Frequently Asked Questions - business license

A business license is an approval or permit issued by a government agency that authorizes a business to operate within a specific jurisdiction. This license is often an additional requirement beyond the registration of a business at the state level. Whether a business is required to have a specific license depends on such factors as the nature of the business, types of products sold, and location.

A new business is like a newborn baby. It requires a significant amount of attention and investment of both your time and money to grow into a successful enterprise. To start on the right foot, every business owner needs to obtain the business licenses required by law.

Having a business license helps identify your business to potential customers as a legitimate and trustworthy entity. With a business license, you can confidently advertise yourself as a “licensed” business. Not only will this increase your confidence as a business owner, but it may potentially bring in business as your customers will feel secure in knowing you are appropriately licensed. With a business license, you can become a member of the Better Business Bureau and other occupational groups that will make customers feel more comfortable about working with you.

Proof of a business license will also be needed to grow and expand your business. For example, in most cases, you will need a business license to open a business bank account, rent business space, or open a wholesale buying account. Further, according to research by Professors Kleiner and Krueger, licensed business owners can make up to 15% more than unlicensed individuals with similar skills. Having a business license gives you a competitive edge and the advantage of greater earning potential.

Failing to maintain the necessary licenses, permits, and tax registrations before conducting business can expose you to costly penalties and put your entire business at risk. The ramifications of a blunder can seriously impede operations, destroy goodwill, and unnecessarily cost companies thousands of dollars. Regulators do not discriminate—an enforcement action may be imposed, regardless of whether the company is a mom-and-pop corner store or an established corporation. Aside from monetary penalties, cessation of operations, and potential criminal sanctions, citations also impair the morale of businesses. These penalties can apply to both wilful and ignorant violations.

Having the appropriate licenses is a mandatory aspect of operating almost any business. However, with thousands of different licensing jurisdictions across the U.S., it can be extremely challenging for a new business to understand all of the requirements and time-consuming to manage ongoing compliance. The licensing process can involve completing complex applications, gathering supporting documentation from various departments, and interacting with state and local bureaucracies. The experts at CT Corporation can handle the license research, assembly, and filing on your behalf. Our goal is to prepare everything related to the license application, except for the client’s signature so that you can concentrate on more critical day-to-day duties of your business.

Government agencies and divisions at the Federal, State, County or Municipal levels can issue business licenses.

A bond is an instrument that provides a financial guarantee of funds for monetary relief in the event a loss. Bonds are often required to obtain a license issued by a governmental authority. They function as a guarantee that the individual or entity holding the license, the licensee, will comply with an underlying law or regulation. If the licensee does not keep this promise, the licensing authority can use the bond as a penalty or to relieve any damages that may arise.

Insurance and surety companies act as the guarantor and issue bonds. The licensee makes an agreement with the guarantor to issue the bond to cover the licensee’s actions. If the licensee fails to uphold their obligation to the licensing authority, the guarantor will provide the funds in the bond to cover any resulting damages or losses. For this service, the licensee pays the guarantor a fee, usually annually, which is based on the amount of the bond and the licensee’s credit history.

Many different types of licenses require bonds including collection agency licenses, contractor licenses, appraisal management company licenses and money services licenses. Sometimes the bond amount is prescribed by statute and is the same for each applicant, and sometimes it is based on the gross annual income of the application or some other factor. The government requires bonds for licensure as a way to protect consumers and entice businesses to comply with all applicable rules and regulations.

CT Corporation will help you obtain any bonds required for licenses and registrations for your business, minimizing time-consuming and costly delays. If you are already licensed, we can manage bond renewals and ongoing license compliance.

For additional help please contact CT Corporation.

Some common ways business license fees are levied include:

• Flat Rate – A flat rate is a single dollar amount that every business in the jurisdiction must pay each period for the privilege of operating there.
• Business Type – Many areas charge different fees depending on the type of business. Certain business types may pay fees much larger than other types.
• Number of Employees – A business may be charged by the number of workers it employs. Commonly, professional employees such as doctors, nurses, and psychiatrists will warrant higher fees than clerks and other non-professional employees.
• Gross Receipts/Net Profits – Some jurisdictions charge businesses based on the Gross Sales or Net Profits they earn during the license term. The specific tax rate might be the same across the board or it may vary depending on the type of business and/or the actual dollar amount that a business brings in.
• Value of Inventory – For retail establishments, it is not uncommon to pay a business license fee based on the end-of-term dollar value of their inventory.
• Size of Establishment – Brick-and-mortar establishments like restaurants and hotels may pay fees based on the square footage of their building, the number of patrons that can be seated at a given time, or the number of beds or rooms that fill the structure.
• Number of Vehicles – For businesses that depend on transportation (taxi services, delivery companies, etc.), a fee may be levied based on the number of vehicles the business uses.

Let the experts at CT Corporation simplify the complexities of multiple business license fees.

Some states, counties, and cities will exempt certain types of organizations from paying business license fees; however, not all jurisdictions are willing to allow exemptions. Commonly exempted organizations include non-profits, banks, and church organizations.

Depending on the type of business and the laws of the area, business license fees might be owed on a biennial, annual, quarterly, monthly, or even daily basis.

You certainly are not the first person to have this concern. In fact, in July 2013 a large metropolitan zoo was shut down because the zoo made the embarrassing mistake of forgetting to file a license renewal. A notable beer company experienced a similar issue in 2011 whereby the company was instructed to remove 39 brands of beer from every restaurant, bar and liquor store in the state of Minnesota. This action resulted from a missed renewal filing of a $30, 2-year license. Missed license renewals and filings can cause a company to incur significant fines and penalties in addition to loss of business costs and brand deterioration.

Given the current economic environment, government agencies are seeking ways to maintain revenues and cracking down on business license compliance is one way in which they achieve that goal. Ensuring your business is operating in compliance with the law is extremely important and challenging considering legal requirements and renewal dates are different across industries and jurisdictions.

How does non-compliance happen?

Managing various license requirements, renewal dates and report filings for multiple locations every year is a burdensome task which often leads to frustration, missed renewals and overlooked filings.  Many organizations lack the technology to handle the complexities of license management or use unreliable spreadsheets and calendars. The experts at Wolters Kluwer have the knowledge and technology to provide you and your company with the assurance that your license portfolio is in compliance.

Business License Solutions – Gain peace of mind without the hassle

License Assessment

Wolters Kluwer offers the License Assessment Package to provide your business with the information to become fully compliant within all jurisdictions.  Once you provide your company's current license information and site listing, CT Corporation will complete the following:

1. Perform research on your company's current business licenses, registrations & permits to provide-
   • Status verification of licenses and the associated renewal dates
2. Compile current business license requirements for your company's industry and all its applicable jurisdictions
3. Compare current compliance requirements to the company's current license portfolio to identify-
   • Licenses & permits required that your company must file along with the associated forms and filing instructions
   • Licenses & permits no longer required

The License Assessment Package allows your business to “clean house” with respect to its licenses, permits and registrations. Often this process is most valuable when an organization endures a transition including the succession of an employee responsible for the company's compliance as well as during a merger or acquisition. Other times, a business may experience growth and can often lose control of the license filings & renewals. Whatever the circumstance, Wolters Kluwer has the experience to get your license portfolio in compliance and the technology to make your life simpler going forward.

Business license compliance software tool

Wolters Kluwer has developed a web-based business license compliance software tool specifically designed for managing license filings and renewals. Our Client License Information Center (CLiC^®) allows companies across various industries in all 50 states to effectively and efficiently manage their license portfolio.

