Overview of Occupational Licensing in Louisiana
Each person pursuing any trade, profession, vocation, calling, or business within Jefferson Parish is required to file and pay the occupational license tax. The tax has a minimum of $50 per business location. In Louisiana, nearly one in five workers must now get an occupational license before they can legally do their job.
Impact of Occupational Licensing
Licenses Create Barriers to Working in Louisiana. The average license for low- and moderate-income jobs in Louisiana takes 175 days of education and experience. Louisiana is reported to have the sixth worst licensing laws in the entire country.
Specific Occupational Licensing Examples in Louisiana
- Highest burden: A Preschool Teacher, Public School license in Louisiana requires $486 in fees, 3 exams, 3 years experience, and 4 years of education.
- Lowest burden: An Animal Breeder license in Louisiana requires $23 in fees, no exams, no experience, and no education.
- Most expensive: An occupational license in Louisiana costs the most for Midwife, Direct Entry.
Obtaining Professional Licensing in Louisiana
To start a business in Louisiana, you need a Louisiana business license from the Secretary of State, which varies between $25 and $50. This is different from forming an LLC or any other legal business entity.
Landscaping and Tree Work Licensing in Louisiana
Landscapers must hold a state license to work in Louisiana, including licenses awarded by the Horticulture Commission for various activities. Licensed arborists are required for tree work in Louisiana, ensuring proper execution and liability insurance.
Licensing Reform and Professionalism
The Institute for Justice report emphasizes the need for licensing reform, especially considering its impacts on lower-income occupations. There is recognition of the need for reform by legislators, with proposals to review existing regulations.
Applying for Occupational Licenses in St. Tammany Parish
You need an occupational license in St. Tammany Parish for businesses in unincorporated areas, with specific requirements for new applications. Additionally, other registrations like sales tax ID, business tax registration ID, and DBA certificate are necessary for starting a business.