How to Get Business License and Permits in Florida


Steve Goldstein
Steve Goldstein
Business Formation Expert
Steve Goldstein runs LLCBuddy, helping entrepreneurs set up their LLCs easily. He offers clear guides, articles, and FAQs to simplify the process. His team keeps everything accurate and current, focusing on state rules, registered agents, and compliance. Steve’s passion for helping businesses grow makes LLCBuddy a go-to resource for starting and managing an LLC.

All Posts by Steve Goldstein →
Business Formation Expert  |   Fact Checked by Editorial Staff
Last updated: 
LLCBuddy™ offers informative content for educational purposes only, not as a substitute for professional legal or tax advice. We may earn commissions if you use the services we recommend on this site.
At LLCBuddy, we don't just offer information; we provide a curated experience backed by extensive research and expertise. Led by Steve Goldstein, a seasoned expert in the LLC formation sector, our platform is built on years of hands-on experience and a deep understanding of the nuances involved in establishing and running an LLC. We've navigated the intricacies of the industry, sifted through the complexities, and packaged our knowledge into a comprehensive, user-friendly guide. Our commitment is to empower you with reliable, up-to-date, and actionable insights, ensuring you make informed decisions. With LLCBuddy, you're not just getting a tutorial; you're gaining a trustworthy partner for your entrepreneurial journey.
Get Business License and Permits in Florida

One of the critical aspects of setting up a successful business in Florida is navigating the process of obtaining the necessary licenses and permits. These legal prerequisites ensure that your business operations comply with Florida regulations, protect your investment, and minimize potential liabilities. Business licenses and permits are as important as registering your business. If you want to start a business in Florida, you must obtain diverse licenses and permits to run the business.

One must know that registering the business and applying for licenses are not the same in Florida. There might be some businesses that need to be registered but do not need any licenses or permits. For example, for a graphic designing business, if you create an LLC in Florida, you must register your LLC with the secretary of state. Still, you don’t mandatorily need to obtain a business license. Florida, popularly knowns as The Sunshine State, has some rules and regulations when it comes to starting a business. You need to apply for state and federal licenses. In many states, you might also need local licenses based on the nature of your business.

In this article, we will explore the ins and outs of applying for business licenses and permits in Florida. To ensure a smooth application process, we recommend reading this article in its entirety before proceeding with your license applications.

What is Business License and Permit in Florida

If you’re running a business or are willing to start one, you must know about the licenses and permits. A business license is permission from the government to operate a business of any nature in Florida. Typically, as a driver’s license allows you to drive your car, a business license allows you to run your business.

Business licenses are different from business registration. The registration process depends on the structure of your business, for example, Florida LLC. But a business license depends on your industry. For example, a graphic designer may not need to get a license but must register their business in Florida. So, your LLC might not need a specific license, but if you are selling medical cannabis, you must get the proper license for it.

Most states in the United States need a general business license. Florida is one of those states where businesses do not need to obtain this license. Besides, you must get state and federal licenses.

What Do You Need Before You Apply For Business Licenses and Permits

If you’re in the initial step of forming an LLC or any business, you must wait until your business registration in Florida is done. Once you are done with all the steps to file your business in Florida, you must be ready with the following documents to apply for the business licenses,

You may need other types of documents before you apply for the business licenses, depending on the business nature. Checking with the local city/county authorities for better information is recommended for clearer information.

–LLCBuddy Editorial Team

How to Apply for Business Licenses and Permits in Florida

In Florida, applying for business licenses and permits is easy. Before applying for it, check with the local authority for license requirements. Here, we have shared three broad categories of licenses. One, State permits and licenses. Two, federal licenses, and finally, a professional license.

Step 1: Get State Licenses and Permits in Florida

Obviously, the state where you will conduct your business must have some license requirements. You need to search for the required permits and licenses in the state. Businesses must apply to the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation for state licenses. You can search for business licenses in several ways. Read about how to do a business license search to know the process and requirements.

