Vermont Business License
You can obtain a Vermont business license online or by mail.
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 VT
You can get a business license online or by mail 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 Vermont Business Licensing
The only state-level permit or license in Vermont is the sales tax license, also known as a seller’s permit.
You must obtain a sales tax license if you:
- Are engaged in business in Vermont
- Intend to sell or lease tangible property that would ordinarily be subject to sales tax if sold at retail.
Visit the Secretary of State or the Department of Taxes to obtain a sales tax license.
Additionally, businesses in certain professions and industries are required to have specific licenses or permits. The Vermont Office of Professional Regulation provides additional information, and the Secretary of State website has links to other potentially relevant government offices.
Local Vermont Business Licensing
In Vermont, you may need other licenses or permits from your local government depending on your business activity or location.
For example, the City of Burlington requires certain businesses, such as restaurants, street vendors, and home-based businesses, to have specific permits.
Check with your local Vermont town or city government office for more information.
Steps for Obtaining a Business License in Vermont
Vermont Sales Tax License
You can register for a Vermont sales tax license online or by mail. If you have not yet registered your business in Vermont, you can also complete the sales tax registration at the same time as formation using the Secretary of State website.
Apply for a Vermont Sales Tax License
OPTION 1: Apply Online With MyVTax
Apply Online- OR -
OPTION 2: Apply by Mail, by Fax, or in Person
Download FormFee: None
Mailing Address:
Vermont Department of Taxes
P.O. Box 547
Montpelier, VT 05601-0547
Other Vermont Business Licenses
The processes for obtaining other Vermont business licenses and permits vary. Check with the relevant state or local government office for more information.
Renewal
The Vermont sales tax license does not need to be renewed.
Check with the relevant state or local government office for the renewal requirements for any other license or permit 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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VT Business License FAQ
Who needs a Vermont business license?
Any business that sells products or services that are subject to the Vermont state sales tax needs a sales tax license. Businesses in certain professions or locations may need other specific licenses.
What licenses do I need to open a business in Vermont?
Many businesses will at least need a Vermont sales tax license. 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 Vermont, this is called a sales tax license.
How much does a Vermont business license cost?
There is no registration fee for a Vermont sales tax license. The cost of other licenses and permits varies.
How do I get a Vermont business license?
You can register for a Vermont sales tax license online through the Secretary of State website or the MyVTax website, or you can register by mail. The processes for obtaining other licenses and permits vary.
Do I have to renew my Vermont business license?
The Vermont sales tax license does not need to be renewed. Check with the relevant state or local government office for the renewal requirements for any other license or permit your business may have.e.