Keeping track of renewal dates for various licenses is challenging and time-consuming. Wolters Kluwer eliminates the hassles of business license management with our secure, easy-to-use Client License Information Center (CLiC^®). CLiC^® allows you the ability to quickly access all license information in one central location.

CLiC^® Features:

1. View all of your existing licenses in the selected jurisdiction, including associated fees, renewal dates as well as monitor the status of each application
2. Manage renewals with automatic renewal messages
3. Import and organize documents associated with your licenses

Business license outsourcing

Business license outsourcing is an efficient and effective way to ensure your organization is in compliance. It also enables your company to focus on its core competencies, driving growth and managing operations. Wolters Kluwer is a trusted business partner and is able to absorb all of your business license management burdens. As a trusted outsourcing partner, Wolters Kluwer can provide your company with compliance assurance by completing the following:

1. Process all license, permit, and registration renewals for every jurisdiction within the U.S.
2. Perform business license research to identify license obligations associated with future business initiatives – new locations, added business lines, etc.
3. File all new licenses, permits and registrations relevant to additional legal requirements created by new business initiatives or additional legal requirements

Advantages of working with Wolters Kluwer

CT Corporation offers the best business license solutions for your company. Our solutions provide a cost-effective and efficient means to manage your business license portfolio. Working with CT Corporation gives you access to a team of knowledgeable and friendly legal professionals dedicated to meeting your corporate compliance needs. Our expertise and experience in business license management allows you the greatest advantage of all – peace of mind and the ability to focus on your business.

For a free consultation or CLiC^® demo, please contact CT Corporation

Yes, a business license can be transferred in certain circumstances, but the process varies greatly based on the nature of transfer (i.e. ownership change, location change, name change, etc.) and the jurisdiction/agency issuing the business license. Depending on the license type and jurisdiction, a new application is often required.

Wolters Kluwer is experienced in navigating the events that may allow for a license transfer, ensuring continuous license compliance in your operations.

For more information and assistance, please contact CT Corporation.

It depends on the rules of the governing body in charge of the license. In some cases, there is a window in which a renewal may be submitted late. In others, late renewals may carry a penalty fee. Some licensing boards might cancel a license immediately after its expiration date and require a reinstatement application to be submitted in order to bring the license back to active status. If you have a license that is expired, it is important to find out what your options are, given the rules of the issuing board.

For additional help please contact CT Corporation.

A deficient application will increase the time it takes to get a license issued. When an application is submitted with mistakes or omissions, it will likely be considered deficient. Common reasons for deficiency letters are the application was incomplete, incorrectly signed, or the form was not current.

The most common reason an application is deficient is because it is incomplete. Sometimes this is because questions on the application were left blank, attachments were missing, or some prerequisite requirement was not met. CT Corporation recommends that all questions are addressed on an application. Even when a question is inapplicable to the individual or entity, it is better to write “N/A” and explain why it does not apply. Make sure to read directions carefully and be familiar with the industry to identify all attachments and supplemental documents.

Another common reason an application is deficient is the signature pages are not originals, not notarized properly, not signed by the right people, or not signed at all. Often the reason for these errors is due to unclear instructions. When an original signature is required, meaning the actual pen to paper page is submitted with the application, it is usually not noted in the instructions.

Sometimes applicants follow all the steps perfectly, only to have their application deficient because they used an old form. Licensing agencies update and change forms frequently and often without notice. It is possible to start an application and by the time it is filed, the form is stale. Make sure you check with the licensing agency to ensure you have the most up-to-date application form.

Save precious time and money by outsourcing all license initial and renewal filings to CT Corporation. Our services will help your company obtain all licenses and registrations, quickly and correctly! For additional help please contact CT Corporation

Installation of water park equipment in the U.S. commonly requires a contractor’s license. Contractor’s licenses may be issued by the state, county, or city. 

Many contractor licenses require as a prerequisite that the business entity is foreign qualified in that state. You can either qualify your Canadian company in those states, or register a domestic US company in one of the states where you do business (to save on one foreign qualification), or in one of states that offer friendly incorporation environment such as Delaware or Wyoming, and then foreign qualify it in the states where you are offered jobs.

Additional licenses that your business may need include obtaining an EIN, tax registration, and local business licenses. We can help guide you through the process of 1) determining what business licenses are required for each project and 2) preparing and filing application(s) so that your business receives licenses quickly. Please contact CT Corporation to consult a licensing specialist.

In 1970, the federal Controlled Substances Act (CSA) was created to regulate substances that have the potential to be abused. At the time, the CSA lacked instructions for the maintenance and use of these substances by emergency medical services (EMS). Thus, States created their own EMS-related controlled substances requirements. In 2017, the Protecting Patient Access to Emergency Medications Act (PPAEMA) was introduced in US Congress to amend the CSA to include EMS requirements.

According to the law, an EMS organization must submit an application to the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) for registration and for demonstration that the applicant organization can provide the needed services in the specific state. The application is reviewed by the DEA and can be either accepted or denied. With an approved application from the DEA, the EMS organization can store, deliver, and receive controlled medications. These controlled medications can then be given to the patient when they are en-route to the hospital. Furthermore, instead of applying for a new registration through the DEA for each separate EMS facility, an EMS agency may obtain a single registration in each state instead of a separate registration for each location.

An EMS agency must adhere to 3 regulations to stay compliant with federal law: First, the storage of these controlled substances must be at a registered agency or in a designated vehicle from the agency. Second, during delivery, an agency with a DEA registration must deliver the controlled substances to EMS. Finally, record keeping for these controlled substances can be done either electronically or on paper, but the approach must be specified and the records kept in a designated area. 

Our License Management System (LMS) will notify your CT Corporation account manager and the contact that you designate within your entity of all upcoming renewals well in advance. We will also file for the renewal of the license and ensure that all supporting documents are updated and included with the renewal application. If you prefer to handle your own renewals, sign up for our Renewal Confirmation service to have our expert staff follow up with lethargic licensing divisions to make sure your licenses are renewed quickly and correctly.

The method to close a business license depends on the governing board in charge of the license. In the case of many smaller, basic business licenses, a written notification in the form of an email or letter may be all that is required to close your license. More regulated license types might require submission of a specific form in order to request license closure. Depending on the nature of your license or registration, you may also need to obtain proof of tax clearance – i.e. evidence that you have no past due fees on your license account – before your license can be closed.

For additional help please contact CT Corporation

Businesses are often reliant upon their own internal compliance division to stay on top of renewals. While the licensing jurisdiction may send a renewal notice, entities should not rely on this reminder method. CT Corporation has developed a License Management System (LMS) to help manage the renewal process and avoid delinquent charges and fines.

The term of a business license is entirely dependent on the type of license. Some licenses are good for the life of the business while others must be renewed annually or every two years. However, laws can change frequently so businesses must stay abreast of changes that affect the term of their license.

The length of time to obtain the proper license is partially dependent on the licensing jurisdiction. Wolters Kluwer streamlines the process for businesses so that your application is filed faster and is properly completed. Many licensing jurisdictions will completely reject an application with any errors or missing supporting documents.

Business license costs vary from state to state, county to county, and city to city. Different municipalities use different methods to determine how much you will have to pay for your business license (sometimes called Business Registration, Business Tax Certificate, Occupational License, Privilege License, et. al.). Typically, you will be charged a one-time application fee and a periodical renewal fee in order to maintain a legal business in a given jurisdiction. It is not uncommon to owe business license fees to the city, county, and state in which your business is located.

