North Dakota Business License
You can obtain a North Dakota 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.
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How to Get a Business License in ND
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 North Dakota Business Licensing
The main state-level permit or license in North Dakota is the sales tax permit, also known as a seller’s permit.
You must obtain a sales tax permit if you:
- Are engaged in business in North Dakota
- Intend to sell or lease tangible personal property that would ordinarily be subject to sales tax if sold at retail.
Visit the Department of Tax and Fee Administration to obtain a sales tax permit.
Additionally, businesses in certain professions or industries need specific licenses or permits. North Dakota State University provides a list of the different state licenses as well as contact information for the relevant government offices.
Local North Dakota Business Licensing
In North Dakota you may need other licenses or permits from your local government depending on your business activity or location.
For example, the City of Bismarck requires food service businesses and pawnbrokers, among others, to have specific city licenses.
Check with your local North Dakota town or county government office for more information.
Steps for Obtaining a Business License in North Dakota
North Dakota Sales Tax Permit
You can register for a North Dakota sales tax permit online. You will need to create an account to log in to the website.
Apply for a North Dakota Sales Tax Permit
Apply Online With the North Dakota Taxpayer Access Point
Apply OnlineFee: None
Other North Dakota Business Licenses
The processes for obtaining other North Dakota business licenses vary. Check with the relevant state, town, or county government office for more information.
Renewal
You do not need to renew your North Dakota sales tax permit. Check with the relevant state, town, or county government office for renewal requirements for 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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ND Business License FAQ
Who needs a North Dakota business license?
Any business that sells tangible property subject to the state sales tax needs a sales tax permit. Businesses in certain professions or locations may need other specific licenses.
What licenses do I need to open a business in North Dakota?
Many businesses will at least need a sales tax permit. Businesses in certain professions or locations may need other specific 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 North Dakota, this is called a sales tax permit.
How much does a North Dakota business license cost?
There is no registration fee for a North Dakota sales tax permit. The cost of other licenses varies.
How do I get a North Dakota business license?
You can register for a North Dakota sales tax permit online through the North Dakota Taxpayer Access Point website. The processes for obtaining other licenses vary.
Do I have to renew my North Dakota business license?
You do not need to renew your North Dakota sales tax permit. Check with the relevant state, town, or county government office for renewal requirements for other licenses your business may have.