Montana Business License
You can obtain a Montana 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.
Montana 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 MT
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 Montana Business Licensing
Montana does not have a standard state business license and, because there is no state sales tax, businesses are not required to have a seller’s permit.
However, there are hundreds of state licenses that businesses in certain professions must have. Businesses can register for several of the most common state licenses through the Montana eStop website. For information about other licenses, you can use the Montana License Lookup tool.
Local Montana Business Licensing
In Montana, you may need other licenses or permits from your local government depending on your business activity or location.
For example, the City of Missoula requires every business to have a license. There is a general city business license as well as several other licenses for specific professions.
Contact your local town or county government office for more information.
Steps for Obtaining a Business License in Montana
You can apply for and renew the following licenses through the state’s eStop website:
- Retail food establishment
- Tobacco retail and wholesale
- Off-Premises beer and wine
- Nursery
- Petroleum dealer
- Weighing device
- Underground storage tank
- Montana Lottery
For information about applying for or renewing other licenses, contact the relevant state, town, or county government office.
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.
MT 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 Montana business license?
Only businesses in certain professions or locations need a Montana business license. Contact the relevant state, town, or county government office for more information.
What licenses do I need to open a business in Montana?
The licenses you need depend on your profession and where the business is located. Contact the relevant state, town, or county government office for more information.it.
How much does a Montana business license cost?
The cost of a Montana business license varies depending on the type of license.
How do I get a Montana business license?
You can apply for certain licenses through the state’s eStop website. The process for obtaining other licenses varies.
Do I have to renew my Montana business license?
The renewal requirement varies depending on the license.