In Texas, many business activities can require licenses or permits. Businesses selling tangible personal property or taxable services will need to obtain a sales and use tax permit from the Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts. Businesses may also have to register with the Secretary of State and file an annual franchise tax report.
Tertiary Navigation
What Business Licenses and permits do I need to operate in Texas
In Texas, businesses may have certain license, permit, and registration requirements depending on the type of business and where it is located. Many businesses will have to register with the Texas Secretary of State’s office and the Texas State Comptroller Office. While there is no general business license requirement at the state level, there are franchise tax obligations for any taxable entity doing business in Texas. Businesses may have to obtain licenses and permits (such as a general business license) at the city and/or county levels. Some industries and professions require additional state licenses, registrations, and certifications.
Here are sample license, permit, and registration requirements that may need to be completed before doing business in Texas.
- Business registration: Texas LLCs and corporations (as well as LLCs and corporations from other states) must register with the Texas Secretary of State’s office.
- Texas State Comptroller Office registration: Many businesses will need to register with the Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts and/or obtain a Texas Sales & Use Tax permit.
- State licenses for regulated industries and professions: A professional license, registration, or certification handled by a state agency may be required before business operations can commence. These requirements may apply to a business, an individual, or both. The Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) is responsible for issuing licenses for a number of trades and occupations.
- Special state permits: The manufacture and sale of products such as alcohol requires special state-issued permits and licenses.
- Federal tax ID: Also called an EIN, a federal tax ID is issued by the IRS and is included on federal tax returns filed for your business. It is also a requirement for payroll tax filings.
- Basic business license: Local municipalities in Texas may require a basic business license for the privilege of doing business in that jurisdiction.
- Other local licenses and permits: Cities and counties may impose additional business licensing and registration requirements, such as a certificate of occupancy and zoning, health, and other department permits.
- DBA registration: If a business plans to operate a business under a name other than its formation name, that business is generally required to obtain a DBA (Doing Business As) Certificate (also called a Certificate of Assumed Name) from the county clerk’s office where the business is being conducted.
- Federal licenses and registrations: Federal licenses are typically required for businesses regulated by a federal agency, such as the Securities and Exchange Commission, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms. For example, food businesses buying or selling more than 2,000 pounds of fresh or frozen fruits and vegetables will need to obtain a USDA-issued PACA license.
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Texas business licenses by industry
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Appraisal Management Company
License Type:Appraisal Services Business License
License Issued By:
Texas Appraiser Licensing and Certification BoardJurisdiction Filing Fees:
$3399 *Other Requirements:
Biennial RenewalsNotes:
*This fee may have changed since this page was last updated.
To obtain (and maintain) this license, the State of Texas requires an application, a $3,399 fee*, extensive supporting documentation, and biennial renewals.
Furthermore, the State may reject your application if you have not met certain prerequisites** prior to submission.
**Prerequisites may include registering with the Texas Secretary of State. -
Architectural Firm
License Type:
Architectural Firm LicenseLicense Issued By:
Texas Board of Architectural ExaminersJurisdiction Filing Fees:
$45 *Other Requirements:
Annual RenewalsNotes:
*This fee may have changed since this page was last updated.
To obtain (and maintain) this license, the State of Texas requires an application, a $45 fee*, extensive supporting documentation, and annual renewals.
Furthermore, the State may reject your application if you have not met certain prerequisites** prior to submission.
**Prerequisites may include registering with the Texas Secretary of State. -
Charitable Solicitation Registration
License Type:
Texas Veterans Organizations Solicitation Business LicenseLicense Issued By:
Secretary of State
Registrations Unit
P. O. Box 13550
Austin, TX 78711-3550
For Delivery:
James Earl Rudder Office Building
1019 Brazos, 5th Floor
Austin, Texas 78701Jurisdiction Filing Fees:
$150 *Other Requirements:
Periodic RenewalsNotes:
*This fee may have changed since this page was last updated.
To obtain (and maintain) this license, the State of Texas requires an application, a $150 fee*, extensive supporting documentation, and periodic renewals.
Furthermore, the State may reject your application if you have not met certain prerequisites** prior to submission.
**Prerequisites may include registering with the Texas Secretary of State. -
Collection Agency
License Type:
Third Party Debt CollectorLicense Issued By:
Secretary of State - Registrations UnitJurisdiction Filing Fees:
$10,000 surety bond *Other Requirements:
Periodic RenewalsNotes:
*This requirement may have changed since this page was last updated.
To obtain (and maintain) this license, the State of Texas requires an application, a $10,000 surety bond*, extensive supporting documentation, and periodic renewals.
