What licenses and permits do I need to operate a U.S. business?

Every business that plans to operate in the U.S. will need some type of business permit or license. These requirements vary across federal, state, and city governments, and are impacted by everything from a business’ headquarters to the industry it operates in.

In this article, we’ll explore how to find out what licenses and permits you’ll need to launch and maintain your business, provide a list of common licenses to check for, and help simplify the process of adhering to these requirements.

Business licenses and business permits are both boxes that need to be checked to make sure that your business is operating legally. Without licenses or permits, your business is at risk of being shut down.

Licenses and permits are often confused but there are some important differences between the two. A business license or professional license is granted by a governing body, such as a state organization or a local municipality. You'll need to meet certain criteria to get one, such as conducting business in a specific area. These licenses grant your business the right to carry out specific activities. For example, a business license allows you to run a business; a liquor license lets you sell alcohol.

A business permit, on the other hand, is proof that your business is following certain laws. For example, a zoning permit can indicate that the use and structure of your physical business is following the local rules of your area.

There are multiple levels of government you will need to check with to ensure that you’re complying with license and permit requirements. This can be confusing.

For example, federal business permits and licenses apply to everyone in the U.S., while state and local governments often have different requirements on business licenses and permits.

Ensure you’re complying with the right permits and licenses by checking directly with each level of government. You can also simplify this process by seeking assistance from a local business development center or attorney. Here's who to check with at the different levels of government:

Federal authorities

The federal government regulates some types of businesses, but not all. This is the easiest level of government to check with because the permit and license requirements are the same across the U.S., regardless of where you live.

State authorities

State governments usually issue the general business licenses that your business will need to operate. In addition, there may be other types of business licenses and permits you will need to procure. These licenses will vary by state.

Generally, states regulate more types of businesses than the federal government. Some states have more regulations than others. Depending on your business, these regulations can impact where you decide to set up.

According to a 2019 Small Business and Entrepreneurship Council report, Texas, Nevada, and Florida had the best climate for new entrepreneurs in terms of government-imposed or government-related costs. Keep in mind that these are not the only factors that make a state business-friendly.

You will need to check with your state authorities to find out which business permits and licenses apply to your business. The name of the agency you will need to check with varies by state. For example, in Washington, you will need to check with the Department of Revenue; in Colorado, it's known as the Secretary of State.

Local authorities

Each local city or municipality has business regulations. For example, in the city of Kirkland, Washington, your business will require a city business license and a state business license to operate.

Depending on the industry and activities your business engages in, it may also need different types of local licenses and permits than those required by the state or federal government. For example, if you operate your business from home, you may need to get a home occupation permit or zoning permit from your local authorities. The exact name of the local department you'll need to seek out can vary by area. You can find the right department by contacting the local city hall where your business is registered.

The federal government doesn't regulate as many businesses as state and local authorities. However, if your business type falls under its regulations, you will need a federal license or permit to operate. According to the Small Business Administration, businesses in the following trades need a federal license:

Create a list of the different business licenses and permits your business will. This list will help you keep track of the requirements of federal, state, and local authorities. Below, we’ve listed some common licenses and permits needed to start a business. Not all will apply to your business, but checking which ones you will need will help you remain compliant.

If you’re wondering, “What type of business license do I need?” the answer depends on your industry, location, and how you operate. 

Here are a few common business scenarios and the business licenses you're most likely to need for each.

General business license

Most states require you to apply for a general business license in the state where your business is located, with a few exceptions. For example, the state of Oregon doesn't have a general business license.

A general business license typically costs between $50 and $400, depending on your state and city. Many jurisdictions process applications within one to two weeks, though larger cities can take up to 30 business days. Most general business licenses renew annually. 

Doing Business As (DBA) permit

If your business is structured as a partnership, LLC, or corporation, you had to choose a name when you filed with the state. If you're operating a sole proprietorship, your business name is generally the same as your personal name.

You're free to use other names. Using other names can be helpful to separate different parts of your business if you sell multiple types of products, for example.

However, if you're using other names, you'll have to file for a doing business as or DBA permit with your state. Sometimes, this permit is also known as a certificate of assumed name or DBA certificate.

Sales tax permit

If you sell goods and certain services, you’ll most likely need to collect sales tax. It’s required by forty-five states and the District of Columbia.

But not just any business can collect sales tax—you'll need a permit for it first. You can find out what sales tax business permits are required by checking with your state authorities.

Sometimes, businesses are also required to collect local sales tax. Make sure to check with your local government as well to verify if this is needed for your business. Local sales taxes are required in 38 states.

