How to Apply for a Business License in Georgia

There’s a critical thing that business owners need to take care of before they start operating in the Peach State. Whether you run a limited liability company or a corporation, your business most likely requires a business license – or several – to stay in good standing. 

Georgia Business License: Key Takeaways

• A business license is an important document that permits your business to carry out specific activities within a particular location. 

• Licensing requirements exist at the federal, state, and local levels. Getting a federal license doesn’t satisfy state or local requirements. 

• Georgia doesn’t have a general business license requirement. However, you may still need a state license, depending on the nature of your business. 

What Is a Business License?

A business license is a crucial legal document that gives businesses official permission to operate in a specific location. In Georgia, it also reflects your commitment to running a legitimate and trustworthy company in the eyes of your community. 

Your small business may need to obtain different types of business licenses or permits. Georgia doesn’t require a general state license. Still, you may need to apply for a federal permit, a local license, or an occupational license. You’re responsible for researching the licenses your business needs as a business owner. 

Remember that registering a business, such as a limited liability company or a DBA, is not the same as applying for a business license. First, you must form a legal entity and obtain the necessary licenses and permits to stay compliant afterward.

Get Your Georgia Business License in 8 Steps

Many entrepreneurs need clarification on the process of obtaining business licenses. There’s much to understand, from state licenses to occupational tax certificates. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed, but don’t worry. We’ll walk you through the steps to obtain licenses and permits to keep your business compliant. 

Step 1: Apply for Georgia General Business Licenses

Some states require all businesses to obtain a general business license to operate in the state. However, Georgia does not have a general state license requirement. 

However, your small business may still need to obtain other types of business licenses. For example, you may need a professional license or a local license to satisfy the requirements of your county or city. Your business may face multiple licensing requirements depending on your industry and location. 

Step 2: Apply for Federal Licenses for Georgia Businesses

The federal government oversees specific industries like transportation, selling alcohol, and firearms. If your new business engages in activities that federal agencies regulate, you need to obtain a federal business license. 

Business activities that require federal licensing include:[1] 

• Agriculture

• Alcoholic beverages

• Aviation

• Firearms, ammunition, and explosives

• Fish and wildlife

• Commercial fishing

• Maritime transportation

• Mining and drilling

• Nuclear energy

• Radio and television broadcasting

• Transportation and logistics

Contact the agency overseeing your industry to get a federal license or permit. For example, the Department of Agriculture regulates activities like importing or transporting animals or plants across state lines. 

Business owners should remember that obtaining a federal license doesn’t satisfy state or local requirements. You may need to get additional permits to comply with the law. For example, if you want to sell alcoholic beverages, you may need to obtain federal, state, and local licenses. 

Step 3: Search for Georgia Permits and Licenses

You may be required to get other state licenses depending on the nature of your business. Here are a few examples of additional licenses that your business may need to obtain: 

• Alcohol license: You need an alcohol license to sell alcoholic beverages in Georgia, whether you sell them at your restaurant or a grocery store.

• Buying Service Licenses: If you run a facility that requires a membership fee, such as a gym or a club, you must obtain an annual license.[2]

• Sales tax permit: You must register for a sales and use tax number if your business activities involve selling products and specific services, even if it is online, wholesale, out of state, or exempt from tax.[3]

Research Georgia state licensing requirements and get all the necessary licenses and permits before starting your business. Remember that your local government may have additional requirements, such as a building permit or a professional license. 

Step 4: Search for Local County or City Georgia Business Licenses

Your city or county may require you to get additional licenses to stay in compliance with local laws. For example, Atlanta requires all businesses operating within city limits to get a general business license.[4] In turn, all companies operating in Savannah must obtain a business tax certificate, similar to a general business license. 

Local licensing requirements can be extensive. You may need a professional license, a building permit, a zoning permit, an ordinance, and more. Contact your city’s local tax office to learn more about your local requirements. 

Step 5: Search for Georgia Professional Licenses

Certain professions require additional licenses to ensure a high quality of service or care. Georgia has numerous licensing boards that regulate various types of business industries. Examples of specialists who need professional licenses include: 

• Veterinarians 

• Cosmetologists 

• Plumbers 

• Librarians

• Private detectives 

• Massage therapists

• Lactation consultants

• Dieticians

This is not an exhaustive list. You can refer to the Georgia Secretary of State website to research if you need a professional business license to operate in the state. 

Step 6: Apply for a Georgia Home-Based Business License

You may need state or local business licenses to run your new business from home. The type of licenses or permits your small business needs depends on the type of business you run and your business location. For example, running a family child learning facility or a daycare center from home requires extensive licensing and specialized training. 

Check with your county or city for specific rules and regulations for home occupation licenses.

Step 7: Maintain Your Georgia Business License

Most business licenses, occupational tax certificates, and business tax certificates must be renewed regularly, typically once a year. You must maintain your licenses and permits up to date to stay in good standing in Georgia.  

Apply for a Georgia Business License Online

Figuring out what business licenses and permits your new business needs and filing your business license applications doesn’t have to be complicated. Tell us a little about your small business, and we’ll obtain federal, state, and local licenses you need to stay in good standing. Get started here. 

FAQs

How do I get a business license in Georgia?

Start with determining what business licenses you need at the federal, state, and local levels. Then, file applications with the appropriate government agencies.  

Does Georgia require a general business license?

No, Georgia doesn’t require a general business license. However, your county or city may have a general business license requirement. 

Can you sell things in Georgia without a license?

No, you must obtain a sales tax permit from the Georgia Department of Revenue. 

Do I need a special license for an online business in Georgia?

There’s no special license for an online business in Georgia. However, you must still satisfy federal, state, and local requirements. 

Can I collect sales tax in Georgia without a license?

You need a sales tax permit to collect sales tax. 

How much does a Georgia business license cost?

It depends on the type of license that you’re applying for.  

What’s the penalty for not having a business license in Georgia?

Operating your business without proper licenses and permits can lead to severe consequences, such as fines or even shutting down your business. 

Bibliography

1. US Small Business Administration. “Apply for licenses and permits.” Accessed October 19, 2023.

2. Georgia Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division. “Buying Service Licenses.” Accessed October 19, 2023. 

3. Department of Revenue. “Sales and Use Tax Registration - FAQ.” Accessed October 19, 2023. 

4. City of Atlanta, GA. “Applying for a New Business License.” Accessed October 19, 2023.