Business Licenses and Permits: Federal, State and Local, per the SBA
Note: Some future links on this site may be affiliate links. We never claim hands-on testing; guides are researched from the public sources listed in each article.
How we wrote this: A plain-English summary of the U.S. Small Business Administration's business guide on licenses, permits and business location, checked October 29, 2026. Requirements vary by place and activity; check with each issuing agency.
Most businesses need some
The SBA says most small businesses need a combination of licenses and permits from federal and state agencies. Requirements and fees depend on what you do and where you do it.
Federal licenses
You need a federal license or permit only if a federal agency regulates your activity. The SBA's examples include:
| Activity | Agency |
|---|---|
| Moving animals, plants or biologics across state lines | USDA |
| Alcohol and tobacco | TTB |
| Firearms and explosives | ATF |
| Aircraft maintenance | FAA |
| Wildlife product import/export | U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service |
| Ocean cargo shipping | Federal Maritime Commission |
| Broadcasting by radio, TV, wire, satellite or cable | FCC |
| Nuclear materials | NRC |
| Oversize or overweight vehicles | State permits, with DOT pointing you to the office |
State, county and city
- Most licensing comes from the state, county or city. Rules vary by place and industry.
- Start with your Secretary of State's website and your local government sites.
- LLCs, corporations, partnerships and nonprofits may need county or city licenses too.
Zoning, even at home
Areas are zoned commercial or residential, and zoning can restrict or ban some businesses. Home-based businesses face fewer limits, but zoning can still apply. Check with your city planning office.
Keep track of renewals
Some licenses and permits expire. The SBA notes it's often easier to renew than to apply again.
Related: registering a DBA, getting an EIN, choosing a business structure, writing a business plan.