How to Get Business License and Permits in Missouri

One of the critical aspects of setting up a successful business in Missouri is navigating the process of obtaining the necessary licenses and permits. These legal prerequisites ensure that your business operations comply with Missouri 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 Missouri, 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 Missouri. 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 Missouri, you must register your LLC with the secretary of state. Still, you don’t mandatorily need to obtain a business license. Missouri, popularly knowns as The Show-Me 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 Missouri. 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 Missouri

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 Missouri. 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, Missouri 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 Missouri. 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. Missouri 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 Missouri is done. Once you are done with all the steps to file your business in Missouri, you must be ready with the following documents to apply for the business licenses,

Name of your business
Type of your business (Corporation, Partnership, or LLC)
Phone & Address of your business
Your business plan that has revenue and expenses
EIN (Employment Identification Number)

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 Missouri

In Missouri, 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 Missouri

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 Missouri Secretary of State 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. Missouri 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 Missouri Secretary of State 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 Missouri

Apart from general business licenses and privilege licenses, there might be other licenses and permits that businesses must obtain in Missouri. 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 Missouri Secretary of State to find out the special licenses your business needs.

You will also find the probate offices in Missouri through the Missouri Secretary of State 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 Missouri

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 Missouri entrepreneurs from potential legal issues.

Step 5: Home-based Business Licence in Missouri

The licensing is different if your business is home-based in Missouri. 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. Missouri 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 Missouri.

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 Missouri

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

How to Maintain Your Business Licenses in Missouri

In Missouri, 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 Missouri 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

What is a business license in Missouri?

A business license in Missouri is a document that allows businesses to operate legally within the state. It is issued by the Missouri Division of Professional Registration after the business has completed all necessary paperwork and fees.

How do I get a business license in Missouri?

To get a business license in Missouri, you must first register your business with the Missouri Secretary of State’s office. You then need to apply for the required licenses and permits through the Missouri Division of Professional Registration.

What are the fees associated with a business license in Missouri?

Fees for a business license in Missouri vary depending on the type of business and the licenses and permits being applied for. Generally, businesses will need to pay a registration fee, a filing fee, and any applicable license or permit fees.

How long does it take to get a business license in Missouri?

The amount of time it takes to get a business license in Missouri will vary based on the type of business and the licenses and permits being applied for. Generally, it can take up to 4-6 weeks to get a business license in Missouri.

How often do I need to renew my business license in Missouri?

Business licenses in Missouri need to be renewed annually and the renewal process must be completed before the expiration date.

What types of permits do I need to start a business in Missouri?

The types of permits you will need to start a business in Missouri will depend on the type of business you are starting. Generally, businesses will need to obtain a business license, sales tax permit, employer tax permit, and other permits as required by local and state laws.

What is the difference between a license and a permit in Missouri?

A license is a document that grants permission to engage in a particular activity, while a permit is a document that authorizes a business to operate within a particular geographic area. In Missouri, a business license grants permission to do business within the state while a permit allows a business to operate in a specific county or city.

Do I need to register my business name in Missouri?

Yes, all businesses operating in Missouri must register their business name with the Missouri Secretary of State. The business name must be registered before applying for a business license.

Do I need to register for sales tax in Missouri?

Yes, businesses operating in Missouri must register for sales tax with the Missouri Department of Revenue. Businesses must also collect and remit sales tax as required by law.

What types of businesses need special licenses or permits in Missouri?

Businesses that need special licenses or permits in Missouri include restaurants and food service businesses, construction contractors, businesses selling alcohol, businesses selling tobacco products, businesses providing professional services, and businesses selling firearms.

How do I get a permit to sell alcohol in Missouri?

To get a permit to sell alcohol in Missouri, you must first obtain a business license from the Missouri Division of Professional Registration. You then need to apply for a liquor license with the Missouri Department of Public Safety.

What other local licenses or permits do I need to open a business in Missouri?

Businesses opening in Missouri may need to obtain local licenses or permits from the county or city in which the business is located. This may include a zoning permit, building permit, occupancy permit, or other permits as required by local laws.

Are there any special requirements for businesses operating in Missouri?

Yes, businesses operating in Missouri may need to obtain specialized licenses or permits depending on the type of business. Businesses may also need to obtain additional insurance coverage and comply with other requirements as required by state and local laws.

What is the Missouri Division of Professional Registration?

The Missouri Division of Professional Registration is an agency of the state government that is responsible for issuing business licenses and overseeing professional registration in the state.

What is the Missouri Secretary of State’s office?

The Missouri Secretary of State’s office is the state government agency responsible for registering business entities and issuing trademarks and service marks in the state.

What is the Missouri Department of Revenue?

The Missouri Department of Revenue is the state government agency responsible for collecting and administering taxes in the state.

What is the Missouri Department of Public Safety?

The Missouri Department of Public Safety is the state government agency responsible for issuing liquor licenses and administering public safety laws in the state.

Can I get my business license online in Missouri?