Furthermore, the State may reject your application if you have not met certain prerequisites** prior to submission.
**Prerequisites may include registering with the Texas Secretary of State. -
Commercial Painter
The State of Texas does not require a state-level Commercial Painter License. However, if your business is providing commercial painting services in Texas, you may still be required to comply with other licensing laws at the state or local level. If you are unsure about whether your business needs to be licensed, contact CT Corporation to consult a licensing specialist.
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Compounding Pharmacy
License Type:
Compounding Pharmacy LicenseLicense Issued By:
Texas Board of PharmacyJurisdiction Filing Fees:
$411 *Other Requirements:
Annual RenewalsNotes:
*This fee may have changed since this page was last updated.
To obtain (and maintain) this license, the State of Texas requires an application, a $411 fee*, extensive supporting documentation, and annual renewals.
Furthermore, the State may reject your application if you have not met certain prerequisites** prior to submission.
**Prerequisites may include registering with the Texas Secretary of State. -
Cosmetology
License Type:
Cosmetology LicenseLicense Issued By:
TX Department of Licensing and RegulationJurisdiction Filing Fees:
$106 *Other Requirements:
RenewalsNotes:
*This fee may have changed since this page was last updated.
To obtain (and maintain) this license, the State of Texas requires an application, a $106 fee*, extensive supporting documentation, and periodic renewals.
Furthermore, the State may reject your application if you have not met certain prerequisites** prior to submission.
**Prerequisites may include registering with the Texas Secretary of State. -
Debt Management
License Type:
Debt Management LicenseLicense Issued By:
Officer of Consumer Credit CommissionerJurisdiction Filing Fees:
$250 plus $430 per assessment for registration *Other Requirements:
Annual RenewalsNotes:
*This fee may have changed since this page was last updated.
To obtain (and maintain) this license, the State of Texas requires an application, fees totaling at least $680*, extensive supporting documentation, and annual renewals.
Furthermore, the State may reject your application if you have not met certain prerequisites** prior to submission.
**Prerequisites may include registering with the Texas Secretary of State. -
Durable Medical Equipment
License Type:
Durable Medical Equipment LicenseLicense Issued By:
Department of State Health ServicesJurisdiction Filing Fees:
$495 to $1731 *Other Requirements:
Biennial RenewalsNotes:
*This fee may have changed since this page was last updated.
To obtain (and maintain) this license, the State of Texas requires an application, a $495 to $1,731 fee*, extensive supporting documentation, and biennial renewals.
Furthermore, the State may reject your application if you have not met certain prerequisites** prior to submission.
**Prerequisites may include registering with the Texas Secretary of State. -
Electrical Contractor
License Type:
Electrical Contractor LicenseLicense Issued By:
Department of Licensing and RegulationJurisdiction Filing Fees:
$115 *Other Requirements:
Annual RenewalsNotes:
*This fee may have changed since this page was last updated.
To obtain (and maintain) this license, the State of Texas requires an application, a $115 fee*, extensive supporting documentation, and annual renewals.
Furthermore, the State may reject your application if you have not met certain prerequisites** prior to submission.
**Prerequisites may include registering with the Texas Secretary of State. -
Employment Agency
The State of Texas does not require an Employment Agency License. However, if your business is acting as an employment agency in Texas, you may still be required to comply with other licensing laws at the state or local level. If you are unsure about whether your business needs to be licensed, contact CT Corporation to consult a licensing specialist.
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Energy Broker
The State of Texas does not require a state-level Energy Broker License. However, if your business is providing energy brokering services in Texas, you may still be required to comply with other licensing laws at the state or local level. If you are unsure about whether your business needs to be licensed, contact CT Corporation to consult a licensing specialist.
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Engineering Firm
License Type:
Engineering Firm LicenseLicense Issued By:
TX Board of Professional EngineersJurisdiction Filing Fees:
$150 *Other Requirements:
Annual RenewalsNotes:
*This fee may have changed since this page was last updated.
To obtain (and maintain) this license, the State of Texas requires an application, a $150 fee*, extensive supporting documentation, and annual renewals.
Furthermore, the State may reject your application if you have not met certain prerequisites** prior to submission.
**Prerequisites may include registering with the Texas Department of State and/or obtaining Texas Professional Engineer Licenses for certain individuals in your firm. -
Fertilizer
License Type:
Fertilizer LicenseLicense Issued By:
Texas Office of the State ChemistJurisdiction Filing Fees:
$100 *Other Requirements:
Annual RenewalsNotes:
*This fee may have changed since this page was last updated.