Depending on the jurisdiction, you may need a local business license. Local business licenses are required for businesses "operating" or "transacting business" within a given jurisdiction. They are generally renewable and require an application with a fee. There are two considerations that a locality may look at in order to determine whether a business is required to obtain a license:

• Does the business generate any form of revenue from the jurisdiction and/or through this address? This includes using it in advertisements and portraying it as a business location to entice business.

• Does the business have a presence in the jurisdiction? If you do not have employees in this location or within the city performing work for compensation, you may not need this license. However, if you receive mail to this address relating to the business that an employee must come into the jurisdiction to collect that could be be enough to establish that the business has a presence.

CT Corporation will help your business determine the licenses that are needed and obtain all of the licenses and registrations required, minimizing time-consuming and costly delays. To get a free quote, please contact CT Corporation

Some jurisdictions will prorate license fees depending on the date of application; however, some will not. It depends on the policy of the specific jurisdiction.

Resale certificates are used by vendors to purchase property or services that are intended for resale. The buyer presents the seller with the resale certificate. When a buyer has a valid resale certificate, no tax is charged for the purpose because it will ultimately be charged to the end user. Vendors may use resale certificates for single purchases or as a blanket certificate that, when given to the seller, covers additional purchases of the same general type of property or services. Generally, to obtain a resale certificate, a business must first have a valid sales tax account. Sometimes a business may use that account number of a form resale certificate issued by that state. All they need to do is print the certificate, write in their account number and business information, and present the certificate to the seller.

In other states, the business must take another step and apply for a resale certificate. If the state approves the application and the business activity, a resale certificate and number is issued by the state. These certificates are generally issued for one or two year periods.

CT Corporation will help resellers obtain all licenses and registrations for your business, minimizing time-consuming and costly delays. For additional help please contact CT Corporation to consult a licensing specialist.

Yes, there usually are penalties for failure to pay a business license fee. Penalties can include fines, accruing interest to the license fee, and in some cases, license suspension or revocation. CT Corporation's ongoing compliance tool CLiC will ensure that your business files every renewal and pays every license fee on time. For additional help please contact CT Corporation.

CT Corporation offers a service for businesses to verify the status of your entire portfolio of licenses. Clients receive a comprehensive report detailing the license, licensing jurisdiction, and any renewal date.

Please contact the business license experts at CT Corporation to learn more about our License Research package.

Many states offer reciprocal privileges for contractor’s licenses issued by another state. Generally reciprocity is only available for equivalent licenses with the same classifications. It is a common misconception that a reciprocity agreement between states allows contractors to avoid licensing requirements in that state. Contractors must still go through the process of obtaining a license in each state that they plan to operate.

Reciprocal agreements typically waive the trade portion of the examination required for a state contractor license. To meet the reciprocity requirements a contractor must be licensed, having passed the equivalent trade exam, and be in good standing in the reciprocal state. A license application must still be submitted and the business law exam must still be passed by the applicant in each state they want to work as a contractor.

Sometimes a contractor must have held a license for a specific period of time before they can take advantage of reciprocal agreements. For example, Arizona requires that the applicant is actively licensed and in good standing for five (5) consecutive years in the reciprocal state before they can apply by reciprocity. In Nevada, the applicant is required to be actively licensed and in good standing in the reciprocal state for five (5) of the last seven (7) years. In Arkansas, the applicant may also have to get a form signed by the state they are currently licensed in verifying that they meet the requirements of reciprocity.

CT Corporation will help guide contractors through the entire licensing process, whether they are seeking a license through reciprocity or managing ongoing renewals. We can help you obtain all of the licenses and registrations you need, minimizing time-consuming and costly delays. For additional help please contact CT Corporation to consult a licensing specialist.

Becoming a licensed contractor can be an overwhelming experience. There are usually a slew of state, county, and city licenses and registrations necessary in order to operate as a compliant contractor. Contractors are often required to take and pass exams, submit fingerprints, pass background checks, demonstrate adequate insurance coverage, and post a bond. CT Corporation can streamline all these requirements and obtain all licenses on your behalf.

Most states will require contractors to register with a State Board, pass examinations, and then obtain local business licenses and permits. Some states that license contractors this way are Florida, California, and Nevada. Other states do not license contractors on the state level. For instance, New York contractors must be licensed at the county and/or city level of government. Often contractor licenses are different based on whether the contractor preforms residential or commercial work. Many contractor licenses have additional exam or experience requirements for specialties such as carpentry, framing, painting, concrete, irrigation, etc.

Other requirements include forming or foreign qualifying your business entity, registering for state and local taxes, and obtaining basic business licenses. Contractors that plans on having employees will need to register for payroll taxes at the state level. Some states and localities require contractors to obtain basic business licenses, even if they are only entering the jurisdiction to work on one job.

Many states offer reciprocal privileges for contractor’s licenses issued by another state. Generally reciprocity is only available for equivalent licenses with the same classifications. It is a common misconception that a reciprocity agreement between states allows contractors to avoid licensing requirements in that state. Contractors must still go through the process of obtaining a license in each state that they plan to operate.

Reciprocal agreements typically waive the trade portion of the examination required for a state contractor license. To meet the reciprocity requirements a contractor must be licensed, having passed the equivalent trade exam, and be in good standing in the reciprocal state. A license application must still be submitted and the business law exam must still be passed by the applicant in each state they want to work as a contractor.

Sometimes a contractor must have held a license for a specific period of time before they can take advantage of reciprocal agreements. For example, Arizona requires that the applicant is actively licensed and in good standing for five (5) consecutive years in the reciprocal state before they can apply by reciprocity. In Nevada, the applicant is required to be actively licensed and in good standing in the reciprocal state for five (5) of the last seven (7) years. In Arkansas, the applicant may also have to get a form signed by the state they are currently licensed in verifying that they meet the requirements of reciprocity.

CT Corporation will help guide contractors through the entire licensing process, whether they are seeking a license through reciprocity or managing ongoing renewals. We can help you obtain all of the licenses and registrations you need, minimizing time-consuming and costly delays. For additional help please contact CT Corporation to consult a licensing specialist.

In many states what constitutes a contractor is broadly defined to include any person who undertakes to construct, alter, repair, improve, or demolish any building, road, or other improvement. In many states you will be required to take an examination to be a licensed general contractor. Construction licenses are required because licensing laws protect the public from incompetence and dishonesty in those who provide construction services. The requirements also provide minimal assurance that all persons offering such services have the required skill and character, understand local laws and codes, and know the basics of a contracting business. Because of the strength of this public policy, the laws apply regardless of injustice to the unlicensed contractor. The remedial purpose of the law is designed to protect the public regardless of the equities involved. The licensing statutes represent a legislative determination that the importance of deterring unlicensed contracting outweighs any harsh results. Thus, even a small lapse in licensure during construction may prevent recovery of all compensation due the contractor, not just a portion of it. For additional help please contact CT Corporation to consult a licensing specialist.

Most general contractor licenses, which are typically issued by a state's Contractor’s Board, must be applied for by mail. Application fees range from $0 - $900.00. In 33 states, a general contractor requires licensing at the state level, and in 18 states, a general contractor may require licensing at the local level.

The construction industry is one of the most heavily regulated in the United States, and each state has unique contractor licensing laws, specialty classifications, and application requirements.

