A Guide to Your Virginia Business License

The state tourism slogan is, “Virginia is for Lovers,” but it’s for business owners too. In fact, Virginia has a very high rate of new businesses that succeed — compared to those that close down.

So if you’re looking to start a business in the Old Dominion, you’re in the right place. But before you get too far ahead, you should first investigate Virginia business licenses. A business license allows you to operate your company within the state. And it likely showcases a level of professionalism to customers.

As you research business licenses, you may find a lot of confusing information online. That’s why we created this quick guide to getting licensed in Virginia. It will help explain the benefits of getting a Virginia business license and the steps you need to take to become official.

Let’s get started!

Do I Need to Get a Virginia Business License?

It typically depends on your profession. At the moment, the Commonwealth of Virginia doesn’t have a hard and fast statewide licensing rule for business owners — only for specific professions.

For example, if you are an auctioneer, barber, home inspector, engineer, or real estate agent, you are required to have a license to work.

But other professions, like writers, designers, and marketing consultants, are off the hook.

It’s best to first check the Virginia Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation to find out if you need a license to operate your business. You may want to check with your local city or county, too. Some local municipalities require business licenses and have zoning requirements that must be followed.

Before opening your business’s doors, make sure you learn the guidelines at both the local and state levels.

Still wondering if you really need a business license? Here’s the bottom line: operating a business without a license puts you at risk. If you get caught (and it’s a requirement for your job), you can end up paying hefty fines, or worse, potentially having your business shut down.

It’s likely not worth the risk. Instead, do your due diligence and follow the licensing rules for your profession.

Plus, getting a Virginia business license has a lot of benefits that you may not have considered. For example, a business license can:

• Make your customers feel more confident in your work.
• Support your company’s brand name, making it appear credible and professional.
• Help you market your business to new customers.
• And more!

Ready to get your Virginia business license now? Let’s talk about the steps to take.

How to Get a Business License in Virginia

1. Go to the website shown below to learn about requirements.

Remember, at this time, not every business owner in Virginia needs a license — only certain trades and professions. Visit Virginia’s Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation to learn the guidelines for your line of work.

Next, call your local city or county department. It’s possible you may have local guidelines to follow. If you cover your bases now, it can save you a hassle or a penalty in the future.

2. Organize key information about your business.

Most Virginia business licenses require an application that asks for certain information. To save time in the long run, it helps to have this information organized before you start filling out the paperwork.

As you download your profession’s business license application, make sure you have these details on-hand:

• Your business’s official name
• Your Federal Tax ID or EIN, or a Social Security number (for sole proprietors)
• Information about your business’s entity (i.e., sole proprietorship, partnership, LLC, etc.)
• Your address and phone number
• Your business’s address and phone number
• Your driver’s license number
• A seller’s permit number (if you sell goods)
• A solid business plan, including your expected revenue and expenses
• A Certificate of Insurance (COI) showing you carry a business insurance policy

Remember, the faster you collect this application information, the faster you can receive your Virginia business license. Get organized now, and it will likely pay off later.

3. Follow your profession’s application process.

Because Virginia issues business licenses by profession, the requirements can vary greatly. For example, you may need to take an exam to be licensed if you’re a contractor or barber. Other professions, like professional athletes, including boxers and wrestlers, usually just need to complete an application form.

Confused? Don’t be. Just check the Commonwealth of Virginia’s Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation to learn the requirements for your line of work. You can download application forms there and find out the dates for upcoming exams, if required.

Also, contact your local county or city to find out its requirements. It’s possible you may need to complete another application in addition to the state’s paperwork.

4. Send in your Virginia business license application and the fee, if it’s required.

For the most part, you’ll need to complete and mail in a paper-based application form. You can download and print your licensing form online. Remember, a committee or association for your profession will need to review your application materials and send you your approved business license.

This can take some time, depending on your line of work. It’s best to contact the board or association that is reviewing your application to find out when you may be able to expect a response.

How Much Does a Virginia Business License Cost?

Once again, it depends on the type of work you do. For example, a license may cost more for a contractor than for a cosmetologist. Many professions also require that you renew your license each year. And if you don’t renew your license by the deadline, you may have to pay a late fee.

It’s best to know the guidelines for your individual profession so you’re fully prepared. Find out if you have to:

• Renew your business license each year.
• Pay a late fee if it’s not renewed on time.
• Keep up with any other requirements.

Fortunately, these details are in one place — either on the Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation website or your local municipal department.

Starting a Business in Virginia: Licensing + Insurance Info

As you know, every profession has different requirements when it comes to business licensing in Virginia. But one thing remains the same — the need for business insurance. Whether your work requires a Certificate of Insurance (COI) to be licensed or not, getting an insurance policy is usually a good idea.

Business insurance can help protect you financially if you’re accused of negligence or if an accident or injury happens on your business’s property. These claims can be extremely costly — enough to put many business owners out of work.

So whether it’s a requirement for you or not, investigate getting a general liability or professional liability policy today. It can protect you and offer peace of mind as you grow your business.

To compare plans and provider options, check out our free quote tool. In just 10 minutes or less, you can see top insurers who protect Virginia business owners.