How to Get an LLC License in Virginia

Any business entity operating in Virginia must register with the State Corporation Commission.

Any business entity operating in Virginia must register with the State Corporation Commission. In order to get a LLC license in Virginia, that company must file articles of organization with the state. These articles can be submitted by mail or in person. As of 2010, the fee is $100.

Things You'll Need

• Articles of organization
• Name reservation application

Instructions

1. Confirm that your name is available. Business entity names must be easily distinguishable from existing entities registered in Virginia. You can call the State Corporation Commission at 804-371-9733 to confirm your name availability. If your name is available, you can reserve it for a period of 120 days. As of 2010, there is a filing fee of $10.

2. Submit the application for reservation of a LLC name. This form is available on the State Corporation Commission website.

3. Establish a registered agent. This individual must be a resident of Virginia, a member of management for the LLC or a member of the Virginia State Bar and agree to act as the registered agent. If the registered agent is a company, the business must be authorized to conduct business in the state of Virginia. The registered agent address must be a physical location in Virginia where legal process can be served. A business entity cannot act as its own registered agent. You can hire a registered agent by performing a general internet search or by calling the Virginia State Bar’s Lawyer Referral Service at 804-775-0808.

4. Fill out articles of organization. This form is available on line or by calling 804-371-9733. You need to provide the name and address of your limited liability company. You must also fill out the section identifying the registered agent who will act on your behalf. This section requires the name of the registered agent, their involvement with the company and their physical address. An individual who is authorized to act on behalf of the LLC must sign the application as an organizer. This individual does not have to be a member of the LLC and merely is attesting to the truthfulness of the application.

5. Mail the articles of organization and $100 fee to the State Corporation Commission:

   State Corporation Commission

   P.O. Box 1197

   Richmond, VA 23218-1197

   or drop them off in person at:

   1300 East Main Street

   Tyler Building, 1st Floor

   Richmond, VA 23219

   You application is processed in approximately one week.

References

• State Corporation Commission: Business Registration Guide
• State Corporation Commission: Forms and Fees

Resources

• State Corporation Commission: Articles of Organization of a Domestic Limited Liability Company
• State Corporation Commission: Application for Reservation of a Limited Liability Company Name