Oregon Business Broker & M&A Advisor License Requirements
Becoming a licensed business broker or M&A advisor in Oregon requires meeting specific education, exam, and experience standards. This guide covers every requirement, fee, and regulatory pathway for Oregon as of 2025–2026.
License Type Required in Oregon Real estate broker license required. Oregon business brokers operate under the Real Estate Broker License, regulated by the Oregon Real Estate Agency (OREA).
Education Requirements
Pre-license (salesperson): 150 hours of approved coursework
Broker upgrade: 40 hrs principal broker course (after 3 years as broker)
Experience Required 3 years as licensed salesperson/broker.
Exam & Licensing Fees
Exam: PSI national + Oregon state exam
Application fee: $300
License fee: $230
Exam note: One of the highest pre-license requirements in the US at 150 hrs
Continuing Education 30 hours per 2 years required to maintain active Oregon broker license. Include mandatory ethics and law topics.
M&A Advisor Requirements in Oregon Oregon (Portland) has growing M&A activity in tech, outdoor/apparel, and food/beverage sectors. The Oregon real estate Principal Broker license is required. Oregon Division of Financial Regulation oversees securities laws. M&A advisors on larger deals affiliate with FINRA-registered broker-dealers.
Industry Certifications (Optional but Career-Critical)
CBI (Certified Business Intermediary) — International Business Brokers Association (IBBA)
M&AMI (M&A Master Intermediary) — IBBA, for deals $5M+
CMAP (Certified M&A Professional) — AM&AA
Series 79 (Investment Banking Representative) — FINRA, for larger M&A advisory
Series 82 (Private Securities Offerings Representative) — FINRA
How to Get Started as a Business Broker in Oregon 1. Complete 150 hrs pre-license coursework 2. Pass the PSI national + Oregon state exam 3. Obtain your Oregon salesperson/associate license 4. Work under a licensed broker for 3 years as licensed salesperson/broker 5. Complete 40 hrs principal broker course (after 3 years as broker) and pass the broker exam 6. Pursue CBI certification via IBBA to establish market credibility