All Business Permits & Licenses

Every permit and filing this site covers, with a state-by-state guide behind each one.

• LLC Formation — anyone starting a business as a legal entity
• Business License — any business operating in a city or county that requires local licensing
• Food Truck Permit — mobile food vendors, food trucks, and mobile food carts
• Short-Term Rental Permit — Airbnb, VRBO, and other short-term rental hosts
• Cottage Food License — home bakers and home food producers of non-hazardous foods (bread, jam, cookies, granola)
• Sales Tax Registration — any business selling taxable goods or services in the state
• Employer Registration — any business with W-2 employees
• Contractor License — general contractors and specialty trades (electrical, plumbing, HVAC, roofing)
• Home Occupation Permit — anyone running a business from their residence
• DBA Filing — sole proprietors, partnerships, and LLCs operating under a name different from the legal registered name
• Sign Permit — commercial businesses installing exterior signage
• Sidewalk Cafe Permit — restaurants and cafes wanting to serve on the public sidewalk
• Building Permit — property owners and contractors doing structural, electrical, plumbing, or mechanical work
• Health Department Permit — restaurants, food retailers, and any business serving prepared food to the public
• Alcohol License — restaurants, bars, and retail stores selling beer, wine, or spirits
• Cosmetology License — hair stylists, estheticians, nail technicians, and barbers
• Massage Therapy License — licensed massage therapists (LMT)
• Childcare License — in-home daycare providers and childcare centers
• Professional License — regulated professionals (real estate agents, insurance producers, financial advisors, private investigators, notaries)
• Reseller Permit — wholesalers and retailers buying inventory tax-free for resale