Michigan Business License
You can obtain a Michigan 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.
Michigan 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 MI
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 Michigan Business Licensing
The main state-level permit or license in Michigan is the sales tax license, also known as a seller’s permit.
You must obtain a seller's permit if you:
- Are engaged in business in Michigan
- Intend to sell or lease tangible personal property that would ordinarily be subject to sales tax if sold at retail.
Visit the Michigan Treasury Online website to obtain a sales tax license.
Additionally, businesses in certain professions are required to obtain other licenses as well. The Bureau of Professional Licensing website has more information, and Michigan also has a state business licenses search tool.
Local Michigan Business Licensing
In Michigan, you may need other licenses or permits from your state and local government depending on your business activity or location.
For example, the City of Detroit provides a list of businesses that require a city license.
Contact your local Michigan city or country government office for more information.
Steps for Obtaining a Business License in Michigan
Michigan Sales Tax License
You can register for a Michigan sales tax license online.
Other Michigan Licenses
The processes for obtaining other Michigan business licenses vary. Contact the relevant state or local government office for more information.
Renewal
Michigan sales tax licenses expire each year but are automatically renewed. Check with the relevant government office for renewal requirements for other licenses 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.
MI 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 Michigan business license?
Any business that sells taxable goods or services needs a sales tax license. Businesses in certain professions or locations may also need a separate license.
What licenses do I need to open a business in Michigan?
Most businesses will need a sales tax license. Businesses in certain professions or locations may also need a separate license.
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 Michigan, this is also called a sales tax license.
How much does a Michigan business license cost?
There is no fee for a Michigan sales tax license. The cost of other licenses varies.
How do I get a Michigan business license?
You can register for a Michigan sales tax license online through the Michigan Treasury Online website. The processes for obtaining other licenses vary.
Do I have to renew my Michigan business license?
Michigan sales tax licenses expire each year but are automatically renewed. Check with the relevant government office for renewal requirements for other licenses you may have.