At-A-Glance: Oregon Commercial General Contractor Bond
The Oregon Construction Contractors Board (CCB) requires commercial general contractors operating in Oregon to carry a surety bond — commonly called the Oregon Commercial General Contractor Bond — as a condition of licensing. The bond amount depends on the contractor’s license classification (for example, $80,000 for a Level 1 commercial general contractor, or $25,000 for a Level 2). The bond is a financial guarantee that if the contractor fails to comply with state construction laws, breaches a contract, or fails to pay money owed under a CCB order, the surety will cover those obligations up to the bond’s limit. This requirement helps protect property owners, subcontractors, and the public against losses stemming from faulty work, fraud, or nonpayment, while holding contractors accountable under Oregon law.
Updated: February 2026
By Gary Swiftbonds, nationally recognized expert in surety bonds, bid bonds, and performance bonds.
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| Oregon – Commercial General Contractor Level 1 ($80,000) Bond |  |
| Oregon – Commercial General Contractor Level 2 ($25,000) Bond | |
Introduction
Commercial general contractors are responsible for coordinating all phases of a construction project—from planning and permitting to hiring subcontractors and ensuring compliance with building codes and safety regulations. Depending on the license endorsement, they may also act hands-on construction work or focus primarily on project supervision and management.
To legally operate in Oregon, commercial general contractors must meet specific licensing requirements, which include completing pre-license training, passing a CCB exam, obtaining liability insurance, and securing a Commercial General Contractor Bond to protect clients and the public from potential damages or noncompliance.
Oregon Commercial General Contractor Bond
A Commercial General Contractor Bond in Oregon is a type of surety bond needed by the Oregon Construction Contractors Board (CCB) for individuals or businesses seeking to obtain or renew a license to operate as a Commercial General Contractor in the state. This bond is intended to protect the public and ensure compliance with Oregon construction laws and regulations.
Purpose of the Bond
The bond serves as a financial guarantee that the contractor will comply with ORS Chapter 701, which governs construction contracting in Oregon. Complete contractual obligations honestly and ethically. And pay damages resulting from construction-related misconduct or non-compliance.
Who needs this Bond?
- Any business or individual applying for a commercial general contractor license in Oregon.
- Required before engaging in construction activity on commercial properties in the state.
The Duration & Renewal of Bond
- The bond must be maintained continuously as long as the contractor is licensed.
- It must be renewed periodically, typically on an annual basis, along with the contractor’s license.
The Penalties for Noncompliance
Operating without the required bond can result in License denial, suspension, or revocation. Civil penalties or fines. And legal liability for unbonded work.
Obtain the Bond through Swiftbonds, follow these steps:
Determine the Required Bond Amount: The bond amount depends on your contractor license level. And ensure you know your specific licensing requirements before proceeding.
Visit Swiftbonds’ Website: Navigate to Swiftbonds’ Oregon Commercial Contractor License Bond page.
Complete the Online Application: Fill out the application form with accurate information about your business and personal details.
Undergo a Credit Check: Swiftbonds will perform a credit evaluation to determine your bond premium.
Receive a Quote: Based on your credit profile, Swiftbonds will provide a quote for the bond premium.
Pay the Premium: If you accept the quote, pay the premium to finalize the bonding process.
Obtain the Bond: After payment, Swiftbonds will issue your bond, which you can then submit to the Oregon Construction Contractors Board as part of your licensing requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are the different levels of Commercial General Contractor licenses?
There are two main endorsement levels:
- Level 1 (CGC1): May supervise large commercial projects and hire subcontractors.
- Level 2 (CGC2): Limited to smaller commercial projects and may have restrictions on project size or supervision scope.
2. What are the licensing requirements to become a Commercial General Contractor in Oregon?
Applicants must:
- Complete a 16-hour pre-license training course.
- Pass the Oregon CCB licensing exam.
- Provide proof of liability insurance and a surety bond.
- Submit a completed application and pay the required licensing fee.
3. How long is the contractor license valid?
The license is valid for two years and must be renewed before the expiration date to remain active.
4. Can a Commercial General Contractor also work on residential projects?
Only if the contractor holds a dual endorsement (Commercial and Residential). Separate endorsements are required for residential work.
5. What happens if a contractor operates without a license or bond?
Engaging in contracting without a valid license or bond is a violation of Oregon law, which may lead to:
- Fines or penalties.
- Legal action.
- License suspension or revocation.
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