CT Corporation has extensive experience regarding specific jurisdictional requirements. Our experts can streamline the process of identifying and obtaining the proper contractor license for your business. We provide comprehensive research on each application's requirements and prepare error-free application materials, minimizing time-consuming and costly delays. Please contact CT Corporation to consult a licensing specialist.

The construction industry is one of the most heavily regulated in the United States, and this is no less the case for contractors working in specialized fields. Each state has unique contractor licensing laws, specialty classifications, and specialty contractor application requirements.

The threshold question that must be addressed is whether the roofing contractor intends to do residential and commercial work. For example, the Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry requires that residential roofers be licensed with the state by filing a Residential Roofer New License Application. On the other hand, Minnesota does not license commercial roofing contractors at the state level; they must be licensed at local level.

Currently, 32 states require licensure for residential and/or commercial roofing contractors at the state level. The remaining 18 require licensure at either the state, county and/or municipal level. A state could hypothetically require licensure at two levels, or all three. For example, the Idaho Bureau of Professional Licensing requires roofing contractors to file an Application for a Business Entity Contractor Registration. Additionally, the city of Idaho Falls requires roofing contractors to file an Application for Building Contractor License. Similarly, roofing contractors must file a Building Department License Application with the city of Pocatello.

Other requirements to become a roofing contractor may include, but are not limited to: (1) proof of worker’s compensation insurance, (2) proof of unemployment insurance, (3) proof of liability and property damage insurance, (4) proof of passage of residential, commercial and/or industrial examinations, (5) submission of a surety bond, (6) the designation of a qualifying party and/or construction supervisor license and (7) copy of Articles of Incorporation or Partnership Agreement.

CT Corporation will navigate the maze of state, county and municipal licensure requirements for roofing contractors, as well as manage all ongoing license renewals to ensure continuity in compliance. For additional help please contact CT Corporation to consult a licensing specialist.

A specialty contractor can perform contracts relating to the specialty in which they are licensed. In some cases, specialty contractors obtain licensure by submitting the appropriate classification on a general contractor application. In other cases, states may have a separate application that is unique to that specialty.

The most common specialties with respect to licensing are electrical, HVAC, plumbing, home improvement, roofing and solar . These licensing categories may exist at the local level, depending on the state(s) in question.

The construction industry is one of the most heavily regulated in the U.S., and each state has unique contractor licensing laws, specialty classifications, and application requirements. CT Corporation has extensive experience regarding specific jurisdictional requirements.

CT Corporation can streamline the process of identifying and obtaining the proper contractor license for your business. We provide comprehensive business license research on each application's requirements and prepare error-free application materials, minimizing time-consuming and costly delays. Please contact CT Corporation to consult a licensing specialist.

Properly licensing your engineering firm to do business in multiple states is time consuming for companies to handle in-house.

The first step to getting licensed when expanding into a new state is to hold the proper licensing in the home state of the engineering firm. This includes:

• Business entity formation
• Professional Engineering licenses for individual engineers employed by the firm. These licenses may require education, experience, and testing.
• Professional Engineering firm license

Once the firm holds the proper licenses in the home state, they may be eligible to obtain a certificate of authorization for professional engineering firm from other states through reciprocity or comity, as it is often referred. Common requirements include:

• Foreign Qualification/Registered Agent
• Home State License Verification
• Description of business activities
• Corporate Documents

One issue that firms face is ownership licensure requirements. Most states either do not have ownership requirements or require one owner of the firm be authorized to practice in that state. However, New York and Michigan are different in this way. In Michigan, for an out of state to practice in Michigan, two-thirds of the firm’s principals need to be licensed as professional engineers in Michigan.

New York requires that greater then 75% of domestic firms and 100% of foreign firm’s shareholders, officers, and directors be licensed as professional engineers. Although only those engineers who will be actually providing professional services must be licensed in New York State, the rest must be licensed in some other jurisdiction. This is problematic for many firms that have mixed ownership. For such firms to practice in New York, they may need to set up a new, separate corporation, meeting New York State’s ownership requirements.

Another issue that firms face is the unique name requirements which may limit the names under which a firm may provide services. Applications may be denied if your firm name conflicts with the specific requirements of a state. Engineering firms may need to alter their “doing business as” name in the state to prevent denial.

Finally, professional engineering firms may also be subject to local business licenses, payroll taxes and sales taxes.

CT Corporation understands the requirements in each state and will save your company dozens of hours of research and application preparation. Learn more about our License Research and License Filing services. We streamline the licensing process to get you licensed fast and keep you in compliance. CT Corporation will navigate the license requirements for professional engineering firms by helping you obtain all the licenses and registrations you need and manage your ongoing license renewals. For a free consultation, please contact CT Corporation to consult a licensing specialist.

Some states have a general service warranty license, others have a home warranty license, and yet others have a vehicle warranty license. In some states, one license covers all three types of warranties, while in others each type of warranty service requires its own license.

States regulate warranty providers for the protection of consumers. The main goal of the state is to ensure consumers are not being taken advantage of by businesses. By requiring licensure, the state is able to effectively monitor the company’s transactions. When a consumer has an issue, the state offers protection that would otherwise be unavailable if the industry were not regulated.

A service warranty is a contract or agreement whereby a service contract provider undertakes, for a specified period of time, to repair, replace, maintain, or indemnify such services. These licenses are normally governed by the state department of insurance. Most applications require documentation of a company’s reimbursement insurance policy, financial statements, and proof of business entity formation and/or foreign qualification. The license often must be renewed annually or biennially, depending on the state. In most states, it is illegal to provide service warranties without obtaining a license at least 30 days in advance from the start of business. Please contact us regarding specific state requirements.

Home warranties are a common type of warranty subject to licensure. Like general service warranties, a home warranty provider agrees to undertake, for a specified period of time, to repair, replace, maintain, or indemnify specific services related to home care. Massachusetts has a separate license for a home contract provider that is governed by the Division of Insurance. The license fee is $600 and must be renewed annually. In addition to the application, a home warranty provider must often provide proof of a funded reserve account, a security deposit, and financial documents showing net worth.

Vehicle service contracts are agreements for a specific duration to repair, place, maintain a vehicle where there is operational or structural failure due to a defect in materials, workmanship, or due to normal wear and tear. Applications for vehicle service warranty provider licenses often require corporate documents, reimbursement insurance policies, and financial statements. These licenses are usually renewed annually.

Alabama requires a Vehicle Protection Product Warrantor Registration License for companies providing vehicle warranties. The license is regulated through the Alabama Department of Insurance and has a $250 fee. In addition to the initial application, corporate documents, a certificate of good standing, financial security documents (reimbursement insurance policies or $50 million net worth), copies of existing contracts, examination agreements, and biographical affidavits are all required.

Arizona is one of the few states that combine a service warranty, home warranty, and vehicle warranty provider services all into one license. The Department of Insurance regulates the Service Company Permit application, which requires a $300 fee. Attachments include a certificate of good standing, biographical affidavit for each owner and officer, proof of $100,000 net worth or surety bond for $100,000. Copies of all service contracts must also be submitted with the application. There is an annual renewal requirement.

CT Corporation will help warranty service providers obtain all of the licenses and registrations required, minimizing time-consuming and costly delays. If you are already licensed, we can file renewals and manage ongoing compliance. For additional help please contact CT Corporation to consult a licensing specialist.

In order to obtain a Reinsurance Brokerage (or Reinsurance Intermediary Broker) license an applicant must generally: (1) Complete an NAIC Uniform Individual Application to be registered with the National Insurance Producer Registry; and (2) Pay both the state license application and state license fee. For non-resident applicants, a certification from their home state is often required as well. However, different states have requirements that vary depending upon their respective jurisdiction.

