- 1). Locate the licensing agency. The easiest way to do this is to contact your state's commerce department or Secretary of State's office; otherwise, you could begin by visiting your state's official website and look for licensing, regulation or professional licensing information.
You can also phone or visit businesses that offer the same goods and/or services
in your area and speak with an owner or manager and inquire what licenses they
hold. You can also phone a CPA or a business consultant and ask him what licensing is required for your business to operate. - 2). Get the necessary licensing application forms. Most municipalities will have these forms available in their government offices, and most states post licensing requirements and/or forms on the state's official website. You'll need to order the appropriate forms and ask for a fee schedule along with any special requirements
you might have to meet. For instance, in the state of Florida, to open a
home-based day-care business, you need to undergo a background check and
have your home inspected prior to even submitting a home day-care license
application.
Also be sure to inquire as to professional licensing. If you are opening a hair salon, you may not only need a business license, but a professional cosmetology license as well to legally operate in your state. - 3). Apply for your business license. Often, this is the most difficult part in obtaining a business license because of the bureaucracy of federal, state and local governments. They may also require permits or have other requirements (such as meeting ADA requirements, or requirements for oil disposal or hazardous material
handing). Licensing regularly involves a long waiting period for approval.
Moreover, many business licenses must be completed by hand and mailed or
delivered to the licensing agency.
You'll need to complete your business license application and have any
supporting documents included (if applicable), as well as a check or money order
to cover the application fee. In addition, the application itself may have a filing fee separate from the cost of the business license.
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