Kentucky Business License
You can obtain a Kentucky 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.
Kentucky 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 KY
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 Kentucky Business Licensing
The main state-level permit or license in Kentucky is the sales tax permit, commonly called a seller’s permit.
You must obtain a sales tax permit if you:
- Are engaged in business in Kentucky
- Intend to sell or lease tangible personal property, services, and digital property that would ordinarily be subject to sales tax if sold at retail.
Visit the Kentucky Business One Stop portal to obtain a sales tax permit.
Additionally, Kentucky requires businesses in some industries and professions to have specific licenses. The Kentucky One Stop Business portal and the Department of Professional Licensing provide information about other state business licenses and permits.
Local Kentucky Business Licensing
In Kentucky, you may need other licenses or permits from your local government depending on your business activity or location.
For example, the City of Lexington requires all businesses, with some exemptions, to obtain an Occupational License. Certain businesses may also be required to have additional licensing.
Check with your local Kentucky city or county government office for more information.
Steps for Obtaining a Business License in Kentucky
Kentucky Sales Tax Permit
You can register for a Kentucky sales tax permit online. You will need to first register for an account with the Kentucky Online Gateway.
Other Kentucky Business Licenses
The processes for obtaining other Kentucky business licenses vary. Contact the Department of Professional Licensing and your local Kentucky city or county government office for more information.
Renewal
The Kentucky sales tax permit does not need to be renewed. Check with the relevant state or local government office for renewal information about any other licenses your business has.
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.
KY 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 Kentucky business license?
Every business that sells taxable goods or services needs a Kentucky sales tax permit. Businesses in certain professions and locations may need additional licenses.
What licenses do I need to open a business in Kentucky?
Most businesses at least need a sales tax permit. Businesses in certain professions and locations may 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 Kentucky, this is commonly called a sales tax permit.
How much does a Kentucky business license cost?
There is no fee for a Kentucky sales tax permit. The cost of other licenses varies.
How do I get a business license in Kentucky?
You can register for a Kentucky sales tax permit online through the Kentucky Business One Stop Portal. The processes for obtaining other licenses vary.
Do I have to renew my Kentucky business license?
The Kentucky sales tax permit does not need to be renewed. Check with the relevant state or local government office for renewal information about any other licenses your business has.