FAQ: Obtaining a License

Question: How long does the application process take?
Answer: Once your application is received by OSBEELS, fees are processed and the Registration Department reviews the application to determine eligibility. Upon approval, your application is then sent for final approval by the Board at the next Board meeting. Upon approval by the Board, your licensure will begin and a pocket card will be sent to you. The process can take from 2 to 4 months depending upon when the application is received by the Board office. See our list of application deadlines for a better idea of when completed applications will be reviewed by the Board.

Question: Can I pay my application fee online or over the phone?
Answer: Payments can be made on your MyOSBEELS account.
Register now at https://online.myosbeels.org.

Question: I'm registered in another state. Does Oregon have a Comity or Reciprocity application?
Answer: No. However, if you meet Oregon’s requirements for registration, irrespective of whether you are registered in another state or how you may have gained registration in another state, you may be granted registration in Oregon without re-testing. Only applications submitted on our current forms will be accepted.

Question: Can I get a temporary permit while my application is processed?
Answer: Upon initial review, applicants who meet the minimum qualifications may be issued a temporary permit to practice until the Board reviews their application. See OSBEELS fees here. See ORS 672.109 for details.

Question: Why do I need to submit my Social Security Number?
Answer: The record of your Social Security number will be used for child support, administration and identification purposes only, unless you authorize other uses of the number. Failing to provide your Social Security number on your license renewal application will result in a delay of your renewal and you will be informed to submit your Social Security number. If during the renewal process your professional license become expired, you will be categorized as “delinquent” and will be assessed an additional $80 fee. If you have not been issued a Social Security number, OSBEELS will accept a written certification to fulfil this requirement.

Question: Can an intern (EI/LSI) sign and seal documents?
Answer: No. Interns may only practice under the direct supervision of a licensee and may not hold themselves out as a Professional Engineer or Professional Land Surveyor.

Question: Is EIT/LSI enrollment required to gain technician experience in Oregon?
Answer: No. Be sure to gain professional experience under the supervision and control of a registered professional in your specialty. You'll need at least 3 references from registered professionals for your application.

Question: What branches of exams are recognized by the Board for PE registration?
Answer: see The SBEELS Disciplines and Branches Page. See OAR 820-010-1010 for details

Question: How do I send verification of my Oregon registration/exams to NCEES or another state?
Answer: Visit the Verification Requests Page for details

Question: How do I apply for professional registration using my NCEES Record
Answer: The NCEES Records Program is for currently licensed engineers and surveyors who are looking for an easier and faster way to complete the licensure process in multiple states. An established NCEES Record will include many of the materials you will need to apply for licensure in Oregon including college transcripts, exam results, experience record and professional references.

Applicants who transmit their records to OSBEELS through the NCEES Records Program (NCEES may charge a transmission fee), should check the “Have you established an NCEES Record?” box at the bottom of Section A. Your NCEES Record will detail your Education Summary, Exam Summary, References, and Experience Summary sections of the application. You can skip those sections. The remainder of the application must be completed in its entirety.

See the following OARs for detailed information: OAR 820-010-1000, OAR 820-010-2000, OAR 820-010-3000, and OAR 820-010-4000.

Question: Does my firm have to be licensed in Oregon?
Answer: Oregon does not require licensure for firms, only for individuals seeking professional registration.

Question: How is my work experience calculated?
Answer: Your work experience is calculated based on dates provided on the G-1: Experience Details form and verified by the reference forms (F-1) submitted with your application package. If you are unable to provide the required references, then you may request a waiver. Please see the Reference Waiver Matrix.