How to Get a Business License in Alabama

Alabama requires anyone who operates a business in the state to have a license to operate. In addition to a state license, some Alabama counties also require business owners to apply for a city business license. The Alabama Department of Revenue issues state business licenses, whereas municipalities process county license applications.

Instructions

1. Contact your Alabama County Probate Office to apply for a state business license. Each county office distributes applications and licenses, so visit your local office to complete a business license application. A list of County Probate Offices is available in the Resource section.

2. Visit your city or county revenue department to apply for a municipal business license. The local department can give you the application required for a municipal business license. For example, in Jefferson County, which includes Birmingham, business owners complete a Application for Business License. Business owners need to include business revenue from the previous year on the application and submit their most recent federal and state income tax returns with the application.

3. Renew your business license annually. Both Alabama state and municipal business licenses run from October 1 to September 30 of each year, and businesses must hold an up-to-date license at all times.

Tips & Warnings

• The cost of both the state and municipal business license varies depending on the type of business you operate. Your County Probate Office and city can provide you with specific licensing fees.

References

• Alabama Department of Revenue: Business Licensing FAQs
• Jefferson County, Alabama: Business Licenses

Resources

• Alabama Department of Revenue: County Probate Offices Contact Information
• Jefferson County, Alabama: Application for Business License