To obtain (and maintain) this license, the State of Texas requires an application, a $100 fee*, extensive supporting documentation, and annual renewals.
Furthermore, the State may reject your application if you have not met certain prerequisites** prior to submission.
**Prerequisites may include registering with the Texas Secretary of State. -
Fertilizer Product Registration
License Type:
Fertilizer Product RegistrationLicense Issued By:
Texas Office of the State ChemistJurisdiction Filing Fees:
$50 per product *Other Requirements:
Annual Inspection FeesNotes:
*This fee may have changed since this page was last updated.
To obtain (and maintain) this license, the State of Texas requires an application, a $50 per product fee*, extensive supporting documentation, and annual inspection fees.
Furthermore, the State may reject your application if you have not met certain prerequisites** prior to submission.
**Prerequisites may include registering with the Texas Secretary of State. -
Franchise Registration
License Type:
Franchise RegistrationLicense Issued By:
Secretary of StateJurisdiction Filing Fees:
$195 *Other Requirements:
Annual Disclosure StatementsNotes:
*This fee may have changed since this page was last updated.
To obtain (and maintain) this license, the State of Texas requires an application, a $195 fee*, extensive supporting documentation, and annual disclosure statements.
Furthermore, the State may reject your application if you have not met certain prerequisites** prior to submission.
**Prerequisites may include registering with the Texas Secretary of State. -
General Contractor
The State of Texas does not require a General Contractor Business License. However, if your business is doing construction in Texas, you may still be required to comply with other licensing laws at the state or local level. If you are unsure about whether your business needs to be licensed, contact CT Corporation to consult a licensing specialist.
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Hemp Products Retailer
License Type:
Texas Consumable Hemp Product LicenseLicense Issued By:
Department of State Health ServicesJurisdiction Filing Fees:
$155 license *Other Requirements:
This application requires fingerprinting and a background check. Renewals.Notes:
*This fee may have changed since this page was last updated.
Products must meet state labeling requirements as well as comply with marketing guidelines and THC threshholds. To obtain (and maintain) this license, the State of Texas requires an application, a $155 license fee*, fingerprinting, a background check, extensive supporting documentation, and periodic renewals.
Furthermore, the State may reject your application if you have not met certain prerequisites** prior to submission.
**Prerequisites may include registering with the Texas Secretary of State. -
Home Health Agency
License Type:
Home Health Agency LicenseLicense Issued By:
Department of Aging and Disability ServicesJurisdiction Filing Fees:
$1750 *Other Requirements:
Biennial RenewalsNotes:
*This fee may have changed since this page was last updated.
To obtain (and maintain) this license, the State of Texas requires an application, a $1,750 fee*, extensive supporting documentation, and biennial renewals.
Furthermore, the State may reject your application if you have not met certain prerequisites** prior to submission.
**Prerequisites may include registering with the Texas Secretary of State. -
Home Improvement Contractor
The State of Texas does not require a Home Improvement Contractor License. However, if your business is providing home improvement services in Texas, you may still be required to comply with other licensing laws at the state or local level. If you are unsure about whether your business needs to be licensed, contact CT Corporation to consult a licensing specialist.
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HVAC Contractor
License Type:
HVAC LicenseLicense Issued By:
Department of Licensing and RegulationJurisdiction Filing Fees:
$115 *Other Requirements:
Annual RenewalsNotes:
*This fee may have changed since this page was last updated.
To obtain (and maintain) this license, the State of Texas requires an application, a $115 fee*, extensive supporting documentation, and annual renewals.
Furthermore, the State may reject your application if you have not met certain prerequisites** prior to submission.
**Prerequisites may include registering with the Texas Secretary of State. -
Insurance Agency
License Type:
Insurance Agency LicenseLicense Issued By:
Department of Insurance LicensingJurisdiction Filing Fees:
$50 *Other Requirements:
Biennial RenewalsNotes:
*This fee may have changed since this page was last updated.
To obtain (and maintain) this license, the State of Texas requires an application, a $50 fee*, extensive supporting documentation, and biennial renewals.
Furthermore, the State may reject your application if you have not met certain prerequisites** prior to submission.
**Prerequisites may include registering with the Texas Secretary of State and/or obtaining an individual agent/broker license. -
Mail-Order Pharmacy
License Type:
Mail-Order Pharmacy LicenseLicense Issued By:
Texas Board of PharmacyJurisdiction Filing Fees:
$507 *Other Requirements:
Biennial RenewalsNotes:
*This fee may have changed since this page was last updated. An additional Control Substances Registration fee may apply.
