Colorado Business License
You can obtain a Colorado 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.
Or simply use a reliable professional service:
Incfile ($99)
How to Get a Business License in CO
You can get a business license online or by mail 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 Colorado Business Licensing
The main state-level permit or license in Colorado is the sales tax license, sometimes called a seller’s permit.
You must obtain a sales tax license if you:
- Are engaged in business in Colorado
- Intend to sell or lease tangible personal property that would ordinarily be subject to sales tax.
If your business is not located in Colorado but does more than $100,000 of annual sales in the state, it must register for a sales tax license as an out-of-state retailer.
Visit the Colorado Department of Revenue to obtain a sales tax license.
In addition to the sales tax license, some professions are required to obtain specific licenses. Check the Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies website for more information.
Local Colorado Business Licensing
In Colorado, you may need other licenses or permits from your local government depending on your business activity or location.
For example, a hotel in the City of Denver must obtain a local-level lodging facility license in order to do business.
Contact your local Colorado county or city office for more information.
Steps for Obtaining a Business License in Colorado
Sales Tax License
If your company has one business location in the state, you can apply for a Colorado sales tax license online, by mail, or in person. If you have more than one location, you must apply by mail or in person.
OPTION 1: Apply Online With MyBizColorado
- OR -
OPTION 2: Apply by Mail or in Person
Fee: $50 deposit (refunded once the business has paid $50 in taxes)
Mailing Address:
Colorado Department of Revenue
Registration Center Section
P.O. Box 17087
Denver, CO 80217-0087
Office Addresses:
Lakewood Service Center
1881 Pierce St.
Lakewood, CO 80214
Colorado Springs Service Center
2447 N. Union Blvd
Colorado Springs, CO 80909
Pueblo Service Center
827 W. 4th St.
Pueblo, CO 81003
Grand Junction Service Center
222 S. 5th St., Room 208
Grand Junction, CO 81501
Fort Collins Service Center
3030 S. College Ave.
Fort Collins, CO 80525
Other Colorado Business Licenses
The processes for obtaining licenses required for particular professions vary. Check the Department of Regulatory Agencies website and consult your local government office for more information.
Renewal
Colorado state sales tax licenses are valid for two years, expiring at the end of every odd year. Each physical location must have its own license and pay a $16 renewal fee.
You can renew the state sales tax license online with the Department of Revenue or by submitting a hard copy of the form.
For all other licenses your business may have, check with the appropriate government agency to see if they 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.
CO Business License FAQ
Who needs a business license in Colorado?
Any business in Colorado that sells taxable goods or services needs a Colorado sales tax license.
There are additional licensing requirements for businesses in certain professions or locations throughout the State of Colorado.
What licenses do I need to open a business in Colorado?
Most businesses in Colorado need a sales tax license, or seller’s permit. Businesses in some professions or locations will need 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. In Colorado, it is called a sales tax license.
How much does a business license cost in Colorado?
There is a $50 deposit for the retail sales tax license, which will be refunded once the business has paid $50 in taxes. The cost for other licenses varies.
How do I get a Colorado business license?
If your company has one business location in the state, you can apply for a Colorado sales tax license online, by mail, or in person. If you have more than one location, you must apply by mail or in person. Processes for obtaining other licenses vary.
Do I have to renew my business license?
Colorado state sales tax licenses are valid for two years, expiring at the end of every odd year. Each physical location must have its own license and pay a $16 renewal fee. Renewal requirements for other licenses vary.