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Business Formation Guide
licensingUpdated 2026-03-31

Do I Need a Business License for My LLC in Texas?

No. Texas does not require a general business license for LLCs under the Texas Business Organizations Code. You can form and operate an LLC without obtaining a statewide business license. However, your LLC may need industry-specific licenses or permits depending on your business activities.

What You Actually Need

Sales Tax Permit — Required if you sell taxable goods or services. Apply free through the Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts.

Employer Identification Number (EIN) — Required by the IRS if you have employees or operate as a multi-member LLC. Apply free at IRS.gov.

Professional Licenses — If your LLC provides regulated professional services (law, medicine, dentistry, accounting, architecture, engineering, veterinary medicine, optometry), you must form a Professional LLC under Tex. Bus. Org. Code Ch. 301 and Ch. 304. Members must hold valid professional licenses from their respective state licensing boards.

Industry-Specific Licenses & Permits

Depending on your business type, you may need:

  • Food establishments — Permit from Texas Department of State Health Services
  • Alcohol sales — License from Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission (TABC)
  • Construction/building — Permits from your local city or county
  • Home-based business — Permit from your local jurisdiction (if required)

Local Requirements

Contact your city or county government about zoning compliance, home occupation permits, or other local business requirements. These vary by jurisdiction.

Next Steps

  1. Identify your industry. Visit the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) at https://www.tdlr.texas.gov to determine if your business requires state licensing.

  2. File your LLC. Submit Articles of Organization with the Texas Secretary of State.

  3. Get an EIN. Apply free at IRS.gov if you have employees or operate as a multi-member LLC.

  4. Register for sales tax. Apply free for a sales tax permit from the Texas Comptroller if you sell taxable items.

  5. Check local requirements. Contact your city or county about permits specific to your location and business type.

  6. Obtain profession-specific licenses. If you're in a regulated field, apply through your state licensing board before operating.

This is general information, not legal advice.