To obtain (and maintain) this license, the State of Texas requires an application, a $507 fee*, extensive supporting documentation, and biennial renewals.
Furthermore, the State may reject your application if you have not met certain prerequisites** prior to submission.
**Prerequisites may include registering with the Texas Secretary of State and/or getting your pharmacist-in-charge licensed. -
Manufactured Home Dealer
License Type:
Manufactured Home Dealer LicenseLicense Issued By:
Manufactured Housing Division of the Texas Department of Housing and Community AffairsJurisdiction Filing Fees:
$350 to $1250 *Other Requirements:
Biennial RenewalsNotes:
*This fee may have changed since this page was last updated.
To obtain (and maintain) this license, the State of Texas requires an application, a $350 to $1,250 fee*, extensive supporting documentation, and biennial renewals.
Furthermore, the State may reject your application if you have not met certain prerequisites** prior to submission.
**Prerequisites may include registering with the Texas Secretary of State. -
Manufactured Home Installer
License Type:
Manufactured Home Installer LicenseLicense Issued By:
Manufactured Housing Division of the Texas Department of Housing and Community AffairsJurisdiction Filing Fees:
$350 to $1250 *Other Requirements:
Biennial RenewalsNotes:
*This fee may have changed since this page was last updated.
To obtain (and maintain) this license, the State of Texas requires an application, a $350 to $1,250 fee*, extensive supporting documentation, and biennial renewals.
Furthermore, the State may reject your application if you have not met certain prerequisites** prior to submission.
**Prerequisites may include registering with the Texas Secretary of State. -
Manufactured Home Manufacturer
License Type:
Manufactured Home Manufacturer LicenseLicense Issued By:
Manufactured Housing Division of the Texas Department of Housing and Community AffairsJurisdiction Filing Fees:
$850 *Other Requirements:
Biennial RenewalsNotes:
*This fee may have changed since this page was last updated.
To obtain (and maintain) this license, the State of Texas requires an application, an $850 fee*, extensive supporting documentation, and biennial renewals.
Furthermore, the State may reject your application if you have not met certain prerequisites** prior to submission.
**Prerequisites may include registering with the Texas Secretary of State. -
Money Transmitter
License Type:
Money Transmitter LicenseLicense Issued By:
Corporate Activities Division of the Texas Department of BankingJurisdiction Filing Fees:
$10,000 *Other Requirements:
Annual RenewalsNotes:
*This fee may have changed since this page was last updated.
To obtain (and maintain) this license, the State of Texas requires an application, a $10,000 fee*, extensive supporting documentation, and annual renewals.
Furthermore, the State may reject your application if you have not met certain prerequisites** prior to submission.
**Prerequisites may include registering with the Texas Secretary of State. -
Mortgage Broker
License Type:
Mortgage Broker LicenseLicense Issued By:
Department of Savings and Mortgage LendingJurisdiction Filing Fees:
$180 *Other Requirements:
Annual RenewalsNotes:
*This fee may have changed since this page was last updated.
To obtain (and maintain) this license, the State of Texas requires an application, a $180 fee*, extensive supporting documentation, and annual renewals.
Furthermore, the State may reject your application if you have not met certain prerequisites** prior to submission.
**Prerequisites may include registering with the Texas Secretary of State. -
Mortgage Lender
License Type:
Mortgage Lender LicenseLicense Issued By:
Department of Savings and Mortgage LendingJurisdiction Filing Fees:
$250 *Other Requirements:
Annual RenewalsNotes:
*This fee may have changed since this page was last updated.
To obtain (and maintain) this license, the State of Texas requires an application, a $250 fee*, extensive supporting documentation, and annual renewals.
Furthermore, the State may reject your application if you have not met certain prerequisites** prior to submission.
**Prerequisites may include registering with the Texas Secretary of State. -
Pawnbroker
License Type:
Texas Pawnbroker LicenseLicense Issued By:
Office of Consumer Credit CommissionerJurisdiction Filing Fees:
$1125 *Other Requirements:
Annual RenewalsNotes:
*This fee may have changed since this page was last updated.
To obtain (and maintain) this license, the State of Texas requires an application, a $1,125 fee*, extensive supporting documentation, and annual renewals.
Furthermore, the State may reject your application if you have not met certain prerequisites** prior to submission.
**Prerequisites may include registering with the Texas Secretary of State. -
Payday Lender
License Type:
Payday Lender LicenseLicense Issued By:
Office of Consumer Credit CommissionerJurisdiction Filing Fees:
$800 *Other Requirements:
Annual RenewalsNotes:
*This fee may have changed since this page was last updated.
