bond
Effective January 1, 2026:
- $20,000 bond for standard businesses
- $15,000 bond for probationary license holders
Purpose: Protects consumers if the contractor fails to meet contract obligations. -
Employment Verification Form
Business applicants must complete an
employment verification form (part of the business application, and it must be notarized.
Purpose: Verifies that the business is properly connected to a licensed Landscape Construction Professional (LCP) who oversees the work. -
Workers’ Compensation Insurance (if applicable)
Purpose: Ensures employees are covered for job-related injuries or illnesses and that the business meets state legal requirements.
5. Apply for the Business License
To complete your LCB application, access all required forms and supporting documents on the Forms and Applications page.
Go to Forms and Applications
Ir a la página de Formularios y Solicitudes
Your application will be reviewed by the Landscape Contractors Board. To reduce the time it takes to approve your license,
apply online and make sure your application is complete with all the required information and forms.
Processing time: Allow 10 business days for the review of a complete business application.
Submit the application along with:
- Proof of insurance
- Bond documentation
- Business formation documents
6. Receive Your Business License
Applications are typically processed within approximately 10 business days.
If additional information is required, you will be contacted.
Before you begin work:
Forms and Applications
To ensure you are using the most current forms and documents, all applications and supporting materials are available on the Forms and Applications page.
Visit the Forms and Applications page to find application forms, verification documents, and other required materials.
Spanish Language Resources
Some application materials, exam resources, and additional documents are available in Spanish.
To access Spanish-language forms and resources, visit the
Español Documents page.
Algunos formularios de solicitud, materiales del examen y recursos adicionales están disponibles en español.
Para acceder a los formularios y recursos en español, visite la
página de Formularios y Solicitudes.
Help and Support
If you have questions about licensing requirements or the application process, contact the Landscape Contractors Board:
Phone: 503-967-6291
Email:
LCB.Info@lcb.oregon.gov