Some states have simplistic requirements. In Massachusetts an applicant must: (1) Complete an application form; and (2) Write a check made payable to the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Division of Insurance. For non-resident applicants, a Certificate of Good Standing from your home state indicating you are licensed in good standing as a reinsurance broker is required as well. In Florida, an applicant must: (1) Complete an application for the license and submit appropriate fees. In addition, the applicant must be fingerprinted. Each person applying for the first time in Florida and qualifying for a license as a reinsurance broker shall attach a full detailed credit and character report for the 5-year period immediately prior to the date of application.

Some states have stringent requirements. In Georgia, applicants need to file a Certification Application for Certified Reinsurer. The applicant must be domiciled and licensed to transact insurance or reinsurance in what is called a "Qualified Jurisdiction." A qualified jurisdiction is a jurisdiction that is 1) an accredited jurisdiction in accordance with the NAIC financial and standards accreditation program; 2) qualified by the Commissioner as a qualified jurisdiction in accordance with the standards set forth in Ga. Reg. § 120-2-78-.08(3)(b); or 3) is a jurisdiction that is designated as a qualified jurisdiction by the Reinsurance Task Force, or working group thereof, and published through the NAIC Committee Process. There is a litany of additional requirements for licensure as well.

We will help you obtain all the licenses your reinsurance company needs. Our license experts will compile all applications for you and provide detailed instructions on how to apply and the fees associated with each application. LicenseLogix can complete all applications for you and streamline the process. For additional help please contact CT Corporation to consult a licensing specialist. 

Depending on the jurisdiction, a licensed warranty service provider may need a CLIP (contractual liability insurance policy), often referred to by the states as a reimbursement insurance policy.

For example, Connecticut does not allow extended warranties to be issued, sold or offered for sale unless the extended warranty provider is insured under an extended warranty reimbursement insurance policy issued by an insurer authorized to do business in the State of Connecticut.

Having such a policy is not always a requirement, but instead may be one option among various alternatives to show financial responsibility. For example, in Alabama a warranty service provider must meet a “financial security” requirement, meaning they must either have a reimbursement insurance policy, a net worth of $100 million, a surplus lines insurance policy, a funded reserve account or provide a financial security deposit. Similarly, Arkansas has a financial requirement that can be satisfied by either a reimbursement insurance policy, a funded reserve account or provide a financial security deposit.

Other states that regulate warranty providers, such as Arizona, do not require a CLIP or reimbursement policy and instead allow for a bond or cash to satisfy their financial security requirement.

Let CT Corporation research all the details related to your licenses. Whether you need a new license or need to maintain currently held licenses, we can handle everything. Please contact CT Corporation to consult a licensing specialist.

In response to emerging digital currencies such as Bitcoin, states have started to consider changes in state statutory language impacting cryptocurrency or digital currency transmission and its placement within “stored value” or “money transmission” statutory definitions.  Many states are moving towards the inclusion of this form of currency within money transmission license requirements.   CT Corporation tracks licensing changes within the money services industry.  We assist our money transmitter clients with license compliance by providing customized research to identify whether their transactional activities fall under the parameters of state level money transmission licensing regimes.

Please contact CT Corporation to see how we can assist with your money services business licensing needs. 

Currently, the following states require a nonresident pharmacy PIC to be licensed in their state: Alabama, Arkansas, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Michigan, Mississippi, Nebraska, Oklahoma, Oregon, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia and West Virginia. Certain states including Iowa and Idaho do not require full state licensure but still require nonresident PICs to register with the Board.

You can get a quote by contacting CT Corporation

If your pharmacy exports drugs and biologics to foreign countries, you may be required to obtain an exporters license or certificate issued by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the Department of Commerce Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS), and/or the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA).

Pursuant to FDA regulation, pharmacies are not required to obtain export certificates. However, many foreign governments do require verification of FDA approval from pharmaceutical exporters as an assurance that products being brought and sold in their countries are suitable to be marketed within the U.S. Thus, it is important that pharmaceutical exporters consult with the importing country to determine exactly what type of information is required. If the host country does require such verification, the FDA is legally mandated, upon official request, to issue an export certificate containing vital information about a product’s regulatory or marketing status within the United States.

To apply, pharmacy administrators must consult and complete form FDA 3613b. Exporters must keep in mind that each drug requires a separate application. However, if one drug is being exported to multiple countries, only one application must be used, with separate certificates to be issued for each distinct importing country. Fees include $175 per each certificate, with a reduced fee for each subsequent certificate for the same country in the same application. Certificates will expire 24 months from the date of notification, and thereupon require submission of a new application upon expiration.

According to the Department of Commerce Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS), only those pharmaceutical products classified with an ECCN require an export license. These products include but are not limited to: vaccines, immune-toxins, medical products, diagnostic and food testing kits as specifically listed in the Commerce Control List. To apply, pharmacies should consult form BIS-748P which may also be used to request classification of items/materials to be exported, or to request an advisory opinion as to whether a license is required for a particular item/ material for a given end-user and/ or destination. An export license issued by the BIS is valid for four years from the date issued.

Furthermore, under the DEA, a yearly exporter registration is required for all controlled substances. Pharmacies intending to export controlled substances must consult DEA Form 225 which, upon submission, involves a 4-6 week processing time and requires annual renewal and fees that range in excess of $1500.

CT Corporation will research complex license requirements, file and manage all pharmacy licenses. To get a free quote today, please contact CT Corporation to consult a licensing specialist.

Currently, all states except Massachusetts require out-of-state or mail-order pharmacies that ship drugs to their residents to obtain some form of Nonresident Pharmacy License in their state. Nonresident pharmacy licensing is typically similar to in-state pharmacy licensing, with perhaps a few additional requirements such as the designation of an in-state representative to act as an agent for service of process and other local matters.

Nonresident pharmacy rules differ from state to state; some states require acting pharmacists-in-charge to be licensed through their Board of Pharmacy, while others do not; certain states require nonresident pharmacies to file periodic reports of controlled substances dispensed to their residents. Regulations are always changing - Pennsylvania only recently enacted legislation establishing a nonresident pharmacy license requirement - so it is important to stay abreast of developing legislation in order to remain compliant in the industry.

CT Corporation helps clients stay on top of new requirements and changing regulations. Please contact CT Corporation to consult a licensing specialist.

It is only legal for entities that are registered with the Drug Enforcement Administration to send drugs through the U.S. Postal Service. For example, a drug manufacturer, a registered agent of a drug manufacturer, pharmacy, medical practitioner, mail-order pharmacy, or another authorized dispenser.

Every state in the country requires mail-order pharmacies or web-based pharmacies to be properly licensed before they can legally operate in that state. For every state in which an order is placed, the appropriate license is required but additionally, each state varies on which authority regulates this type of business and what additional licenses are necessary.

State licensing laws and state public health codes all have specific requirements that must be met. CT Corporation streamlines the licensing process for your business so that you can be certain that your mail order pharmacy is fully compliant with all registration requirements.

A Doctor of Pharmacy degree (PharmD) from a school or college of pharmacy that is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education is required to become a licensed pharmacist. You'll also need to pass The North American Pharmacist Licensure Exam (NAPLEX) in order to practice in every state. Each state may have different individual requirements for obtaining a pharmacist license.

