Licensing Requirements
The Department of Business & Professional Regulation’s MyFloridaLicense website can help you determine if your Florida business needs an occupational license or permit, and which agency to contact about applying for the license. You can also contact the Department of Business & Professional Regulation with questions.
When Do You Need a Business License?
Most cities (or counties) in Florida require businesses to be licensed to operate within the jurisdiction. This general business license is usually called a business tax receipt in Florida and is required even if the business is a one-person company and operates out of a private residence.
As the home of attractive tax laws and a wealth of world-class industries, Florida draws in many new and growing businesses. Florida businesses may need state-level licenses, certifications, and local business tax receipts specific to their industry and location.
State-Level Licenses
Florida does not require state-level operating licenses, but specific businesses need licenses from one of three state-level agencies:
- Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation
- Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services
- Florida Department of State
An important state-level document is the Annual Resale Certificate for Sales Tax, which you must obtain if you are engaged in business in Florida and intend to sell taxable goods or services.
Local-Level Licenses
Nearly every business that operates within Florida must obtain a tax registration on the state level and a business tax receipt on the local level. All county and local governments require a business to be licensed to operate in their jurisdictions.
Cost of Getting a Business License
The cost for a business tax receipt varies by locality, and some cities or counties charge a one-time fee between $50 and $100, while others require an annual fee of the same or more.
To obtain a local business tax receipt, you should visit your city or county’s website. You need to check with your County Tax Collector to see if you need a license and register your business with several government bodies, including the Department of Revenue and the IRS.
Starting a Business in Florida
To start your enterprise, important tasks include picking a niche, carrying out market research, choosing a business structure, registering a business name, obtaining an EIN, appointing a registered agent, getting required permits, setting up banking and accounting systems, obtaining insurance, hiring employees, and planning marketing strategies.
Home-Based and Online Businesses
If you provide goods or services to the public, whether from home or a commercial location, you generally need a business tax receipt. For online sales, Florida currently does not require a seller’s permit, except for businesses that also have a physical presence in the state.
Special Permits
To determine the special permits your business might require, it’s necessary to understand the specific regulations that apply to your company’s circumstances and activities.
Independent Contractors
Being an independent contractor is one way to be self-employed. If you earn money but don’t work as an employee for someone else, you are considered self-employed.
Remember, there is no state business license in Florida, but local city regulations and business type will govern the licenses and permits needed to legally operate.