Maryland Business License
You can obtain a Maryland 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 MD
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 Maryland Business Licensing
The main state-level permit or license in Maryland is the sales tax permit, which is sometimes called a seller’s permit.
You must obtain a sales tax permit if you:
- Are engaged in business in Maryland
- Intend to sell goods or services that are subject to state sales tax.
Visit the Comptroller of Maryland website to obtain a sales tax permit.
Additionally, businesses in certain professions are required to obtain other licenses. The Maryland OneStop Portal and the Department of Labor website provide more information.
Local Maryland Business Licensing
In Maryland, you may need other licenses or permits from your local government depending on your business activity or location.
For example, Anne Arundel County requires any business that is not a grower, maker, or manufacturer to obtain a Traders License in order to sell products.
Check with your local government office for more information.
Steps for Obtaining a Business License in Maryland
Maryland Sales Tax Permit
You can register for a Maryland sales tax permit online or by mail.
Apply for a Maryland Sales Tax Permit
OPTION 1: Apply Online With the Comptroller of Maryland
Apply Online- OR -
OPTION 2: Apply by Mail
Download FormFee: None
Mailing Address:
Central Registration
Comptroller of Maryland
Revenue Administration Division
110 Carroll St.
Annapolis, MD 21411-0001
Other Maryland Business Licenses
The processes for obtaining other business licenses you may need vary. Contact the relevant state or local government office for more information.
Renewal
Maryland sales tax permits do not need to be renewed. Check with the relevant government office for renewal requirements for any other license you 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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MD Business License FAQ
Who needs a Maryland business license?
Any business that sells taxable goods or services needs a Maryland seller’s permit. Businesses in certain professions or locations may need additional licenses.
What licenses do I need to open a business in Maryland?
Most Maryland businesses will need a seller’s permit. Businesses in certain professions or locations may need additional 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 Maryland, this is often called a sales tax permit.
How much does a Maryland business license cost?
There is no fee for a Maryland seller’s permit. The cost of other licenses varies.
How do I get a Maryland business license?
You can register for a Maryland sales tax permit online with the Maryland Comptroller’s Interactive Web Services website or by mail.
Do I have to renew my Maryland business license?
Maryland sales tax permits do not need to be renewed. Check with the relevant government office for renewal requirements for any other license you may have.