California Licensing Information

Important Points:

  • A business license is required for most types of business in the state of California. Business license board organizations issue various state business licenses.

How to Get a Business License in California:

  • If you plan to hire at least one employee, contact the Internal Revenue Service (1-800-829-1040) or visit them online to get a Federal Employer’s Identification Number, and to request your w-4, SS-4, Circular E and Publication 334 forms.
  • Register your business entity for tax and employer identification.
  • To look up requirements and to obtain business license in state of California, use their business permitting and licensing information database.
    • You can also check with Consumer Affairs to determine if your business requires license or permits.

California State Sales Tax:

  • California’s combined state, county, and local sales and use tax is 7.25%
    • Rate may be higher in cities and counties with special taxing districts. Find your county and city’s sales tax rate here.

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