Transportation Guidelines
Do you intend to transport guests by motor vehicle or aircraft? What type of vehicle will you use? Where will you pick up passengers, and where will you take them? The intent of your transportation needs and the vehicle you use will determine what type of permit you will need.
OREGON DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
The Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) oversees most of the commercial vehicle registration in Oregon. ODOT has two websites for companies looking to transport people.
We recommend calling ODOT at (503) 378-6699 to find out whether you need a 1R Permit to transport passengers intrastate, need other permits or certifications, and are meeting insurance requirements. Call ODOT if you plan to operate a vehicle weighing more than 26,000 pounds.
Use the links below to help you research your needs and find what forms you need to fill out:
- ODOT Motor Carrier Transportation has general information about trucking and transportation services. Information is online here.
- Oregon Trucking Online Website “Other Forms” page with links to passenger transport 1R Permits and other requirements. Information is online here.
- The Oregon Intrastate Permit to Transport Persons application form is online here.
- There is no state permit needed for vehicles designed to carry seven or fewer passengers; however, your local jurisdiction might classify these as for-hire or limousine services.
- If you pick up or drop off passengers in Portland, your drivers and vehicles must be registered with the Portland Bureau of Transportation. Information is online here.
- If you pick up at Portland International Airport you will need to have your drivers and vehicles registered with the Portland Bureau of Transportation. Information is online here.
- Additional information about commercial transportation requirements in Portland is available here.
- Private for-hire regulations are here.
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
The United States Department of Transportation (USDOT) oversees all transportation within the United States. The USDOT has different regulations that are dependent on whether you travel solely within a state (intrastate) or on whether your travel between states (interstate).
- INTRASTATE: You will need to apply for a U.S. Department of Transportation Number unless you meet these exemptions (checklist is online here):
- Your vehicle does not exceed 26,000 pounds
- You operate only in Oregon (vehicle does not cross state lines)
- You operate a vehicle that is designed or used to transport more than 15 passengers, including the driver
- INTERSTATE: You will need to apply for a U.S. Department of Transportation Number unless you meet these exemptions (checklist is online here):
- Your vehicle does not exceed 10,000 pounds
- You operate a vehicle that is designed or used to transport more than 8 passengers, including the driver
- You can contact USDOT directly by dialing 1-800-832-5660
THE OREGON STATE MARINE BOARD AND THE US COAST GUARD
The Oregon State Marine Board and the US Coast Guard oversee all boat transportation in Oregon. If you transport people by boat, check with the Marine Board. Depending upon your vessel, the waters on which you operate, or the number of people you carry, the requirements will vary. You can contact the Oregon State Marine Board directly by dialing 503-378-2633 or by emailing outfitter.guide@oregon.gov.
FEDERAL AVIATION ADMINISTRATION
There are strict standards that all commercially operating pilots and tour operators must comply with including being certified a Commercial Pilot. Your best bet is to start by calling the Federal Aviation Administration’s Oregon Flights Standards District Office at 503-615-3200.
- Air Tour Operator – these operators run only fixed-based scenic flights within a limited distance, not point to point commercial flights. These operators need a Letter of Authorization to grant them permission to run this service. To get this letter, you will have to comply with license and aircraft operational and maintenance requirements.
- Air Carrier Operators – provides on-demand air services, including charter point-to-point services. These carriers will have the most stringent certification and maintenance requirements.
- Additional information is available on the Federal Aviation Administration website.