To obtain (and maintain) this license, the State of Texas requires an application, an $800 fee*, extensive supporting documentation, and annual renewals.
Furthermore, the State may reject your application if you have not met certain prerequisites** prior to submission.
**Prerequisites may include registering with the Texas Secretary of State. -
Pesticide Product Registration
License Type:
Pesticide Product RegistrationLicense Issued By:
Texas Department of AgricultureJurisdiction Filing Fees:
$620 *Other Requirements:
Biennial RenewalsNotes:
*This fee may have changed since this page was last updated and is per product registered.
To obtain (and maintain) this license, the State of Texas requires an application, a $620 fee*, extensive supporting documentation, and biennial renewals.
Furthermore, the State may reject your application if you have not met certain prerequisites** prior to submission.
**Prerequisites may include registering with the Texas Secretary of State. -
Pet Shop
The State of Texas does not require a Pet Shop License. However, if your business is operating a pet shop in Texas, you may still be required to comply with other licensing laws at the state or local level. If you are unsure about whether your business needs to be licensed, contact CT Corporation to consult a licensing specialist.
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Pharmacy
License Type:
Pharmacy LicenseLicense Issued By:
Texas Board of PharmacyJurisdiction Filing Fees:
$459 *, an inspectionOther Requirements:
Biennial RenewalsNotes:
*This fee may have changed since this page was last updated. An additional Controlled Substance Registration fee may apply.
To obtain (and maintain) this license, the State of Texas requires an application, a $459 fee*, an inspection, extensive supporting documentation, and biennial renewals.
Furthermore, the State may reject your application if you have not met certain prerequisites** prior to submission.
**Prerequisites may include registering with the Texas Secretary of State and licensing your Pharmacist-in-Charge. -
Plumbing Contractor
License Type:
Texas Plumbing Contractor LicenseLicense Issued By:
State Board of Plumbing ExaminersJurisdiction Filing Fees:
$175 *Other Requirements:
RenewalsNotes:
*This fee may have changed since this page was last updated.
To obtain (and maintain) this license, the State of Texas requires an application, a $175 fee*, extensive supporting documentation, and periodic renewals.
Furthermore, the State may reject your application if you have not met certain prerequisites** prior to submission.
**Prerequisites may include registering with the Texas Secretary of State.
-
Private Investigation Agency
License Type:
Private Investigation Agency LicenseLicense Issued By:
Department of Public Safety's Private Security BureauJurisdiction Filing Fees:
$361 *Other Requirements:
Annual RenewalsNotes:
*This fee may have changed since this page was last updated.
To obtain (and maintain) this license, the State of Texas requires an application, a $361 fee*, extensive supporting documentation, and annual renewals.
Furthermore, the State may reject your application if you have not met certain prerequisites** prior to submission.
**Prerequisites may include registering with the Texas Secretary of State. -
Private Security
License Type:
Private Security LicenseLicense Issued By:
Department of Public SafetyJurisdiction Filing Fees:
$412 *Other Requirements:
Annual RenewalsNotes:
*This fee may have changed since this page was last updated.
To obtain (and maintain) this license, the State of Texas requires an application, a $412 fee*, extensive supporting documentation, and annual renewals.
Furthermore, the State may reject your application if you have not met certain prerequisites** prior to submission.
**Prerequisites may include registering with the Texas Secretary of State. -
Professional Engineer
License Type:
Professional Engineer LicenseLicense Issued By:
Texas Board of Professional EngineersJurisdiction Filing Fees:
$80 *Other Requirements:
Annual RenewalsNotes:
*This fee may have changed since this page was last updated.
To obtain (and maintain) this license, the State of Texas requires an application, a $80 fee*, extensive supporting documentation, and annual renewals.
Furthermore, the State may reject your application if you have not met certain prerequisites** prior to submission.
**Prerequisites may include registering with the Texas Secretary of State. -
Residential Painter
The State of Texas does not require a Residential Painter License. However, if your business is providing residential painting services in Texas, you may still be required to comply with other licensing laws at the state or local level. If you are unsure about whether your business needs to be licensed, contact CT Corporation to consult a licensing specialist.
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Roofing Contractor
The State of Texas does not require a Roofing Contractor License. However, if your business is providing roofing services in Texas, you may still be required to comply with other licensing laws at the state or local level. If you are unsure about whether your business needs to be licensed, contact CT Corporation to consult a licensing specialist.
