How to Obtain a Business License in Texas

The Lone Star State is a great place to start a business, and the state government provides extensive resources on how to obtain a small business license in Texas. Although Texas does not require a general state-issued business license, individual cities and counties may have their own licensing requirements. It is important to check with your local city or county clerk to determine if you need a general business license or a special license for your business activities. If your company works in any of the 11 industries regulated by the federal government, you will need to obtain a federal permit, as well as state and local permits.

Additionally, some municipalities may require your company to obtain a signage permit before adding any type of outdoor advertising. To find out what specialized license you may need, you can visit the State of Texas website. The Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) provides a list of occupations, businesses, programs and industries it oversees that require business licenses and permits from the State of Texas. Most Texas businesses need at least a sales tax collection permit if they are engaged in business activities.

It is important to securely store your license and permit numbers, and to know when they need to be renewed. Business titles are the perfect stepping stone to building a career, increasing earning potential, and ultimately growing your business. If you have questions about local business and property taxes, ask your county's appraising district or tax collector. The Lone Star State is large and each city and county in Texas can have its own licensing requirements, both general and specific.

It can be difficult to determine exactly what licenses you may need to do business in your region or industry. Texas is an extremely business-friendly state and offers many resources for entrepreneurs looking to start their own businesses. If you're thinking of setting up a new company in the Lone Star State, you'll discover a business-friendly climate and extensive resources on how to obtain a small business license in Texas.