In Oregon the Construction Contractors Board (CCB) regulates licensing and business requirements for locksmiths.
As of July 1, 2010 the Oregon Legislature passed a law requiring locksmiths to be certified by CCB and hold a CCB contractor’s license.
Becoming Certified
An individual wanting to become a locksmith in Oregon must have:
- Not been convicted of a disqualifying crime (typically a felony)
- Submitted an application and fees to CCB (see more below)
- Passed the CCB test (see more below)
- Apply for a construction contractor license (or work for one)
- Follow standards of professional conduct
About the Test
The Locksmith Certification Test is an 80 question, open book test. The CCB uses the “test to 100%” to determine a passing grade. This means in order to be certified you must answer all the exam questions correctly. It’s not as bad as it sounds though.
The CCB allows you to utilize the following references:
After your first attempt through the test any questions answered incorrectly will be displayed on screen at the end of the test. You will have the opportunity to change your answer using the review documents above.
The testing fee is $60 and only offered online.
The Application Process
The application for a locksmith certificate starts online at the following link.
Link: https://portal.ccb.state.or.us/
It’s a very simple 7 step process.
- Register for an account online
- Select “Locksmith Certification” as the service
- Complete the application
- Pay for the application ($60) and the test ($60)
- Take the test we reviewed above
- Complete the “Criminal History Information” section
- Pay for the 2 year certification ($60)
Becoming Licensed
Now that you’re certified you’ll need to become a licensed contractor or work for a licensed contractor.
You can find the licensing information here: http://www.oregon.gov/ccb/pages/licensing_i.aspx
The steps to becoming licensed are pretty standard. Once you are certified you’ll be required to fill out the CCB licensing application ($32), provide proof of general liability insurance and other insurances, and provide your full business name and address.
I have a question because I cant find an answer elsewhere. I’m looking to get Locksmith ID number for the purposes of reprogramming automotive passlock and BCM computers. Some manufacturers, Chrysler and GM to name 2, want a locksmith ID number before they will allow you to receive security information. Do I really need to have to go through all the CCB junk, insurance and such?
Regarding the test to be taken. Does having the opportunity to change the wrong answers to right ones still happens on the first try? Or you will have to retake the test and just know the right answers to the before mistaken questions? Nonetheless, thank you for these instructions!