What types of permits and licensing are available in Louisiana?

Based on the type of business, you may need one or more of the following permits and licenses:

Local Occupational Licenses - the state and/or the city issues this license

State Occupational Licenses - many occupations and professions in Louisiana often require this license

Local Food Permits - this license is usually obtained through the local Health Office for any business dealing with food

State Beverage or Tobacco Permit - this license is required for any business associated with selling beer, soft drinks, liquor, or tobacco

Certificate of Occupancy - this license is issued by either the government and/or local city that determines whether or not your business meets zoning requirements/regulations.

CLICK THE LINK TO YOUR CITY BELOW TO APPLY FOR A BUSINESS LICENSE

Baton Rouge	Bossier City	Monroe
New Orleans	Shreveport

Who needs to obtain a state license for their business?

Many professionals and businesses need to obtain a license from the state of Louisiana before they can start operating. It is best to contact the Secretary of State to find out if your business needs to obtain any state licenses by visiting their website at www.sos.louisiana.gov

Where do I register my business?

If you need to form a corporation, limited liability company, limited partnership, or other business entity, the state of Louisiana requires you to register with the State. Write, fax, phone, or e-mail the Secretary of State to find out what is required of you.

Secretary of State
P.O. Box 94125
Baton Rouge, LA 70804-9125
Phone: (225) 922-2675
Fax: (225) 922-0439
Email: commercial@sos.louisiana.gov

Do I need to register my business if I am a sole proprietor?

In Louisiana, sole proprietorships are not registered with the State. Check first with the local city, as you may be required to obtain a business license in the area you are operating your business.

Do I need to register with the Department of Revenue?

If you are a new business, changing your business location, or changing to a new tax election type, you will need to visit the Department of Revenue to determine if you need to register. The Louisiana Deptartment of Revenue has a very easy and helpful website to submit your business information with their online application in order to obtain a Louisiana Tax Account Number. Visit www.revenue.louisiana.gov.

Other application options are available by downloading the application or visiting the Louisiana Department of Revenue's Regional Office. Before starting the application, the following information is needed:

Federal Tax ID Number (if a business entity)
Charter Number (if a business entity)
Social Security Numbers of partners/owners
Address of business
Name and addresses of partners/owners
Legal name of business
Louisiana tax account number (if the business exists already)

The Department of Revenue's website can also help with information regarding excise, sales and severance taxes, and tax forms that are available.

Are there other specialty licensing needed?

Check with your local county/city to find out what extra occupational licensing or permits necessary to operate your business.

Disclaimer: This site is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial or tax advise. The information on this site should not be relied upon as an official source of information and should be independently verified.