In some states, it is mandatory to get a privileged license. Florida is no doubt a business-friendly state. It is one of the states that do not need to get the privilege license. Businesses must go to the official website of the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation and search for the licenses and permits they require based on their business.

Step 2: Get Federal Licenses and Permits

Once you’re done applying for State licenses, it is time to apply for Federal business licenses. Following are the licenses one must have if they are conducting business in the following fields,

  • Agriculture: License issued by The U.S. Department of Agriculture
  • Aviation: License issued by The Federal Aviation Administration
  • Alcohol & Tobacco: License issued by The Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau
  • Ammunition, Explosive, & Firearms: License issued by The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives.
  • Radio & Television (Broadcast): License issued by The Federal Communications Commission
  • Mining & Drilling: License issued by The Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement
  • Commercial Fisheries: License issued by The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Fisheries Service
  • Wildlife & Fisheries: License issued by The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
  • Nuclear Energy: License issued by The U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission
  • Transportation by Sea: License issued by The Federal Maritime Commission

If your business belongs to any of the industries mentioned above, you must obtain state as well as federal licenses.

Step 3: Search for Other State Permits and Licenses in Florida

Apart from general business licenses and privilege licenses, there might be other licenses and permits that businesses must obtain in Florida. As I mentioned, business licenses solely depend on the type of industry you are in. Different states have different licensing policies. You must go to the official website of the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation to find out the special licenses your business needs.

You will also find the probate offices in Florida through the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation website. You can drop by the probate office and find out the details about your licenses. Some common permits, such as building permits, health permits, signage permits, zoning permits, and environmental permits, are required if you’re in a related industry.

Step 4: City-based Permits and Licenses in Florida

Now, it’s time to consider local authority requirements. Once you’ve completed federal and state formalities, you should check with your local city authorities for any additional permits that may be required. In some cases, certain permits might be issued by local government offices rather than state or federal agencies. As a result, it’s essential to visit your local government office soon after setting up your business to apply for any necessary permits.

Keep in mind that you may come across some licenses that may not seem directly related to your profession. For example, you might not think you need a health permit as a hairstylist. However, it might be a requirement in your city. Such permits help protect you and your fellow Florida entrepreneurs from potential legal issues.

Step 5: Home-based Business Licence in Florida

The licensing is different if your business is home-based in Florida. An initial inspection takes place based on the type of business you are conducting from your home. For example, if you are selling homemade edibles, then it is necessary to check the place’s hygiene. Florida state and local authorities will visit your home to check if things are good and hygienic. Based on that, you will get the permit or license to run a home-based business in Florida.

Home-based business licenses are issued on the basis of the nature of your business. Issuance, expiration, and renewal of this type of license are different from conventional state and federal licenses. To know more about home-based business license requirements, do pay a visit to the local revenue office.

Step 6: Get a Professional License in Florida

This is a special type of license. A professional license is issued only to those with special education, training, and degree. For example, teachers, nurses, doctors, and engineers are eligible to get this license.

In Florida, professionals like doctors, engineers, teachers, and nurses obtain this license to start working independently in these fields. Professional Licenses are issued by the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation and only to those with special education, degree, and/or training.

How to Maintain Your Business Licenses in Florida

In Florida, businesses typically need to maintain two types of licenses: general state and federal licenses and professional licenses. General state and federal licenses usually expire after one year and are automatically renewed, provided the business is in good standing. Once expired, entrepreneurs must pay the annual fees to renew these licenses.

The rules for professional licenses in Florida are slightly different. In order to maintain or renew a professional license, individuals often need to complete continuing education requirements. For example, a doctor with a professional license must continue studying and training to stay up-to-date with new medical technology and treatments. The professional can renew their license after finishing the required training or education.

