Oregon pest control license lookup: how to check and get a license
Oregon pest control license lookup: who issues exterminator licenses (ODA), how to check one online, the license types, and 144 exterminating and pest control services by county.
Do exterminators need a license in Oregon?
| Who licenses them | Oregon Department of Agriculture (ODA), Pesticides Program |
|---|---|
| License types | Commercial Pesticide Operator License, Commercial Pesticide Applicator License, Pesticide Apprentice, Immediately Supervised Trainee |
| When a license is required | License required for any for-hire pesticide application |
Pest control companies need an ODA Commercial Pesticide Operator license, which requires proof of insurance. Applications must be made or supervised by a licensed Commercial Pesticide Applicator working in the categories on that license. Ask the company which categories its license covers.
How do you look up an exterminator's license in Oregon?
- Ask the exterminator for the license number and the exact business name on the license.
- Open the Oregon pest control license lookup run by ODA.
- Search by license number first. A name search can return several people or companies with similar names.
- Check that the status is active or current, that the license type covers your job, and that the name matches the company on your contract.
- If something doesn't match, ask the exterminator about it before you sign or pay a deposit, or contact ODA.
What pest control licenses does Oregon issue?
- Commercial Pesticide Operator License
- Commercial Pesticide Applicator License
- Pesticide Apprentice
- Immediately Supervised Trainee
How do you get a pest control license in Oregon?
Licenses are issued by the Oregon Department of Agriculture (ODA), Pesticides Program. Requirements such as experience, exams, insurance and fees change, so read the current rules on the official ODA source before you apply. Already licensed? List your business on Expert Helper to get matched with customers.
How many exterminators are there in Oregon?
The Census Bureau counted 144 exterminating and pest control services with employees in Oregon in 2023. The counties with the most:
| Washington County | 29 |
|---|---|
| Multnomah County | 24 |
| Lane County | 16 |
| Marion County | 14 |
| Clackamas County | 12 |
| Jackson County | 11 |
| Douglas County | 9 |
| Josephine County | 7 |
What do Oregon homes mean for pest control work?
The median home in Oregon was built in 1980, 37% of households rent and 68% of homes are single-family houses. 37% of homes heat with utility gas and 53% with electricity, and 1% with fuel oil.
How do you choose an exterminator in Oregon?
- Ask for the business registration and the applicator's state certification number, and check them with the state agency.
- Ask what product they'll use and where, and what you need to do before and after (pets, kids, food, laundry for bed bugs).
- Prefer companies that inspect and seal entry points (integrated pest management) over ones that only spray.
- For bed bugs, ask how many visits are included and whether a follow-up inspection is part of the price.
- Get the guarantee in writing: what happens if the pests come back within 30 or 90 days.
Exterminators & Pest Control in other states
Sources: Oregon licensing agency (linked above); US Census Bureau County Business Patterns 2023 and ACS 2023 5-year estimates.