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Sales Tax ID
License Type:
Sales Tax IDLicense Issued By:
Texas Comptroller of Public AccountsOther Requirements:
Tax ReturnsNotes:
**Prerequisites may include registering with the Texas Secretary of State.
To obtain (and maintain) this license, the State of Texas requires an application, extensive supporting documentation, and tax returns.
Furthermore, the State may reject your application if you have not met certain prerequisites** prior to submission. -
Secondhand Dealer
The State of Texas does not require a Secondhand Dealer License. However, if your business is dealing in secondhand goods in Texas, you may still be required to comply with other licensing laws at the state or local level. If you are unsure about whether your business needs to be licensed, contact CT Corporation to consult a licensing specialist.
-
Solar Contractor
License Type:
Texas Solar Contractor LicenseLicense Issued By:
Department of Licensing and RegulationJurisdiction Filing Fees:
$110 *Other Requirements:
Annual RenewalsNotes:
*This fee may have changed since this page was last updated.
To obtain (and maintain) this license, the State of Texas requires an application, a $110 fee*, extensive supporting documentation, and annual renewals.
Furthermore, the State may reject your application if you have not met certain prerequisites** prior to submission.
**Prerequisites may include registering with the Texas Secretary of State. -
Staff Leasing Agency
License Type:
Staff Leasing Agency LicenseLicense Issued By:
Department of Licensing and RegulationJurisdiction Filing Fees:
$300 to $700 *Other Requirements:
Annual RenewalsNotes:
*This fee may have changed since this page was last updated.
To obtain (and maintain) this license, the State of Texas requires an application, a $300 to $700 fee*, extensive supporting documentation, and annual renewals.
Furthermore, the State may reject your application if you have not met certain prerequisites** prior to submission.
**Prerequisites may include registering with the Texas Secretary of State. -
Talent Agency
The State of Texas does not require a Talent Agency License. However, if your business is acting as a talent agency in Texas, you may still be required to comply with other licensing laws at the state or local level. If you are unsure about whether your business needs to be licensed, contact CT Corporation to consult a licensing specialist.
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Tattoo Parlor
License Type:
Tattoo Parlor LicenseLicense Issued By:
Department of State Health ServicesJurisdiction Filing Fees:
$928 *Other Requirements:
Annual RenewalsNotes:
*This fee may have changed since this page was last updated.
To obtain (and maintain) this license, the State of Texas requires an application, a $928 fee*, extensive supporting documentation, and annual renewals.
Furthermore, the State may reject your application if you have not met certain prerequisites** prior to submission.
**Prerequisites may include registering with the Texas Secretary of State. -
Telemarketing
License Type:
Telemarketing LicenseLicense Issued By:
Secretary of StateJurisdiction Filing Fees:
$200 *Other Requirements:
Annual RenewalsNotes:
*This fee may have changed since this page was last updated.
To obtain (and maintain) this license, the State of Texas requires an application, a $200 fee*, extensive supporting documentation, and annual renewals.
Furthermore, the State may reject your application if you have not met certain prerequisites** prior to submission.
**Prerequisites may include registering with the Texas Secretary of State. -
Title Agency
License Type:
Texas Title Agency Business LicenseLicense Issued By:
Department of InsuranceJurisdiction Filing Fees:
$50 *Other Requirements:
Biennial RenewalsNotes:
*This fee may have changed since this page was last updated.
To obtain (and maintain) this license, the State of Texas requires an application, a $50 fee*, extensive supporting documentation, and biennial renewals.
Furthermore, the State may reject your application if you have not met certain prerequisites** prior to submission.
**Prerequisites may include registering with the Texas Secretary of State. -
Tobacco Retail
License Type:
Tobacco Retail LicenseLicense Issued By:
Comptroller of Public AccountsJurisdiction Filing Fees:
$180 *Other Requirements:
Annual RenewalsNotes:
*This fee may have changed since this page was last updated.
To obtain (and maintain) this license, the State of Texas requires an application, a $180 fee*, extensive supporting documentation, and annual renewals.
Furthermore, the State may reject your application if you have not met certain prerequisites** prior to submission.
**Prerequisites may include registering with the Texas Secretary of State and/or obtaining a Sales Tax ID. -
Tobacco Wholesale
License Type:
Tobacco Wholesale LicenseLicense Issued By:
Comptroller of Public AccountsJurisdiction Filing Fees:
$200 to $300 *Other Requirements:
Annual RenewalsNotes:
*This fee may have changed since this page was last updated.
