How To Apply For A Business License

Find out if you need additional licenses.

Determine your business jurisdiction prior to obtaining license. Depending on the nature of a business, a regulatory license (Liquor, Gaming, other) may be required prior to obtaining a local business license. The requirements — and fees — vary based on your business activities, location, and government rules. Most small businesses need a combination of licenses and permits from both federal and state.

What License And Permits For Small Business

Depending on the nature and type of business, you may be required to get additional licenses.
  • For example, if you intend to operate a car wash, then you must obtain a 'Car Washing & Polishing Registration Certificate' from the Division of Labor Standards.[6] Similarly, if you plan on selling or leasing products, then you must obtain a Seller’s Permit, which you can obtain online by accessing the California State Board of Equalization.
  • Other common licenses businesses need include: an Alcoholic Beverage License and a Sales and Use Permit (restaurant), a Barbering and Cosmetology License (Beauty Salon), Produce Dealers License (grocery store), and Vehicle Dealer License (Automobile Dealer).
  • To find if you need additional certificates or licenses, revisit the search results under “Permit & Licenses” on CalGold.
  • Not all permits and licenses listed will apply. For example, you may get a result for “Building Permit” even if you are starting a law firm. If you need help deciding which licenses to apply for, you should contact an attorney or visit one of the state’s “legal incubator programs.”

Overview:

Jefferson parish business license

Before you launch your new business, you'll need to apply for a business license with your city or county. The process of starting a business is often complicated, so the Georgia Secretary of State recommends that you consult an attorney or accountant as you create your business plan.

What You Should Know:

  • In some cities and counties, you'll first need to secure a state tax identification number, a trade name registration and zoning approval for your business location. Additionally, your business may also need to apply for corporate registrations, professional licenses, or other special operating permits prior to application.
  • To find out more about business licensing in your area, you can visit your local Chamber of Commerce or development authority.
  • Learn more about starting a business and registering its trade name, fictitious name, or Doing Business As (DBA) title with the First Stop Business Information Center on the Georgia Secretary of State website.

FAQs:

How To Apply For A Business License In Arizona

Yes. You must file an Annual Registration each year. The Annual Registration period for entities registered with the Secretary of State is from Jan. 1 - April 1 each year.

Do I have to pay a registration fee for each additional location of my business?

It depends. Most likely, yes, you may have to register each location and pay the fees for both. However, the Corporations Division strongly recommends you obtain professional legal, tax, and business advice in order to make sure all requirements of the law are met (both before and after you open a second location).

How To Apply For A Business License In Mississippi

Sources: Secretary of State & Georgia Chamber of Commerce. This information was prepared as a public service of the State of Georgia to provide general information, not to advise on any specific legal problem. It is not, and cannot be construed to be, legal advice. If you have questions regarding any matter contained on this page, please speak with the agency that is the source of the information.