A pharmacist must obtain a pharmacist license in any state in which he/she is dispensing pharmaceuticals. Typically, once licensed in his/her home state, he/she may apply for a pharmacist license in another state through reciprocity, making him/her eligible to waive certain requirements with respect to the licensing process. If the pharmacist will be acting as a pharmacist in charge for a pharmacy, requirements for pharmacist licensure may change depending on the states in which the pharmacy is located and intends on operating.

CT Corporation will research pharmacist licensing requirements, file and manage all pharmacist licenses and pharmacist renewals on your behalf.

For more information and assistance, please contact CT Corporation to consult a licensing specialist.

Generally, the licensing process for a compounding pharmacy is different from a standard pharmacy. Compounding pharmacies are often governed by state regulations specific to compounders. The level of record-keeping and due diligence often surpasses the standards required for non-compounders. Some states require additional attachments and forms for compounding pharmacies applying for the state pharmacy license. Other states have separate and distinct licenses required only for compounders. The regulatory landscape for compounders is changing rapidly and we expect many states will enact new licensing requirements over the next few years.

In many states compounding pharmacies need the same licenses as a regular retail pharmacies. These licenses are often called a resident pharmacy license for in-state pharmacies or a non-resident or mail-order pharmacy license for out-of-state pharmacies. The application process is similar to non-compounding pharmacies in most cases. Applications usually require sample labels, DEA Registration, inspection reports, and corporate documents. Compounding pharmacies must often provide supplemental information and attachments with each application. These can include internal policies and procedures of compounding practices, more stringent inspections, and proof of accreditation.

Some states have a separate license specifically for compounders. The California Board of Pharmacy, for example, requires in-state pharmacies either obtain the sterile compounding license or hold current accreditation through an enumerated list of private accreditation agencies. CA requires that non-resident pharmacies hold the non-resident pharmacy license AND the sterile compounding license AND a current accreditation.

The Florida Board of Pharmacy requires a special sterile compounding permit for resident pharmacies, in addition to the resident community pharmacy license. This license is not required for non-resident pharmacies at this time.

Other states, including Maryland, have proposed legislation that would require separate licenses for compounders.

CT Corporation will help guide compounding pharmacies through the changing landscape of licensing requirements and regulations. We can help you obtain all of the licenses and registrations you need, minimizing time-consuming and costly delays. If you are already licensed, we can file renewals and manage ongoing compliance. For additional help please contact CT Corporation

NABP Drug Distributor Accreditation (DDA) is an accreditation issued by the National Association of Boards of Pharmacy to wholesale distributor facilities. The accreditation ensures that facilities operate legitimately in full compliance with state and federal laws. Twenty-one states recognize the accreditation and North Dakota, Wyoming, and Indiana require it as an element of the licensure process. The accreditation process involves verification of the distributor’s existing state and federal licenses, criminal and financial background checks, and a detailed review of the company’s policies and procedures. The application also requires a $100,000 surety bond, proof of insurance, photos of the facility, a list of customers and vendors, a detailed business description, and an ownership chart.

The policy and procedure guides required are extensive. Formal company documents must be submitted in the areas of licensing and compliance with laws/regulations, operations, security, records, and many more. These documents must lay out a detailed plan of action for achieving the highest standards of compliance.

The application process takes 7-12 months. The initial fees are approximately $5,000, but they vary based on the number of background checks required. Annual renewals and documentation are required to maintain the accreditation.

Our services will help your company obtain all licenses and registrations and manage ongoing license renewals and compliance with state laws and regulations. For additional please contact CT Corporation

Third-party logistics providers offer “supply-chain” services to producing entities, maintaining one or more cogs in the flow of goods and products from the initial point of production to the final destination – the consumer.

Whether you are a group that specializes in obtaining raw materials needed for drug manufacturing, a storage facility that houses a distributor’s product while it is being prepared for shipping, a trucking company that transports pharmaceuticals from one place to another, or a comprehensive 3PL that handles all of these services together, there are important legal requirements that your business must satisfy.

3PL licensing

United States law requires a wholesale drug 3PL to be licensed in the state in which it does business. In certain states, there is a license specific to third-party logistics providers. Florida, for example, requires 3PLs to obtain a Third Party Logistics Provider License from the Division of Drugs, Devices, and Cosmetics. Other states may not have a specific 3PL license and may require the 3PL to become licensed as a wholesale drug distributor or another type of entity. The department that administers the appropriate license varies from state to state as well. If the 3PL transports drugs between states, it must be licensed in all of the states in which it does so. If the state in which the 3PL does business has not established a 3PL license requirement, the 3PL must file with the U.S. Secretary.

Applying for the appropriate license in each required state can be comprehensive and time-consuming. Applicants will typically be asked to provide samples of contracts, lists of customers and states in which the 3PL operates, and proof of general liability insurance. Application fees can range from several hundred to several thousand dollars. If you maintain a brick-and-mortar facility, you will more than likely be subject to state inspection of that facility. The entire approval process can take between four weeks and three months depending on the licensing division in the state in which you are applying.

Other requirements

In addition to obtaining a license in each state in which your 3PL operates, there may be other requirements that your company must satisfy in order to remain compliant. For instance, the FDA requires that a wholesale drug 3PL file an annual report of every state in which it operates, its applicable license numbers and expiration dates, and records of any disciplinary actions it incurred that year. It goes without saying that failure to comply with any facet of federal 3PL regulations can result in heavy fines, cease-and-desist orders, and the potential disintegration of your business.

How can CT Corporation help third-party logistics providers?

• CT Corporation will research the licensing requirements for every state and jurisdiction in which you operate.
• Your Dedicated Account Manager will then prepare and submit your 3PL license applications and consolidate all license fees into one simple invoice, saving you time, money, and frustration.
• Once your licenses have been issued, we ensure that you renew on time and remain compliant will all 3PL licensing laws.

  If you’re a 3PL, you recognize the benefits of outsourcing complicated aspects of an industry to experienced professionals. Let CT Corporation handle the licensing of your third-party logistics provider. Please contact CT Corporation to consult a licensing specialist.

In 1970, the federal Controlled Substances Act (CSA) was created to regulate substances that have the potential to be abused. At the time, the CSA lacked instructions for the maintenance and use of these substances by emergency medical services (EMS). Thus, States created their own EMS-related controlled substances requirements. In 2017, the Protecting Patient Access to Emergency Medications Act (PPAEMA) was introduced in US Congress to amend the CSA to include EMS requirements.

According to the law, an EMS organization must submit an application to the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) for registration and for demonstration that the applicant organization can provide the needed services in the specific state. The application is reviewed by the DEA and can be either accepted or denied. With an approved application from the DEA, the EMS organization can store, deliver, and receive controlled medications. These controlled medications can then be given to the patient when they are en route to the hospital. Furthermore, instead of applying for a new registration through the DEA for each separate EMS facility, an EMS agency may obtain a single registration in each state instead of a separate registration for each location.

An EMS agency must adhere to 3 regulations to stay compliant with federal law: First, the storage of these controlled substances must be at a registered agency or in a designated vehicle from the agency. Second, during delivery, an agency with a DEA registration must deliver the controlled substances to EMS. Finally, record keeping for these controlled substances can be done either electronically or on paper, but the approach must be specified and the records kept in a designated area. 

Selling durable medical equipment (DME) often requires a state‑issued license, and the exact requirements depend on the type of equipment you sell and the states in which you operate. Many states regulate DME retailers through their Boards of Pharmacy, and sellers may also need corporate documentation, background checks, proof of insurance, and inspections. Even licensed pharmacies may need additional authorization to sell DME. Because regulations vary, it’s important to confirm licensing rules in each state where you conduct business.

