New Mexico Business License
You can obtain a New Mexico business license online, by mail, or by email.
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.
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How to Get a Business License in NM
You can get a business license online, by mail, or by email by applying with the correct licensing or regulatory agency for your business. h 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 Mexico Business Licensing
The only state-level permit or license in New Mexico is the seller’s permit. This is a common name for the state’s gross receipts tax registration.
You must register for the gross receipts tax if you:
- Are engaged in business in New Mexico
- Intend to sell or lease taxable goods or services.
Visit the New Mexico Taxation and Revenue Department to register for the gross receipts tax.
Additionally, businesses in certain professions need to have specific licenses or permits. The New Mexico Regulation and Licensing Department provides information about professions that require separate licensing.
Local New Mexico Business Licensing
In New Mexico, you may need other licenses or permits from your local government depending on your business activity or location.
For example, the City of Santa Fe has a general business license as well as some specific licenses, including a license for home-based businesses.
Contact your local New Mexico city or county government office for more information.
Steps for Obtaining a Business License in New Mexico
New Mexico Gross Receipts Tax
You can register for the state’s gross receipts tax online, by mail, or by email. To register online, you will need to create an account to log into the site and then provide the requested information about your business.
Apply for the New Mexico Gross Receipts Tax
OPTION 1: Apply Online With New Mexico Taxpayer Access Point
Apply Online- OR -
OPTION 2: Apply by Mail or by Email
Download FormFee: None
Mailing Address:
NM Taxation and Revenue Department
Attn: Compliance Registration Unit
P.O. Box 8485
Albuquerque, NM 87198
Email: Business.Reg@state.nm.us
Other New Mexico Business Licenses
The process for obtaining other New Mexico business licenses varies. Check with the New Mexico Regulation and Licensing Department and your local New Mexico city or county government office for more information.
Renewal
You do not need to renew your New Mexico gross receipts tax registration. Check with the relevant government office for more information about the renewal requirements for any other licenses your business 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
Nuclear energy
Radio and television broadcasting
Transportation and logistics
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NM Business License FAQ
What licenses do I need to open a business in New Mexico?
Most businesses will at least need to register for New Mexico’s gross receipts tax. Businesses in certain professions or locations will need specific licenses as well.
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 New Mexico, this is a common way of referring to the gross receipts tax registration.
How much does a New Mexico business license cost?
There is no fee to register for a New Mexico seller’s permit. The cost of other licenses varies.
How do I get a New Mexico business license?
You can register for the state’s gross receipts tax online with the New Mexico Taxpayer Access Point website, by mail, or by email. The processes for obtaining other licenses vary.
Do I have to renew my New Mexico business license?
You do not need to renew your New Mexico seller’s permit. Check with the relevant government office for more information about the renewal requirements for any other licenses your business may have.