Maine Business License
You can obtain a Maine 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.
Maine 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 ME
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 Maine Business Licensing
The main state-level permit or license in Maine is the seller’s permit. This isn’t the official name, but rather a common way of referring to registration for the state’s sales and use tax or service provider tax.
You must obtain a seller's permit if you:
- Are engaged in business in Maine
- Intend to sell taxable goods or provide taxable services.
Visit the Maine Revenue Services website to obtain a seller’s permit.
Additionally, Maine requires businesses in certain professions to obtain additional licenses or permits. The state provides a list of these professions with links to more information.
Local Maine Business Licensing
In Maine, you may need other licenses or permits from your local government depending on your business activity or location.
For example, the City of Portland requires most businesses to obtain a local license.
Contact your local Maine county government office for more information.
Steps for Obtaining a Business License in Maine
Maine Seller’s Permit
You can register for a Maine seller’s permit online.
Other Maine Business Licenses
The processes for obtaining other Maine business licenses vary. Check with the relevant state or local government offices.
Renewal
You do not need to renew a Maine seller’s permit. Check with the relevant government office for renewal requirements for any other license you may have.
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.
ME 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 Maine business license?
Any business that sells taxable goods or services needs a Maine seller’s permit. Businesses in certain professions or locations may need other licenses.
What licenses do I need to open a business in Maine?
Most businesses will need a seller’s permit. Businesses in certain professions or locations may need other 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 Maine, this is a way to refer to registration for sales and use tax and service provider tax.
How much does a Maine business license cost?
There is no fee for a Maine seller’s permit. The cost of other licenses varies.
How do I get a business license in Maine?
You can register for a Maine seller’s permit online through the Maine Revenue Services website. The processes for obtaining other licenses vary.
Do I have to renew my Maine business license?
You do not need to renew a Maine seller’s permit. Check with the relevant government office for renewal requirements for any other license you may have.