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Architectural Firm Registration

Requirements

Businesses providing architectural services in Oregon must register as a firm with OSBAE.

The practice of architecture by firms in Oregon must be managed and directed by an Architect or Architects registered under ORS 671.010 to 671.220.

The architectural firm representative must be an officer or voting member of the architectural firm or have ownership interest in the architectural firm.

NOTE: Any business providing architectural services in Oregon must obtain registration with OSBAE. If you are a sole proprietor who has incorporated your business or are practicing under your name as an LLC, you are required to register your firm with OSBAE.

It is the responsibility of the firm owner to meet requirements for operating a business in the state of Oregon by registering with the Oregon Secretary of State. We recommend you contact your attorney or CPA for guidance on business registration with the state.
Verify that the corporate or assumed business name meets the following requirements: 
  • The firm only uses the plural form of architect in its name if it has more than one individual architect actively registered in any Board recognized jurisdiction 
  • If the name includes a surname it must be a person that is or was an owner or employee, or otherwise in a contractual relationship with the firm under which the individual is or was engaged in the practice of architecture in Oregon 
  • Wording used to suggest the existence of additional principals, directors, partners or associates, such as "Associated," "Group," "& Associates," or "Partners," refers to persons currently or previously within the firm 
  • The firm name only contains numbers that are not misleading to the public, i.e., “Three Oregon Architects” must have three architects registered in Oregon 

Process

  1. Register the firm name/assumed business name with the Oregon Secretary of State. Request a Certificate of Existence for the firm name being used in Oregon. The Secretary of State’s website for business registry is https://sos.oregon.gov/business/Pages/default.aspx; to request a Certificate of Existence go to Oregon Business Registry (state.or.us)
  2. Submit a complete Architectural Firm Application, Certificate of Existence, and any other attachments to architectboard@osbae.oregon.gov or the street address listed below. Keep a copy of the application for your records. Applications are valid for 12 months from the date received by the Board. 
  3. Pay the Application fee AND Certificate of Registration fee via check or ONLINE.

Application form

Architectural Firm Application

Fees