You might have a lucrative business idea in mind and there will always be a desire to execute the plan. However, before anything you will be faced with a challenge of a different kind. How to get a business license in Florida? This could be your foremost concern as you plan to start a business venture in this state. Let us discuss the detailed process to procure a business license in this state.
There are specific types of businesses that need active licenses and permits to operate in the state of Florida. The process could look overwhelming, but it is not so. Here is a guide on the steps to follow as you seek answers to the question of how to get a business license in Florida.
Which business needs a license to operate in Florida?
This is the first segment to watch out for as you seek answers to your question about how to get a business license in Florida. The licensing regulations are easier because not every business will need a state license. However, the law requires both license and certification for businesses that expose customers to potential hazards. Alongside, if you are involved in any operation, where extensive training is necessary, then you will need a license. Here are some specific businesses for which you will need a state license to operate.
- Architects & interior designers and engineers
- Building contractors
- Real estate broking
- Charted accountancy
There are primarily three state-level agencies, which issue these permits. Do you need to obtain a license for construction, alcohol & real estate, and tobacco business? There will be a need to apply and coordinate with The Florida Department of Business & Professional Regulation (DBPR).
If you are eager to do business in the agricultural sector, gambling, oil & gas, and any form of food-handling-related sector, there will be a need to apply for a license with The Florida Department of Agriculture & Commerce (DACS). This department also issues licenses to people who are eager to start a private security & investigation business.
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People venturing into the healthcare industry would also want to seek answers to the question of how to get a business license in Florida and here is the guide. You will have to seek a license from The Florida Department of Health (FDOH). Are you a massage therapist? You will also have to seek a license from this department before starting operations.
This is the first part of the answer to your question about how to get a business license in Florida. The websites of these departments offer a comprehensive guide and you can check the details.
Do I need a business license at the city or county level?
This should be the next area of focus as you seek answers to the question of how to get a business license in Florida. Beyond these above-mentioned licenses, most cities & counties require businesses operating within their jurisdiction to be licensed. This license is also referred to as a business tax receipt in Florida. If you are planning a business that offers merchandise services, then it is vital to procure this permission.
It is to be noted that businesses regulated by the state will also need this permission and irrespective of the scale & size of the operations. If you are running a sole proprietorship business from your residence, there will still be a need to obtain this tax receipt.
This is the second part of the answer to your question about how to get a business license in Florida. You are free to browse the website for more information in this regard.
Some additional licenses & permits you may need
This is also an important segment for an aspiring entrepreneur seeking answers to the question of how to get a business license in Florida. Your business venture may also require an FBN or DBA permit. These permits will be mandatory to seek if the name you are doing business with does not match the registered name. If you are into any form of business that is selling or leasing tangible property, then you will require a seller’s permit separately.
What are the steps to procure the license?
Until now, you have been briefed on the specific business licenses that you need in the state of Florida. Let us discuss the most important part of the answer to your of how to get a business license in Florida. There are multiple steps involved in the process and here are the details.
- The first step will be to form a company and do everything necessary in this regard. The business will have to be given a name and you will need to convey the authorities on the nature of proprietorship. It could be anything from sole proprietorship & partnership, and corporation. The business needs an address & phone number.
- You will then have to apply for a Florida tax certificate. There will be a need to fill up the form and that is the start of the process. Keep in mind that a business operating in Miami needs both a city business license & country business license.
- Does your business require any other local license? This is also an important segment to watch out for in the answer to your question about how to get a business license in Florida.
- There could be a need to apply for any additional statewide license that you will need.
This is a complete guide to your question about how to get a business license in Florida. You will have to incur some costs to obtain a license and it will depend upon the nature of the business. The Florida Annual Resale Certificate for Sales Tax is a document that must be reviewed annually. If you are finding the process complicated, there is always the scope to seek professional help in this regard.
FAQ
1. Is there a need to procure a license for an LLC business?
You will need a license for LLC because it is not a legal entity.
2. Is EIN the same as a business license?
The term EIN is an employer identification number and it is different from a license. However, you will need both of these documents to operate a business in Florida.
3. Is it essential to register every business?
The larger business entities such as corporations will need to be registered. A sole proprietorship business will need to register as a DBA.
