Alaska Business License
You can obtain an Alaska business license online or by mail.
We provide the information and resources you'll need to get federal, state, and local licenses and permits for your small business, including the seller’s permit.
Recommended: Visit our How to Start a Business guide for more help with planning, starting, and maintaining your business.
Alaska Business License:
Hire a Professional Service
For a small fee, you can hire someone else to research and file for licenses that your business might need.
How to Get a Business License in AK
You can get a business license online by applying with the correct licensing or regulatory agency for your business.
Business licensing requirements generally depend on your business’s activity and location (zoning requirements).
There are three main licensing jurisdictions:
- State
- Local
- Federal
State of Alaska Business Licensing
You must obtain an Alaska business license to engage in business in Alaska.
Visit the Department of Commerce website to obtain a business license.
Certain businesses will also need to obtain a professional license with the state. Visit the Department of Commerce website to see which professions require an additional license.
Local Alaska Business Licensing
In Alaska, you may need other licenses or permits from your local government depending on your business activity or location.
You should check with your local county government office to determine if your business will need a local business license.
For example, pawn shops in the Municipality of Anchorage must get a state-level pawnbroker license as well as a local-level pawnbroker license.
Steps for Obtaining a Business License in Alaska
Alaska Business License
You can apply for an Alaska business license online or by submitting a hard copy of the application.
The Department of Commerce provides some detailed information and FAQs for this process.
OPTION 1: Apply Online With the Alaska Department of Commerce
- OR -
OPTION 2: Apply by Mail, by Fax, or in Person
Fee: $50+
Mailing Address:
State of Alaska
Business Licensing Section
P.O. Box 110806
Juneau, AK 99811-0806
Office Address:
State of Alaska
333 Willoughby Ave.
9th Floor
Juneau, AK 99801
Fax: (907) 465-2974
Other Alaska Business Licenses
There are varying procedures to apply for different state and local business licenses. Consult the Department of Commerce’s professional licensing page and your local government office for more information.
Renewal
Alaska business licenses must be renewed each year. This can be done online or by submitting a hard copy of the renewal form. The renewal fee is $50.
Federal Business Licenses and Permits
You can get a business license by applying with the correct licensing and regulatory agency for your business. Business licensing requirements depend on your business’s activity and location (zoning requirements).
If your business conducts activities that are regulated by the federal government, you will need to apply for the appropriate business license or permit.
Choose a business activity below to learn how to apply:
Agriculture
Alcoholic beverages
Aviation
Firearms, ammunition, and explosives
Fish and wildlife
Commercial fisheries
Maritime transportation
Mining and drilling
Nuclear energy
Radio and television broadcasting
Transportation and logistics
Recommended: Consider having a professional service help you research and apply for business licenses and permits.
AK Business License FAQ
What is a business license?
A business license is a permit issued to businesses by a government office that allows the business to operate in a particular area. They can be issued by federal, state, or local governments. There are typically different licensing requirements for different businesses and different locations.
What are the types of business licenses?
There are many types of business licenses. These include licenses at the local, state, and federal levels, licenses related to sales tax and other taxes, and specific licenses for various professions. There are also environmental licenses, zoning permits, and more.
Is an EIN the same as a business license?
No. An employer identification number (EIN) is issued by the IRS to identify and keep track of businesses, but it does not license them to operate.
Is an LLC considered a business license?
No. An LLC is a type of business structure. While you are required to register as an LLC, it is not a business license.
What licenses do I need to open a business in Alaska?
You must obtain an Alaska business license to engage in business in Alaska. Certain businesses will also need to obtain a professional license.
Visit the Department of Commerce website to see which professions require an additional state license and also check with your local county or city government office.
What businesses do not require a license?
Business licensing requirements vary by location and business type. Check with your state and local government offices for more information.
How much does an Alaska business license cost?
An Alaska business license costs $50 per year. Other state and local licenses may have additional fees.
How do I get an Alaska business license?
You can apply for an Alaska business license online or by submitting a hard copy of the application. The Department of Commerce provides some detailed information and FAQs for this process.
Is there a national business license?
Most businesses don’t need a federal business license, but some industries, including broadcasting, investment advising, and drug manufacturing, do have federal regulations and licenses.
Who needs a business license in Alaska?
Every business in Alaska needs a business license.
Do I have to renew my Alaska business license?
Alaska business licenses must be renewed each year.