Business License & Permit Requirements by State

Every business needs some kind of license or permit. The specific requirements depend on your state, city, and industry. Here's what to expect.

Your state:

General Business LicenseRequired

Most cities and counties require a general business license to operate. Requirements and fees vary by location.

General contractors, electricians, plumbers, and other trades need state or local licenses in most states.

Health permits, food handler certifications, fire inspections, and mobile vendor licenses.

If you operate under a name different from your legal name, most states require a DBA (Doing Business As) filing.

State licensing for hairstylists, barbers, nail techs, estheticians, and salon/shop establishments.

State licensing for home-based and center-based childcare, including background checks and safety inspections.

Zoning permits and home occupation permits for businesses run from a residential address.

Required in most states if you sell tangible goods. Allows you to buy wholesale without paying sales tax.

EPA Section 608 certification, state contractor licenses, journeyman & master HVAC licensing requirements.

Apprentice, journeyman, master electrician, and electrical contractor licensing by state.

Apprentice, journeyman, master plumber, and plumbing contractor licensing by state.

State licensing, Medicare certification, Medicaid enrollment, accreditation, and staffing requirements.

Employment agency permits, surety bonds, workers comp for temporary workers, and state registration.

Pesticide applicator certification, structural pest control licensing, and EPA category requirements.