Pennsylvania Business Licensing Requirements

Pennsylvania Business Licensing Requirements

Getting your Pennsylvania Sales Tax License is just one step. Depending on your business, you may need additional licenses.

Pennsylvania Department of State Registration

  • LLCs — Certificate of Organization ($125)
  • Corporations — Articles of Incorporation ($125)
  • Limited Partnerships — Certificate ($125)

Register at dos.pa.gov.

Fictitious Name Registration

If operating under a different name, file with the PA Department of State. Fee is $70.

Federal EIN

Get your free EIN at irs.gov/ein.

Professional Licenses

  • Contractors
  • Cosmetologists and barbers
  • Real estate agents
  • Accountants and CPAs
  • Healthcare professionals

Verify at dos.pa.gov/ProfessionalLicensing.

Industry-Specific Licenses

  • Food Service: PA Department of Agriculture license
  • Alcohol: Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board license
  • Tobacco: PA Department of Revenue tobacco permit

Pennsylvania Business Setup Checklist

  1. Register with PA Department of State
  2. Get your EIN from the IRS
  3. File Fictitious Name if using DBA
  4. Register for PA Sales Tax License
  5. Obtain local business licenses
  6. Apply for professional/industry licenses

Related Pennsylvania Guides

Sales Tax License — Registration instructions.

DOR Contact — Get help with tax questions.

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