How To Get A Retail Business License

By: Writing Kimberly

Break Studios Contributing Writer

Learning how to get a retail business license is not difficult. The terms "retail license" and "business license" are often used interchangeably. A retail business license grants a business the right to operate within the jurisdiction granting the license. Most businesses are required to get a local business license, issued by either the county or city in which the business operates. If the business operates in more than one county or city, then it is usually required to get a business license for every location in which business is done or retail goods are sold. Retail business licenses are typically easy to get.

Contact your town or county clerk. Ask her what the retail business license requirements are for your particular jurisdiction.
Fill out the required application. Every retail business license will require that you complete an application and file it with the jurisdiction in which you are applying.
Pay the fee associated with your application. These fees are typically small, under $100 in most instances.
Contact your Secretary of State. Find out whether you also need to get a retail business license from your state. Depending what industry your business is in, it may be operating in an area regulated by state law. Some examples of businesses that would be required to get a state license are beauty salons, building contractors and attorneys. These kinds of businesses are the ones that require a particular education, and often certification, for the individuals working in these areas. There are often separate agencies overseeing different kinds of businesses, and if you are unsure of what agency to contact, your Secretary of State can steer you in the right direction. The fees are higher for state-issued retail business licenses, and the application process may require that you show evidence that you have completed the educational process associated with the industry.
Contact your local Small Business Administration if you need an additional resource. The local SBA would be able to help you identify the agency, if any, regulating your industry, from whom you would need to get a retail business license.