Although some states have deregulated the telecommunications market entirely, some merely require registration while others require full petitions with notarized affidavits, supporting documents, and submission of tariffs. Tariff documents outline a provider’s rates, terms and conditions for the services it offers. In addition to state requirements, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) requires registration and international authorization of some types of providers.
State telecommunications licenses require varying degrees of preparation and interactions with state officials. Applications can take anywhere from one month to one year to be processed by a state. Several states require hearings as part of the certification process. This requirement can add significant delays in processing time. It is important to note that some states require that in-state local counsel be used to file the applications and represent the applicant on a limited basis to obtain certification.
Business license considerations
State and local authorities require businesses to obtain specific licenses and permits based on their industry. In some cases, regulations mandate specialized education and unique credentials.
Operating without the appropriate license typically results in penalties, which vary according to the size of the business and the severity of the violation.