FAQs

How do I obtain a business license in Florida?
To obtain a business license in Florida, you must contact the Department of Business and Professional Regulation. They will be able to provide you with the necessary forms and information you need to apply for a business license.
What types of permits and licenses do I need to do business in Florida?
Depending on the type of business you plan to operate in Florida, you may need to obtain a variety of permits and licenses. Some of the most common include sales and use tax, occupational license, and local business tax.
What are the requirements for getting a business license in Florida?
To obtain a business license in Florida, you must meet certain requirements that vary by business type. Generally, you will need to provide proof of identity, proof of business address and contact information, and proof of business ownership. You may also need to provide additional documents or information depending on the type of business.
What is the cost of getting a business license in Florida?
The cost of obtaining a business license in Florida varies depending on the type of license and the county in which you are applying. Generally, the cost of obtaining a business license ranges from $50 to $500.
How long does it take to get a business license in Florida?
The amount of time it takes to obtain a business license in Florida depends on the type of license and the county in which you are applying. Generally, it can take between 3 and 10 days to receive the license.
What is the difference between a business license and a business permit?
A business license is a type of legal authorization that is needed to operate a business in a certain geographic area. A business permit is a type of legal authorization that is needed to operate a business in a certain industry.
What is the penalty for operating a business without a license in Florida?
Operating a business without a license in Florida is a criminal offense and can result in fines, jail time, and other penalties.
Do I need a special permit to sell alcohol in Florida?
Yes, you need a special permit to sell alcohol in Florida. This type of permit is known as a liquor license.
What type of professional license do I need to practice in Florida?
Depending on the type of profession you wish to practice, you may need to obtain a professional license from the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation. This may include professions such as health care, accounting, engineering, architecture, and more.
How do I apply for a professional license in Florida?
To apply for a professional license in Florida, you will need to complete the online application on the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation website. You may also need to provide additional documents or information depending on the type of license you are applying for.
What is the cost of obtaining a professional license in Florida?
The cost of obtaining a professional license in Florida varies depending on the type of license and the county in which you are applying. Generally, the cost of obtaining a professional license ranges from $50 to $500.
How long does it take to get a professional license in Florida?
The amount of time it takes to obtain a professional license in Florida depends on the type of license and the county in which you are applying. Generally, it can take between 3 and 10 days to receive the license.
Do I need a permit to operate a food truck in Florida?
Yes, you need a permit to operate a food truck in Florida. This type of permit is known as a mobile food service license.
What type of permit do I need to open a restaurant in Florida?
To open a restaurant in Florida, you need to obtain an occupational license from the Department of Business and Professional Regulation.
How do I apply for a mobile food service license in Florida?
To apply for a mobile food service license in Florida, you will need to complete the online application on the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation website.
What is the cost of obtaining a mobile food service license in Florida?
The cost of obtaining a mobile food service license in Florida varies depending on the type of license and the county in which you are applying. Generally, the cost of obtaining a mobile food service license ranges from $50 to $500.
How long does it take to get a mobile food service license in Florida?
The amount of time it takes to obtain a mobile food service license in Florida depends on the type of license and the county in which you are applying. Generally, it can take between 3 and 10 days to receive the license.
Do I need a special permit to sell firearms in Florida?
Yes, you need a special permit to sell firearms in Florida. This type of permit is known as a firearms dealer license.
What type of permit do I need to open a bar in Florida?
To open a bar in Florida, you need to obtain a liquor license from the Department of Business and Professional Regulation.
How do I apply for a firearms dealer license in Florida?
To apply for a firearms dealer license in Florida, you will need to complete the online application on the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation website.
What is the cost of obtaining a firearms dealer license in Florida?
The cost of obtaining a firearms dealer license in Florida varies depending on the type of license and the county in which you are applying. Generally, the cost of obtaining a firearms dealer license ranges from $50 to $500.
How long does it take to get a firearms dealer license in Florida?
The amount of time it takes to obtain a firearms dealer license in Florida depends on the type of license and the county in which you are applying. Generally, it can take between 3 and 10 days to receive the license.
Do I need a special permit to sell lottery tickets in Florida?
Yes, you need a special permit to sell lottery tickets in Florida. This type of permit is known as a lottery sales agent license.
What type of permit do I need to open a casino in Florida?
To open a casino in Florida, you need to obtain a gaming license from the Department of Business and Professional Regulation.
How do I apply for a lottery sales agent license in Florida?
To apply for a lottery sales agent license in Florida, you will need to complete the online application on the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation website.
What is the cost of obtaining a lottery sales agent license in Florida?
The cost of obtaining a lottery sales agent license in Florida varies depending on the type of license and the county in which you are applying. Generally, the cost of obtaining a lottery sales agent license ranges from $50 to $500.
How long does it take to get a lottery sales agent license in Florida?
The amount of time it takes to obtain a lottery sales agent license in Florida depends on the type of license and the county in which you are applying. Generally, it can take between 3 and 10 days to receive the license.
Do I need a special permit to operate a daycare in Florida?
Yes, you need a special permit to operate a daycare in Florida. This type of permit is known as a childcare facility license.
What type of permit do I need to open a hotel in Florida?
To open a hotel in Florida, you need to obtain a hotel and motel license from the Department of Business and Professional Regulation.
How do I apply for a childcare facility license in Florida?
To apply for a childcare facility license in Florida, you will need to complete the online application on the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation website.
What is the cost of obtaining a childcare facility license in Florida?
The cost of obtaining a childcare facility license in Florida varies depending on the type of license and the county in which you are applying. Generally, the cost of obtaining a childcare facility license ranges from $50 to $500.
How long does it take to get a childcare facility license in Florida?
The amount of time it takes to obtain a childcare facility license in Florida depends on the type of license and the county in which you are applying. Generally, it can take between 3 and 10 days to receive the license.

