Arkansas Business License
You can obtain an Arkansas business license online.
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.
Arkansas 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 AR
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 Arkansas Business Licensing
The only state-level permit or license in Arkansas is the sales tax permit, sometimes called a seller’s permit. This registers your business for the Arkansas sales and use tax.
You must obtain a sales tax permit if you:
- Operate a business in Arkansas
- Intend to sell or lease tangible personal property that would ordinarily be subject to sales and use tax.
Note: If your business is located outside of Arkansas but has annual sales in Arkansas of greater than $100,000 or 200 transactions, your business must register as a remote seller.
Visit the Arkansas Taxpayer Access Point to obtain an Arkansas seller’s permit.
Additionally, some types of businesses are required to obtain additional licenses. The Arkansas Division of Workforce Services provides a list of these occupations and contact information for the relevant government agency.
Local Arkansas Business Licensing
In Arkansas, different cities and counties have different business licensing regulations and procedures.
The City of Little Rock, for example, has a general local-level license that is required for all businesses operating in the city.
Contact your local government office for more information.
Steps for Obtaining a Business License in Arkansas
Arkansas Sales Tax Permit
You can register for Arkansas sales and use tax through the Arkansas Taxpayer Access Point (ATAP) website.
Other Arkansas Business Licenses
Some occupations require additional state and local licensing. Check the Arkansas Division of Workforce Services and your local government office for more information.
Renewal
The Arkansas sales tax permit does not need to be renewed. Check with the relevant state or local government office to determine if any other licenses you have need to be renewed.
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.
AR 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 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.
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.
Who needs a business license in Arkansas?
Any business in Arkansas that sells goods or services that are subject to sales tax needs a sales tax permit.
Additionally, some types of businesses and businesses in some locations are required to obtain additional licenses.
What licenses do I need to open a business in Arkansas?
Most businesses in Arkansas need a sales tax permit. Additionally, some types of businesses and businesses in some locations are required to obtain additional licenses.
What is a seller’s permit?
A seller’s permit is the common name for a license or permit that allows you to sell products or services. It is also called a sales tax permit in Arkansas.
How much does an Arkansas business license cost?
There is a $50 registration fee for an Arkansas sales tax permit. Other state or local licenses have varying costs.
How do I get an Arkansas business license?
You can register for an Arkansas sales and use tax permit through the Arkansas Taxpayer Access Point website. Procedures for obtaining other licenses vary.