📝 How-To Guide

How to Get a Business License

For most businesses, getting a license takes about 15 minutes online and costs under $100. Here's exactly what to do.

📝 5 steps. Here they are.
💰
$25–$100
Typical cost
⏱️
1–10 days
Typical wait
🔄
Annual
Renewal frequency
✅ Good news first
Most basic business licenses are fast, cheap, and easy to get. The application is usually one page. No lawyer needed.
The key is knowing WHICH office to apply to — that's what this guide explains.

What you'll need before you apply

📄 Business name
Whatever name you're doing business under. If it's not your own legal name, you may need to file a DBA (Doing Business As) first.
📍 Business address
Where you operate from. If you work from home, this is your home address.
🔢 EIN or SSN
Your city needs one for tax purposes. An EIN (Employer Identification Number) is free from IRS.gov and takes 5 minutes online.
💰 Estimated annual revenue
Some cities calculate fees based on revenue. Estimate honestly — low for a new business.

Step-by-step: how to get your license

1

Find the right office

Search: "[your city name] business license application" — look for the .gov website. In most cities, the licensing office is under Finance, Revenue, or City Clerk.

2

Check state requirements first

A few states (Nevada, Washington, Tennessee) require a statewide business license before you apply locally. Check your state's guide on this site.

3

Complete the application

Most cities have online applications. They ask for your name and contact info, business name and address, type of activity, EIN or SSN, and estimated revenue.

4

Pay the fee

Most basic business licenses cost $25–$100/year. Pay by credit card online or by check if applying by mail.

5

Wait for approval and display your license

Online applications are sometimes approved instantly. Others take 3–10 business days. Food businesses and contractors need inspections first, which takes longer. Post your license visibly if you have a physical location.

💡

Home occupation permit too?

If operating from home, many cities require an additional Home Occupation Permit from the zoning department. This is separate from the business license. Check your city's zoning rules.

Special situations

Food businesses

You'll also need a Health Permit from your local or county health department. This requires a kitchen inspection. Apply at the same time as your business license — inspections can take weeks.

Contractors

Electricians, plumbers, and contractors typically need a state contractor license in addition to a local business license. These require proof of insurance and may require passing an exam.

Selling products

If you sell physical products, you'll also need a Seller's Permit from your state's department of revenue. It's free in most states. Completely separate from your business license.

Quick answers

No. Most people handle this completely on their own. The application is usually one page.
This depends on your city. Some say yes after submitting a complete application. Others require waiting for official approval. Check with your specific city.
Update your business license with the new address. Contact your licensing office — some require a new license, others allow an amendment.
Usually no, or only a partial refund. Notify your licensing office when you close so you don't keep receiving renewal notices.

Related guides

🤔
Do I Need a Business License?
Figure out if this applies to you first
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💰
How Much Does a Business License Cost?
Real fee ranges
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How to Renew a Business License
What to do when it expires
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⚠️ Not legal advice. Rules vary by location and change frequently. Always verify with your city, county, or state office before taking any action.

⚠️ Heads up: This site explains business licensing in plain English. Not legal advice. Rules change. Always verify with your actual city or state office. Affiliate disclosure.