Yes, businesses can apply for a business license online in Missouri through the Missouri Division of Professional Registration’s website.

Are there any special requirements for opening a business in Missouri?

Yes, businesses opening in Missouri may need to obtain special licenses or permits, register with the Missouri Department of Revenue, and obtain additional insurance coverage as required by state and local laws.

How do I register my business with the Missouri Secretary of State’s office?

To register your business with the Missouri Secretary of State’s office, you must complete the appropriate forms and submit them with the required fees. The forms can be found on the Secretary of State’s website.

How do I register for sales tax in Missouri?

To register for sales tax in Missouri, you must complete the appropriate forms and submit them with the required fees to the Missouri Department of Revenue. You must also collect and remit sales tax as required by law.

How do I get a liquor license in Missouri?

To get a liquor license in Missouri, you must first obtain a business license from the Missouri Division of Professional Registration. You then need to apply for a liquor license with the Missouri Department of Public Safety.

How do I apply for a local permit or license in Missouri?

To apply for a local permit or license in Missouri, you must contact the county or city in which the business is located. Generally, businesses will need to obtain a zoning permit, building permit, occupancy permit, or other permits as required by local laws.

Is there a fee to register my business in Missouri?

Yes, there is a fee to register your business in Missouri. The amount of the fee varies depending on the type of business entity being registered.

What is the Missouri Workers’ Compensation Law?

The Missouri Workers’ Compensation Law is a law that requires employers in Missouri to provide compensation for employees injured on the job. The law also requires employers to carry workers’ compensation insurance.

Is there any financial assistance available to help me start my business in Missouri?

Yes, there are several financial assistance programs available in Missouri to help entrepreneurs start and grow their businesses. These programs include grants, loans, and tax incentives.

What types of permits do businesses in Missouri need?

The types of permits businesses in Missouri need depend on the type of business that is being operated. Common permits required include a sales tax permit, a business and occupational license, a liquor license, a food service permit, and an environmental permit.

How do I obtain a business license in Missouri?

To obtain a business license in Missouri, businesses need to first register with the Missouri Secretary of State’s office. After registering, businesses must then contact the appropriate licensing authority in their jurisdiction to apply for their specific business license.

What is the cost of a business license in Missouri?

The cost of a business license in Missouri varies, depending on the type of business and the jurisdiction in which it is located. Generally, the cost ranges from $20 to $300.

How long is a business license in Missouri valid?

A business license in Missouri is usually valid for one year, although some licenses may be valid for up to three years.

What is a sales tax permit in Missouri?

A sales tax permit in Missouri is a permit issued by the state Department of Revenue that allows businesses to collect and remit sales tax. It is required for any business selling taxable goods or services in the state.

What is the process for obtaining a sales tax permit in Missouri?

The process for obtaining a sales tax permit in Missouri includes registering with the Missouri Department of Revenue, completing the application for a sales tax permit, and submitting the application and required fees.

What is the cost of a liquor license in Missouri?

The cost of a liquor license in Missouri depends on the type of license that is being applied for, as well as the jurisdiction in which the business is located. Generally, the cost ranges from $50 to $1,000.

How long is a liquor license in Missouri valid?

A liquor license in Missouri is usually valid for one year, although some licenses may be valid for up to three years.

Why Missouri Licenses Permits is So Important

One of the most important licenses that Missourians hold is their driver’s license. This small piece of plastic is not just a form of identification, but a certification of a person’s ability to operate a vehicle safely and responsibly. Without a driver’s license, individuals would be unable to legally drive on Missouri roads, putting themselves and others at risk of accidents and injury.

In addition to driver’s licenses, Missouri residents also hold licenses and permits for a variety of other things, such as hunting, fishing, and operating certain types of machinery. These licenses ensure that individuals have the proper training and knowledge to engage in these activities safely and within the bounds of the law.

For business owners in Missouri, licenses and permits are equally important. From liquor licenses to health permits, businesses must obtain the necessary documentation in order to operate legally. These licenses not only ensure that businesses are following regulations and maintaining proper standards, but they also provide protection for consumers and employees.

Without licenses and permits, there would be chaos in Missouri. Anyone could drive a car, operate heavy machinery, or open a business without any oversight or regulation. This could lead to widespread accidents, fraud, and a general lack of safety and security for all residents of the state.

Furthermore, licenses and permits help to protect the economy of Missouri. By ensuring that businesses are operating legally and up to code, licenses and permits help to promote fairness and competition in the marketplace. Consumers can trust that the businesses they patronize have met certain standards and are providing safe and reliable products and services.

Overall, Missouri licenses and permits are a vital part of the fabric of the state. They provide both individuals and businesses with the necessary oversight and regulation to ensure safety, security, and legality in all aspects of life. Without these licenses and permits, Missouri would be a much more dangerous and chaotic place to live and work.

So the next time you renew your driver’s license or apply for a business permit, remember the importance of these documents. They are not just pieces of paper or cards; they are the foundation of a safe, secure, and thriving community in Missouri.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the business licenses required in Missouri 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 Missouri.