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Texas Business License

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Applying for a Texas Business License

How to Apply for a Texas Business License

While Texas does not have a general business license requirement, specific licenses and permits may be needed depending on your industry and location. Follow these steps:

  1. Determine License Needs: Identify the local, state, or federal licenses required for your business.
  2. Apply for a Texas Sales Tax Permit: Most businesses must register for a sales tax permit.
  3. Check Local Requirements: Contact your city or county office for additional permits (e.g., health, building, or zoning).
  4. Register with Texas TDLR: If your industry is regulated by the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR), apply online for licensing and renewal services.

List of Texas Business Licenses

  1. Texas Sales Tax Permit
  2. Local Licenses and Permits (e.g., health permits, home occupation permits)
  3. Professional Licenses (e.g., cosmetology, contracting, medical)
  4. Specialty Permits (e.g., alcohol, firearms, or environmental permits)

Registering Your Business in Texas

Register your business by filing formation documents with the Texas Secretary of State and obtaining necessary licenses and permits. Sole proprietorships and partnerships may need to file a DBA (Assumed Name Certificate) at the county level.

Texas Sales Tax Permit

The Texas Sales Tax Permit is essential for businesses selling goods or taxable services.

Who Needs It?

You need this permit if you:

  • Operate in Texas
  • Sell or lease tangible personal property
  • Provide taxable services

How to Apply

Apply online through the Texas Comptroller’s eSystems. You’ll need:

If you cannot apply online, submit the application by email or fax using the provided PDF form.

Local Business Licenses in Texas

Local governments may have specific licensing requirements:

  • Food Businesses: Health department permits
  • Home-Based Businesses: Home occupation permits

Check with your city or county office or review guides for major Texas cities.

Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR)

The TDLR oversees professional licensing and regulation. Use the TDLR License Data Search to look up existing licenses by:

  • Type
  • Number
  • Name or location

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Texas require a business license?
Texas doesn’t have a statewide general license, but most businesses need at least one permit, such as a sales tax permit.

How much does a business license cost in Texas?
Fees vary depending on the type of license and range from $15 to over $1,000.

How do I get a Texas tax ID?
Register for a Texas Sales Tax Permit through the Comptroller’s eSystems. This is separate from a federal EIN, which you can obtain for free on the IRS website.

DBA and Assumed Name Filing

Filing a DBA

To operate under an assumed name, file an Assumed Name Certificate with your county clerk. Include:

  • Name, business type, and address information
  • Duration of the name (up to 10 years)
  • Signatures and notarization

Fees

  • Filing: $24 base fee + $0.50 per additional owner
  • Military veterans are exempt from additional owner fees.

Operating Successfully Under a DBA

  1. Renew Every 10 Years: File a new certificate before the current one expires.
  2. Open a Business Bank Account: Keep DBA income separate from other funds.
  3. Establish an Online Presence: Create a website and social media for your DBA to build credibility.