Wholesale drug distributors must be licensed at both the federal and state levels before engaging in distribution. Federally, regulations are administered by the DEA and FDA, while each state’s Board of Pharmacy issues its own distributor license. Distributors typically must secure a resident‑state license first, then obtain non‑resident licenses for every additional state where they operate. Most states require background checks, facility documentation, proof of insurance, disclosure of officers, and sometimes fingerprinting or NABP certification.

Yes, Health Departments in almost all states and/or localities require juice manufacturers to register with their office. Juice Manufactures are subject to food permits and inspections similar to those administered to restaurants. In addition to a food permit, States, Counties, and Municipalities may require business to obtain a local business license and other zoning approvals. CT Corporation can identify all the licensing requirements your business may need and file the forms on your behalf.

A Juice Manufacturer wishing to do business in Florida will need to obtain an “Annual Food Permit” from the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services. If they plan to distribute their product at the same facility they would also need an additional permit in order to do so. These permits require the facility to submit a plan review to the board for approval and undergo inspections before being allowed to operate. Additionally Florida cities and counties require a local Business Tax Receipt for any business operating within the city and county limits.

In Texas Juice and Food manufacturers are required to register with the State Department of Health Services prior to operating their business. Manufacturers must have their facilities inspected and pass zoning rules before being allowed to open.

In addition to Local and State Licenses, Juice Manufacturers, should review the FDA’s Juice Hazard Analysis & Critical Control Points (HACCP) legislation to see whether their business falls under the rules and regulations of this act. Depending on the type of business, quantity of juice being produced, and type of fruits or vegetables in the juice there may be rules imposed by the FDA.

CT Corporation can assist your new or expanding business obtain all applicable business licenses and your business stays in compliance with all license regulations. For additional help please contact CT Corporation to consult a licensing specialist.

A bakery business, as with any company that sells food to the public, must obtain the required state, county, or city licenses and permits.

In fact, in most jurisdictions, bakeries are treated as food establishments and must obtain a permit from the health department.

Licensing requirements to open a bakery business can vary by state, county, and city. Other considerations include the scale of your operations and whether you operate a storefront bakery or a home-based bakery business.

If you’re asking, “what licenses do I need to open a bakery?”, read on.

Retail bakery business license requirements

Brick-and-mortar bakery businesses are subject to several licensing, permit, and tax registration requirements. Below is a list of the most common licensing requirements for a bakery business with a storefront.

1. Food-related licenses, permits, and certifications

These are generally issued by your local health department. You may need more than one license depending on the business activity you conduct. For example, New York City issues one type of permit for food service establishments and a separate one for food processing and/or food preparation.

In some jurisdictions, this permit may also be referred to as a “building health permit” (not to be confused with a building permit).

Some jurisdictions also require all employees involved in the preparation, storage, or service of baked goods in a food facility to obtain a food handler permit.

The application process for food service licenses and permits can be lengthy and must include building plans and inspections. Check with your city’s small business department to find out licensing and application requirements to open a bakery.

2. General business-related licenses, permits, and registrations

In addition to a food service license or permit, you may need other business-related licenses, permits, and registrations. Examples include the following:

• Federal tax ID (EIN) number: Issued by the IRS, an EIN (also called a tax identification number or employer identification number) is required for many business types, including partnerships, LLCs, and corporations. If you are a sole proprietorship that plans on hiring employees, you will also need to obtain an EIN.
• State tax ID number: Issued by your state’s department of revenue or taxation, the state tax ID number is often called a tax registration number.
• Sales tax license/sellers permit/resellers permit: This license/permit has many names, and those names vary by state. But this license/permit is required for the selling of almost all products and services.
• Workers’ comp insurance: In most states, workers' compensation coverage is mandatory if you have at least one employee. Many states also require that businesses report new or rehired employees to the Department of Revenue or other state agency.
• DBA/fictitious business name registration: The doing business as (DBA) or fictitious business name registration happens with the appropriate state or local jurisdiction.
• General business license: This license (sometimes referred to as a business privilege license or a tax certificate) is typically issued by your county or city and grants you legal permission to operate a business in your city or state. If you plan to open several locations, you might need a general business license in each city where you operate. Some states, such as Washington and Nevada, have state-level licensing requirements in addition to local business licensing requirements.
• Zoning and land use permits: Local governments’ zoning laws may prohibit certain business activity in designated areas.
• Certificate of occupancy: A certificate of occupancy states a legal use and/or type of permitted occupancy of a building.
• Building permit: If you plan on remodeling or building a commercial space, you'll need to get a building permit.
• Sign permit: Before you put up a sign outside your business, you’ll need a sign permit from your city.
• Dumpster permit: This allows your bakery to place a dumpster near your business for the proper disposal of food waste. Check with your city to see if you need one.

Event planning is a growing business. Underpinning this growth is a surge in business events (conferences, brand promotions, and employee activities) and consumer events (weddings, festivals, and parades).

But as with any business, there are legal requirements for an event planning business. If you’re thinking of starting an event planning business, here are the licenses and permits you may need.

Is there an event planner license?

While there is no specific “event planner license”, there are other licensing obligations related to the business itself and when organizing an event.

Licensing vs. event planning certification

An event planning certification should not be confused with licensing. Event planning certifications are offered by professional organizations and schools. Licenses are issued by government agencies at the federal, state, local, and regional levels.

A felony is rarely an automatic bar to obtaining a business license. Most applications will ask the applicant or owner of the company to provide details and an explanation regarding any criminal convictions. The licensing authority will then investigate the incident and decide on whether to issue the tobacco license or not. 

Generally, if you are forthcoming with the information, and the crime is not directly related to the license you are seeking (for e.g. selling tobacco products to a minor); you will be issued the license.  Please contact CT Corporation to consult a licensing specialist.

Tobacco wholesales, retailers and vending machine operators must be licensed as dealers in most states.  These licenses are not transferable, so when business ownership is transferred, the new owner is responsible for obtaining a new tobacco license. For more information please contact a business license specialist. Our experts will guide you through the process to ensure your business holds the proper license.

f your company intends to store exported tobacco products within the United States, you may be required to obtain a federal permit. The Tobacco Export Warehouse Proprietor permit is required for all businesses that intend to warehouse tobacco products for export without payment of tax or with the drawback of tax. The license is issued through the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB). In order to apply for the permit, you must complete a detailed application, a personnel questionnaire for each officer, director, or stockholder of more than 10 percent, and obtain a surety bond.

U.S. Customs Service does not generally require an import/export license to trade goods internationally. However, specific products, such as plants, are listed as restricted items for purposes of international export. Therefore, obtaining an import/export license from the relevant government agency is essential for maintaining legal compliance only if you intend to export tobacco as a raw material.

It is recommended that tobacco exporters pre-emptively contact the embassy or consulate in the host country with which they intend to trade in order to understand the requisites of the receiving country. Many foreign governments do require verification of U.S. licensing as an assurance that products being brought and sold in their countries are suitable to be marketed within the U.S. and that the companies with whom they are doing business are legitimate. Thus, it is important that tobacco exporters consult with the importing country to determine exactly what type of information is required.

CT Corporation can help you obtain all necessary permits to ensure that your company is in compliance with federal, state, and local licensing laws. Our skilled account managers will identify any supplemental information needed, collect and complete all paperwork and applications, and monitor the process to ensure swift approval so that you can focus on growing your business. To get a free quote today, please contact CT Corporation to consult a licensing specialist.