In most states, registering for a sales tax permit is free. A few states charge a small fee (typically between $5 and $100). Many states require periodic re-registration or renewal every few years. Check with your state's Department of Revenue for specific requirements.

Zoning permit

Local governments use zoning laws to regulate what types of businesses and homes can go where. Zoning laws may also dictate how buildings can look and how much parking is required for your building. To stay on the right side of the law, you’ll need to comply with these rules.

It may be possible to apply for a "conditional use permit" (CUP) or "administrative conditional use" zoning permit if you want to open a business in a place where it's normally not allowed. You can apply for this special zoning permit with your local authorities.

Zoning permit fees vary widely by jurisdiction, typically ranging from $50 to $300. Conditional use permits often cost more (sometimes several hundred dollars), have to be submitted to the local zoning board, and may involve a public hearing. Processing times depend on the complexity of your request, from a few days for straightforward approvals to several weeks for conditional use applications.

Home occupation permit

If you're starting a home business, your local government may require you to get a home occupation permit. These permits are commonly required for home businesses that have customers visiting a residence, but some governments also require home occupation permits for ecommerce businesses that operate solely on the internet.

Professional and occupational licenses

It's common for many states to regulate certain trades. If you're a doctor or a lawyer, you'll need to be licensed in the state you're working in; you'll need a commercial driving license if you're working in the transportation industry.

If you're able to choose where you'll be operating your business, it might be worthwhile to look at what professional licenses you'll need before moving there.

These licenses can be difficult to predict and vary across trades. For example, you'll need an occupational license to sell automobiles in California.

Health permit

If you're operating a business that could substantially impact an individual’s health, you might need to get a health permit. Check with your local and state government to see if your business requires health business permits.

Health permits are common if you sell food, such as mail-order macarons or tamales. But it can also be required for other businesses, such as hotels or tattoo studios.

Health permit costs range from roughly $150 to $400 or more, depending on the type of business and your jurisdiction. A food truck, for example, may pay a different rate than a full-service restaurant. Most health permits require an inspection before approval, and have annual renewals.

Fire department permit

If you're opening an in-person storefront or business location, you may also need a fire department permit. This permit depends on the goods you’re selling. For example, if you're selling or storing flammable objects like gasoline or paint thinner, you’ll need to follow safety regulations and procure a permit. Check with your local fire department to be sure.

Fire department permits generally cost between $100 and $500, depending on your location and the size of the space. Many jurisdictions require a fire inspection before issuing the permit and have annual renewals.

Environmental permits

If your business impacts the environment, you may need an environmental permit. For example, auto repair shops and agricultural outlets often work with a large number of pollutants that could impact the environment. Your local or state environmental quality department can point you to the business permits you will need.

There is a wide range of environmental permits, and they depend on what your business’ specific impact is. For example, if you'll be building a new storefront next to a swamp, you may need a wetlands building permit.

Sign permit

Many cities regulate the types of signs that businesses are allowed to put up. A small farming town might not want to look like the Las Vegas strip, after all.

If you're operating an in-person storefront or business, make sure to check with your local city to see if you'll need any sign permits.

Knowing which small business licenses and permits apply to you isn't a straightforward answer, and there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. We recommend setting aside time for research before you make any major decisions. Check with your state and local authorities and draft a new business licenses list that you can keep track of.

If you're having trouble figuring out what licenses you need, you can always hire a local small business lawyer. Investing time and money to understand the types of permits and licenses you will need can ensure that your business has a solid, compliant foundation.

Does every LLC need a separate business license?

Forming an LLC creates a legal business entity, but in many jurisdictions, you'll still need a general business license (and potentially industry-specific licenses) to operate. The requirements depend on your state and city, so check with your local government to confirm what applies to your business.

Do online-only businesses need permits?

In many cases, yes. Even if you don't have a physical storefront, your city or county may still require a general business license. If you're selling taxable goods or services, you'll likely need a sales tax permit as well. Some jurisdictions also require a home occupation permit if you run your business from your home, even if all sales happen online.

How do I check if my city requires a business license?

Start with your city or county clerk's office, which can tell you what's required for your type of business. Many local governments also have online portals where you can search by business type or industry. The SBA's business license and permits tool is another helpful starting point for identifying federal, state, and local requirements.

What happens if I operate without the required permits?

Consequences vary by jurisdiction and severity, but can include fines, forced closure of your business, lawsuits, and even criminal charges (in extreme cases). Many jurisdictions calculate penalties as a percentage of revenue during the period of noncompliance, which can be a lot for a small business.