How to Get a Business License in North Carolina

A crucial step in starting a limited liability company (LLC) in North Carolina is acquiring all the necessary licenses and permits. Depending on your business, you may need them at the federal, state, and local levels. 

Without them, you could face major penalties and even business closure. This guide lays out all you need to know to ensure full compliance in North Carolina.

Which Department Issues Business Licenses and Permits?

In most states, several agencies and departments issue licenses and permits depending on industry and location. For example, in North Carolina, business licenses and permits are issued across several departments and boards, including the Department of Health and Human Services and the Department of Public Safety.

Federally, different departments oversee different industries. As a result, licenses and permits are generally industry-specific, except for health permits from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA).

If you run a farm, your business may need a U.S. Department of Agriculture license. If your business sells fireworks, you must register with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. Most industries, however, do not require licensing at the federal level. 

The Small Business Association (SBA) has put together a handy guide that details which licenses and permits are needed for various types of businesses. 

Common Business Licenses and Permits

Here are some common licenses and permits you may need.

Federal Licenses

If a federal agency regulates your industry, you’ll need a license from that agency. Federal agencies that may require a license include:

• Department of Agriculture
• Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau
• Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives
• Department of Transportation

State Licenses

Common licenses at the state level include:

• Industry-specific licenses for certain professions and industries, such as construction, plumbing, electrical, childcare, food handling, liquor, architecture, and finance
• Health licenses and permits
• Doing business as (DBA) permits using a name other than your LLC.
• Sales tax permit

Local Licenses

At the municipal or county level, you may need the following:

• Building and zoning permits
• Health licenses and permits
• Fire permits
• Sign permits

How to Obtain a Business License in North Carolina

In North Carolina, a general business license is not required, but: 

1. Unless you’re operating as a sole proprietorship or partnership, you must register your business entity, usually as an LLC or a corporation, through the website Secretary of State. 
2. You must register for sales tax on the Department of Revenue website if you sell goods or services. 
3. Other licenses require applications with specific departments. For example, if you run a restaurant business in North Carolina, you’ll need a food establishment license through the Department of Health and Human Services. 
4. Check with local governments for required licenses and permits at the local level. 

How Much Does a Business License Cost in North Carolina?

License and permit fees vary. A sales tax permit, for instance, costs nothing in North Carolina, while forming an LLC costs $125. A food establishment license costs $120. 

Do Licenses and Permits Have to Be Renewed?

Some licenses must be renewed annually. For example, a sales tax permit in North Carolina does not expire, but food establishment licenses must be renewed annually. 

Check with issuing departments for renewal requirements for other licenses and permits.

In Closing

Obtaining licenses and permits is a critical step when starting an LLC in North Carolina, so check with state and local government offices and fully comply with their requirements. If you operate without the proper licenses and permits, you could face steep fines or even the closure of your business. 

If you’re unsure of state or local regulations and need help, consult a business attorney, as proper licensing is an absolute must.