To obtain (and maintain) this license, the State of Texas requires an application, a $200 to $300 fee*, extensive supporting documentation, and annual renewals.
Furthermore, the State may reject your application if you have not met certain prerequisites** prior to submission.
**Prerequisites may include registering with the Texas Secretary of State. -
Unemployment Tax ID
License Type:
Unemployment Tax IDLicense Issued By:
Texas Workforce CommissionOther Requirements:
Tax ReturnsNotes:
**Prerequisites may include registering with the Texas Secretary of State.
To obtain (and maintain) this license, the State of Texas requires an application, extensive supporting documentation, and tax returns.
Furthermore, the State may reject your application if you have not met certain prerequisites** prior to submission. -
Wholesale Drug Distributor
License Type:
Wholesale Drug Distributor LicenseLicense Issued By:
Texas Department of StateJurisdiction Filing Fees:
$1080 to $2295 *Other Requirements:
Biennial RenewalsNotes:
*This fee may have changed since this page was last updated.
To obtain (and maintain) this license, the State of Texas requires an application, a $1080 to $2295 fee*, extensive supporting documentation, and biennial renewals.
Furthermore, the State may reject your application if you have not met certain prerequisites** prior to submission.
**Prerequisites may include registering with the Texas Secretary of State. -
Withholding Tax ID
The State of Texas (TX) does not require a Withholding Tax ID. However, if your business is paying wages to employees in Texas, you may still be required to comply with other licensing laws at the state or local level. If you are unsure about whether your business needs to be licensed, contact CT Corporation to consult a licensing specialist.
Contact us
Contact CT Corporation to secure your business license.
Business licenses in Texas (TX) counties
There are 254 Texas counties none of which require a Basic Business License.
However, your business may be required to obtain a Basic Business License at the local level or comply with other licensing laws, based on your business location and activity.
Let CT Corporation help you determine the licenses and registrations your business needs and guide you through the process of obtaining them. For information regarding industry specific licenses issued by Texas, contact us today!
Contact us
Contact CT Corporation to secure your business license.
Texas business license FAQs
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How do I get a business license in Texas?
The requirements and processes for obtaining the necessary licenses and permits for doing business in Texas depend on the type of business and the location. Here are the general steps you may need to take when obtaining business licenses and permits in Texas:
- Research licensing requirements. Researching these requirements takes planning and organization. When checking local licensing requirements, verify the precise location of your business location, and check zoning requirements.
- Register your business entity. Legal entities such as corporations and LLCs must register with the Texas Secretary of State’s office.
- Obtain an EIN.
- Register with the Texas State Comptroller Office.
- Apply for any necessary federal and state licenses, registrations, and permits.
- File a DBA (if necessary).
- Obtain local business licenses, permits, and approvals.
Keep in mind that you will need to renew and update your business licenses and permits as necessary. It is important to track renewal dates and update your business licenses if there are any changes to your business, such as a name change, address, officer/directors, etc.
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What are the penalties for not obtaining necessary licenses and permits in Texas?Fines and penalties for not getting the proper business licenses and permits vary based on the violation. For example, if a seller does not obtain a sales and use tax permit, the seller is still obligated to properly collect and remit sales and use taxes. In addition to the amount due, the seller could owe additional tax, penalties, and interest. Criminal penalties can also apply to those who intentionally or knowingly fail to remit sales taxes.
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How much is a business license in Texas?While Texas does not require a general business license, there are other costs involved with doing business in the state. The filing fee to form an LLC or a standard corporation in Texas is $300. The filing fee for foreign LLCs and corporations is $750.
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Is obtaining a business license the same as registering your business in Texas?A general business license is an approval or permit issued by the local government authorizing a business to operate within a specific jurisdiction. To form an LLC or corporation in Texas, you must file Articles of Organization or Incorporation with the Texas Secretary of State’s office. You may also need to obtain an EIN with the IRS and register with the Texas State Comptroller Office.
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What are the New Licensing Requirements for Texas Pharmacies?
Does your pharmacy compound sterile preparations? If so, you should know that The Texas State Board of Pharmacy (TSBP) recently adopted amendments pursuant to TSBP Rule(s) 291.133 and 291.106 relating to pre-packaging and distribution of pharmaceutical products. These new rules require all pharmacies that compound sterile preparations to change their pharmacy classification by applying for new Class E-S Pharmacy licensing, effective September 1st, 2014.
