Nearly every business requires at least one license to operate.
For example, if you want to operate your business from home, you may need a home occupation permit. A restaurant typically needs a health permit in addition to an alcohol and food service license—and may even want a music license to host shows. If you open a shop, you may need a seller's permit and a sales tax license.
Licenses and permits protect your business from penalties and risk of closure, as well as help customers feel reassured it's safe to do business with you.
Why get help with your business licenses?
Concentrate on running and growing your business instead of researching complex licensing requirements—let our license specialists handle that.
Not having the right licenses and permits in place can result in penalties and fines, costing your business money and risking potential closure.
Enjoy peace of mind
Notifications about changes to your license report requirements and reminders about upcoming renewal deadlines to help you stay compliant.
You need to register for a federal license if a federal agency requires one for your specific business activity.
For example, federal agencies issue industry-specific federal licenses to companies in certain sectors, like alcohol manufacturers, retailers and commercial fishing.
What is a state business license?
You may need to apply for a state business license if your state agency is responsible for regulating any of your business activities.
This varies between different industries and sectors, but state requirements to conduct business can generally include seller’s permits and liquor licenses. You may be subject to certain environmental regulations that require you to submit a business license application.
What is a local business license?
You may need to apply for a local business license if some or all of your business activities are regulated at city, county, and local government levels.
Local authority rules vary, but business activities that are regulated at the local level typically can include zoning permits, building permits, fire alarms, and sales tax permits.
How do I get a business license?After you determine which licenses, permits, and registrations are required for your business, you'll need to begin the process on the authority's website. You may also need to provide business documents like your official business name, tax ID, financial information, business insurance details, and more.
With our service, you get a personalized report of which licenses, permits, and registrations your business needs. You'll also get direct access to the relevant applications and helpful instructions to help you save time and money.
How long does it take to get a business license?The amount of time it takes to get a license can vary, depending on whether it is a local, state or federal license and also on what industry the license is for.
To help speed up the process, you can get a customized report on which business licenses you may need. This can help you save time researching complex licensing requirements and get straight to applying.