Also Read

Why Florida Licenses Permits is So Important

First and foremost, Florida licenses permits are integral to ensuring public safety and protecting the well-being of residents and visitors alike. For businesses operating in industries such as construction, food service, or healthcare, licenses are necessary to demonstrate that employees have the required training and expertise to perform their jobs safely and effectively. Permits, on the other hand, serve as a regulatory tool to ensure that buildings, structures, and events comply with established safety standards to prevent potential hazards and risks to the public.

Furthermore, licenses and permits are essential for environmental protection and conservation efforts in the state of Florida. Agencies responsible for overseeing natural resources and wildlife management depend on permits to monitor and regulate activities that have the potential to impact the environment, such as construction projects near wetlands or coastal areas. By obtaining the necessary permits, individuals and organizations can contribute to preserving the unique biodiversity and natural beauty that Florida is known for.

In addition to upholding safety and environmental standards, Florida licenses permits also play a critical role in fostering economic development and growth within the state. By obtaining business licenses, entrepreneurs and small business owners can legally establish their enterprises, create job opportunities, and contribute to the local economy. Permits for new construction or infrastructure projects also stimulate economic activity by attracting investments, enhancing property values, and improving overall quality of life for residents.

It is important to recognize that the process of obtaining licenses permits may sometimes seem burdensome or time-consuming, especially for individuals who are unfamiliar with the regulatory requirements. However, the benefits of compliance with licensing and permitting regulations far outweigh the potential challenges. By adhering to established standards and regulations, individuals and organizations demonstrate their commitment to ethical business practices, environmental stewardship, and public safety, which can enhance their reputation and credibility in the long run.

In conclusion, Florida licenses permits are indispensable tools for maintaining public safety, protecting the environment, supporting economic development, and promoting overall well-being in the state. The process of obtaining licenses and permits may require diligence, patience, and attention to detail, but the benefits of compliance with regulatory requirements are invaluable. By upholding licensing and permitting regulations, individuals and organizations can contribute to building a safe, sustainable, and prosperous future for all who call Florida home.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the business licenses required in Florida largely depend on the nature of your enterprise. While some state-specific requirements may exist, the type of business ultimately determines the necessary licenses. Some businesses might not need any licenses or permits to operate. To ensure compliance, it is strongly advised to consult with local authorities about any required licenses and permits for conducting business in your specific city or county within Florida.

Leave a Comment