Do I need a business license?

Some states and cities require all businesses to get a license, it's a tax on doing business and when you pay the tax, issuing the license is automatic. Some businesses are regulated by state or local boards, and require a license to show that they meet the requirements. For example, restaurants are often regulated by a board of health and must undergo periodic inspections and meet equipment requirements. So depending on your business and your local, you may require one or more licenses.