To complete this process, pharmacies must apply, at no cost, for licensing and provide supplemental documentation evidencing a current inspection report conducted by the regulatory or licensing agency of your resident state no more than two years prior to the date of submission of the application. Upon approval of your Class E-S license, you will receive an amended pharmacy license certificate and you will be required to return the former certificate to TSBP. This change in license WILL NOT change your pharmacy license number or your expiration date.
However, if your pharmacy compounds sterile preparations and fails to obtain a Class E-S Pharmacy license by September 1st, 2014, you will be mandated to cease delivery of compounded sterile preparations into Texas until your license is obtained. Don’t delay and risk halting your business functions.
If your pharmacy is affected by this change in the Texas Rules, please consider allowing CT Corporation to facilitate a seamless transition in your licensing classification. Our skilled account managers will prepare all documents, file all forms, and verify that your pharmacy class change is issued promptly. To start the process now, please contact CT Corporation to consult a licensing specialist.
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How do I obtain a Reinsurance Brokerage License?
In order to obtain a Reinsurance Brokerage (or Reinsurance Intermediary Broker) license an applicant must generally: (1) Complete a NAIC Uniform Individual Application to be registered with the National Insurance Producer Registry; and (2) Pay both the state license application and state license fee. For non-resident applicants, a certification from their home state is often required as well. However, different states have requirements that vary depending upon their respective jurisdiction.
Some states have simplistic requirements. In Massachusetts an applicant must: (1) Complete an application form; and (2) Write a check made payable to the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Division of Insurance, in the amount of $200.00. For non-resident applicants, a Certificate of Good Standing from your home state indicating you are licensed in good standing as a reinsurance broker is required as well. In Florida, an applicant must: (1) Complete an application for the license and submit appropriate fees. In addition, the applicant must be fingerprinted. Each person applying for the first time in Florida and qualifying for a license as a reinsurance broker shall attach a full detailed credit and character report for the 5-year period immediately prior to the date of application.
Some states have stringent requirements. In Georgia, applicants need to file a Certification Application for Certified Reinsurer. The applicant must be domiciled and licensed to transact insurance or reinsurance in what is called a "Qualified Jurisdiction." A qualified jurisdiction is a jurisdiction that is 1) an accredited jurisdiction in accordance with the NAIC financial and standards accreditation program; 2) qualified by the Commissioner as a qualified jurisdiction in accordance with the standards set forth in Ga. Reg. § 120-2-78-.08(3)(b); or 3) is a jurisdiction that is designated as a qualified jurisdiction by the Reinsurance Task Force, or working group thereof, and published through the NAIC Committee Process. The application fee is $600 for the initial application, and $700 for an annual renewal. There is a litany of additional requirements for licensure as well.
We will help you obtain all the licenses your reinsurance company needs. Our license experts will compile all applications for you and provided detailed instructions on how to apply and the fees associated with each application. CT Corporation can complete all applications for you and streamline the process. Please contact CT Corporation to consult a licensing specialist.
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What is a business license?A business license is an approval or permit issued by a government agency that authorizes a business to operate within a specific jurisdiction. This license is often an additional requirement beyond the registration of a business at the state level. Whether a business is required to have a specific license depends on such factors as the nature of the business, types of products sold, and location.
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How often do business licenses renew?Businesses are often reliant upon their own compliance tracking to stay on top of renewals. While the licensing jurisdiction may send a renewal notice, entities should not rely on this reminder method. CT Corporation has developed a Client License Information Center, CLiC, to help manage the renewal process and avoid delinquent charges and fines.
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How long are business licenses valid?The term of a license is entirely dependent on the type of license. Some licenses are good for the life of the business while others must be renewed annually or every two years. However, laws can change frequently so businesses must stay abreast of changes that affect the term of their license.
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What is a sales tax ID?Although Sales and Use Tax registrations would seem to be the most basic of business license filings, the requirements can vary from state to state, county to county and sometimes even by municipality. These applications can be confusing and time consuming. Contact CT Corporation for assistance.
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What is an EIN?An EIN is a unique nine digit number assigned by the IRS is used to identify business entities and is also known by other names such as 'Federal Tax Identification Number' and 'Tax Identification Number (TIN)'.
Article
ComplianceSeptember 20, 2024
Property management business licensing in Texas
Property management companies in Texas may be required to obtain a Real Estate Broker License. CT Corporation can help!
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Let us take care of the paperwork for you!
We will prepare and file your application, and we will follow up with the State until you have received your New York state license.
As licensing experts, we will streamline the entire licensing process, making it as painless as possible.
We will prepare and file your application, and we will follow up with the State until you have received your New York state license.
As licensing experts, we will streamline the entire licensing process, making it as painless as possible.