What business license do i need in california

Starting a business in California will mean potentially registering with a number of federal, state, and local agencies. Before applying for any licenses, the business entity will need to be established. Learn more about the differences between the sole proprietorship, general partnership, corporation, and Limited Liability Company LLC. Related: Comparison of Business Entities.

Also see: Steps to Starting a Business in California. There is no general state of California business license , however, many cities require businesses to be licensed in order to operate. Rules for business registration vary depending on location and what the business does. Below are a few cities that have licensing requirements.

Business registration is required for any company operating within the corporate limits of the city. Additionally, certain businesses such as billiard halls, food service establishments, tattoo artists, ice cream trucks, and more have to register with the Office of the City Clerk.

Depending on city requirements, home-based businesses may need to apply for a home occupation permit. Building Permit — A building permit may be needed from the city or county building and planning department if there is any construction or renovations to a facility. Signage Permit — Some municipalities require a permit before adding signage. The CDTFA has a secure, convenient, fast, and free way to register online for a permit, license, or account.

The system guides you through the process and will assist you with the types of permits you may need for your business. Certain special tax and fee programs require a license that needs to be renewed each year. To renew your license, you must complete a Renewal Application for these programs:. California Seller's Permit : If you are doing business in California and intend to sell or lease tangible personal property subject to sales tax sold at retail, you are required to have a seller's permit and prominently display it at your place of business.

Cannabis Tax Permit : If you are a distributor of cannabis and cannabis products, you must obtain a cannabis tax permit. Cigarette and Tobacco Products : If you sell cigarettes and tobacco products at retail, you must have a California Cigarette and Tobacco Products Retailer's License before purchasing or selling cigarettes or tobacco products. You must obtain this license in addition to your seller's permit.

You must obtain this account in addition to your seller's permit. You must have an IFTA license if you are an interstate motor carrier reporting fuel taxes. An IFTA license allows a taxpayer to file one tax report that covers all member jurisdictions.

Lead Acid Battery Fees : You must register as a battery dealer and pay the California battery fee if you sell replacement lead-acid batteries at retail in California.

Dealers may also be liable for the manufacturer battery fee. You must separately register as a manufacturer and pay the manufacturer battery fee if you are a manufacturer of lead-acid-batteries and sell, offer for sale, or distribute the lead-acid batteries in California. If the manufacturer is not subject to the jurisdiction of this state, a dealer or other person who imports the lead-acid battery into California for sale or distribution is responsible to register and pay the manufacturer battery fee.

You will be required to file underground storage tank fee returns and pay any fee amounts due for the reporting period. Please see our complete list of Special Tax and Fee Programs.

Our verification webpage will help you verify a seller's permit, cigarette and tobacco product retailer's license, and eWaste account. This site is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial or tax advise. The information on this site should not be relied upon as an official source of information and should be independently verified.

Search by State To find more information about a business license in your state choose the state below. Disclaimer: This site is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial or tax advise. Do You Like This Content? All Rights Reserved. North Dakota. South Carolina. New Hampshire. West Virginia. North Carolina. It is still possible to obtain an EIN even if you are an Etsy shop owner only.

A permit is not necessary if you do not purchase or resell anything. Resale permits are like business licenses, you must take them out whenever your resale business operates. CDTFA locations may be able to assist you with online registration or you can apply at a nearby location. In general, however, you will need to submit an application to the appropriate authority.

The form can usually be found on the website of the local agency that regulates businesses, so you should visit that site. November 30,