Most businesses that operate in Delaware need a state business license. Then check your town and county, and the state agencies that license your kind of work.
What’s different in Delaware
- The state issues a general business license, and most businesses that operate here need one, renewed by December 31 each year, or every third year on a three-year license. Qualifying nonprofits are exempt. Getting it is covered in Get your tax IDs.
- A professional license doesn’t replace it. Licensed professionals need both.
- One state starting point. Delaware Business First Steps lists the state licenses, certifications and permits by profession and industry, with links to county, city and town requirements.
Do this
- Get your state business license through One Stop if you haven’t yet.
- Search Delaware Business First Steps for your profession or industry. It shows the state requirements, such as a food establishment license or a professional license.
- Check with your town and county. Some require their own business license or permits, and some towns defer to their county. First Steps’ local licensing page lists each county, city and town with its contacts.
- Check zoning before you sign a lease. Home or rented space, ask your town’s or county’s planning office whether your activity is allowed at that address.
- Get any state license your work needs. Many professions license with the Division of Professional Regulation. Restaurants, bars and other alcohol sellers license with the Office of the Alcoholic Beverage Control Commissioner. Contractors register with the Division of Revenue, and non-resident contractors post a bond.
- Ask for help if the list gets long. The SBA’s Delaware District Office offers counseling and connects you to partner organizations that help small businesses.
What you get back
A state business license, plus any local license and one license or permit per state agency that regulates your work. Each renews on its own schedule. The state business license expires December 31, every year or every third year, so note the dates.
Common questions
Does Delaware require a state business license?
Yes, unless you're a qualifying nonprofit. A business that operates in Delaware needs one from the Delaware Division of Revenue, generally $75 a year for the first location. It's separate from any professional license.
Do I need a business license to work from home in Delaware?
You need the state business license wherever you work. Ask your town or county whether you also need a local license or a home business permit, and whether zoning allows your activity at home.
Do I still need a Delaware business license if I have a professional license?
Yes. A license from the Division of Professional Regulation doesn't replace the state business license.
Where do I get a liquor license in Delaware?
From the Office of the Alcoholic Beverage Control Commissioner. Fees and terms depend on the license type.
Sources
- Delaware Business First Steps
- Delaware Business First Steps, get your license
- Delaware Business First Steps, county, city and town licensing
- Delaware Business First Steps, liquor license
- Delaware Division of Revenue, business license FAQs
- Delaware Division of Revenue, registration requirements
- Delaware Division of Revenue, licensing and registration
- Delaware Division of Revenue, resident and non-resident contractors
- Delaware Division of Professional Regulation
- SBA, Delaware District Office
- Delaware Division of Revenue, non-profit corporations
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