If your company intends to manufacture tobacco products within the United States, you may be required to obtain a federal permit from the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB). Additional manufacturer or distributor of tobacco products licenses may be required by state and local authorities depending on where the tobacco will be sold. Federal law requires that all businesses that intend to manufacture tobacco products obtain a permit from TTB. To apply for a permit to manufacture tobacco products, you must complete a detailed application, a personnel questionnaire for each officer, director, or stockholder of more than 10 percent, provide a diagram of factory premises, and obtain a surety bond. Failure to secure and maintain proper licensing could potentially incur civil fines or the imposition of criminal penalties.

CT Corporation can help you obtain all necessary permits to ensure that your company is in compliance with federal, state, and local licensing laws. Our skilled account managers will identify any supplemental information needed, collect and complete all paperwork and applications, and monitor the process to ensure swift approval so that you can focus on growing your business. To get a free quote today, please contact CT Corporation to consult a licensing specialist.

If you sell e-cigarettes (or any other tobacco products), you must comply with federal, state, and local laws and regulations for retailers.

These laws are designed to curb the use of e-cigarettes and make them less attractive to youth.

If you want to open a vape shop or a business that sells e-cigarettes, here’s what you need to know about licensing requirements.

What are e-cigarettes?

E-cigarettes or vaping products use a battery to heat up liquid that usually contains nicotine, flavorings, and other additives. Users inhale this aerosol into their lungs. E-cigarettes can also be used to deliver cannabinoids such as marijuana, and other drugs.

E-cigarettes come in different shapes and sizes. Some e-cigarettes look like regular cigarettes, cigars, or pipes or other everyday items (e.g., pens and flash drives). These devices also have a variety of names, including e-cigs, vapes, vape pens, dab pens, tanks, mods, pro-mods, and electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS).

Changing regulatory landscape

E-cigarettes have surged in use in the past decade, and the retail regulatory landscape has changed rapidly to keep pace.

In December 2019, the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act was amended to raise the minimum age for the sale of tobacco products from 18 to 21 years, making it illegal to sell these products — including e-cigarettes — to anyone under 21. The Act also applies to active-duty military personnel or veterans aged 18 to 20.

The law evolved again in 2020, when the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) moved to limit children’s access to certain flavored e-cigarette products, including fruit and mint. At that time, the FDA finalized an enforcement policy that required companies to cease manufacturing, distributing, and selling these products within 30 days or risk enforcement actions. The policy does not apply to non-cartridge-based disposable products.

In recent years, some U.S. states and cities have also moved to impose flavor and online sales bans for e-cigarettes and related products.

For more details, visit https://www.wolterskluwer.com/en/expert-insights/license-requirements-to-sell-e-cigarettes.

Many local jurisdictions require business owners to apply for and secure a fire alarm permit if they will be operating in a commercial location. The fire alarm permit allows local inspectors to ensure that the fire prevention system is appropriately installed and in working order. Usually these permits are obtained from the local building or planning department.

There may also be a requirement to register your business' burglar alarm, depending on the jurisdiction in which you are located. Alarms that are wired to notify the local police are good examples of regulated alarm systems. Jurisdictions might require registration of company burglar alarms as part of a false alarm prevention program. Registrations might be handled through the municipality itself, or through a third party alarm monitoring company.

Alarm System Companies seeking to market, sell, and/ or monitor alarm systems located within another state may be required to obtain additional licenses, even if no physical installation occurs within the state. Business entity registration with the Secretary of State may be necessary, depending on the volume of business conducted in the new state or as a prerequisite for other licenses. Other states require tax registrations, local business licenses, and alarm system service licenses.

For example, an alarm company that mails self-install alarm systems to residents of Illinois, Tennessee, and New Jersey and performs security monitoring services from their home state would be required to obtain additional licensing. Illinois specifically requires companies to register with the Secretary of State, Department of Revenue, and to seek licensing from the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation as a Private Alarm Contractor Agency. Similarly, Tennessee requires registration with the Secretary of State and licensing with the Alarm Systems Contractors’ Board. New Jersey mandates, under the state’s Administrative Code Title 13, that alarm companies that monitor units located within the state hold licenses through the Department of Consumer Affairs as an Alarm and Locksmith Business.

Other states, like New York, do not require out-of-state companies to obtain licensing unless the business installs or services the actual units within the state. Companies that simply monitor the units are exempt from New York State’s licensing requirements.

Let CT Corporation identify all regulations and licensing requisites that apply to your business, and seamlessly navigate the filing process on your behalf. If you are already licensed, we can manage license renewals and ongoing license compliance. To get started, please contact CT Corporation to consult a licensing specialist.

“Alarm system” is an umbrella term that encompasses any device designed to detect and signal either an intrusion or a hazardous condition. These devices include, but are not limited to: burglar alarms, carbon monoxide detectors, door alarms, fire alarms, flood detectors, security systems, and smoke alarms. All states have a strong and established interest in protecting the safety and welfare of their citizens. Due to this interest, states regulate alarm system companies with licensing rules.

No License

Alarm system companies are not always required to obtain a license. For example, companies operating in Colorado or Wisconsin are not currently required to obtain a license. However, these two states represent the exception rather than the rule as most states do have a license requirement.

Alarm System Service License

Typically, a company can obtain an alarm system service license by filling out their state’s license application and paying the required license fee. Additional requirements, which vary from state to state, include: having an employee pass a required exam, designating a qualified agent, providing a certificate of insurance, providing a description of the training that the company will provide to their employees, listing all locations of branch offices, submitting a criminal background check record for each employee, and submitting fingerprints.

Separate Burglar and Fire Alarm Licenses

In some states, alarm system companies are required to obtain separate licenses – one for a burglar alarm and another for a fire alarm. For example, South Carolina separates the burglar alarm system business from the fire alarm system business. Similarly, in Utah, you can only obtain a burglar alarm license. To be in the fire alarm systems business, a company would have to complete the Fire Alarm Inspecting and Testing Certification Program successfully.

Contractor’s or Electrical Contractor’s License

In some states, alarm system companies will have to obtain either a contractor’s or electrical contractor’s license. A contractor is an individual or business entity that is contracted to perform work and supervise construction. In contrast, an electrical contractor performs specialized construction. An electrical contractor helps to design, install, maintain, and service electrical systems.

Low Voltage Contractor’s License

Other states require a low voltage contractor’s license. For example, an alarm company that is contracted to install, maintain, repair, or service low voltage systems in Arkansas and Georgia would be required to obtain this type of license.

Alarm systems are increasingly becoming an important and, arguably, a necessary component of any business or residential security plan. CT Corporation will help you navigate through the complex and often confusing world of alarm company licensing . We will identify and obtain all the licenses you need, saving you the time and hassle of doing it yourself. Alternatively, if you have already obtained licenses, we can manage license renewals and ensure ongoing license compliance. To get started, please contact CT Corporation to consult a licensing specialist.

Getting a private investigator license depends on your state’s specific requirements, which often include meeting minimum age and experience thresholds, passing background checks and exams, and proving good moral character. Many states also require fingerprinting, a clean criminal record, and in some cases a related degree to substitute for experience. Because licensing rules vary widely—and penalties for operating without a license can be severe—it’s essential to review the requirements in your state before applying. For full details, visit https://www.wolterskluwer.com/en/expert-insights/how-to-get-a-private-investigator-license.