New Hampshire Business License
You can obtain a New Hampshire 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.
New Hampshire 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 NH
You can get a business license 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 New Hampshire Business Licensing
New Hampshire does not have a statewide general business license. Additionally, since there is no state sales tax, there is no New Hampshire seller’s permit.
However, businesses in certain professions are required to have specific licenses or permits. The New Hampshire Office of Professional Licensure and Certification provides a list of these professions.
There are also separate tax licenses and permits regulated by the Department of Revenue Administration.
Local New Hampshire Business Licensing
In New Hampshire, you may need other licenses or permits from your local government depending on your business activity or location.
For example, the City of Manchester requires most businesses to have some type of city business license.
Check with your local New Hampshire town or county government office for more information.
Steps for Obtaining a Business License in New Hampshire
The process for obtaining or renewing a business license in New Hampshire varies depending on the type of license, though many have begun to offer online applications.
Contact the New Hampshire Office of Professional Licensure and Certification, the Department of Revenue Administration, or your local New Hampshire town or county government office for more information.
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.
NH 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.
What licenses do I need to open a business in New Hampshire?
There is no statewide New Hampshire license that all businesses need, but businesses in certain professions or locations may need specific licenses or permits.
How much does a New Hampshire business license cost?
The cost of various professional or local business licenses varies.
How do I get a New Hampshire business license?
The process for obtaining a business license in New Hampshire varies depending on the type of license. Check with the relevant state or local government office for more information.
Do I have to renew my New Hampshire business license?
Renewal requirements vary depending on the license. Check with the relevant state or local government office for more information.