In order to operate legally in District of Columbia, most businesses must be licensed. In nearly all cases, if you are doing business in the District of Columbia you are required to obtain a Basic Business License. However, there are some exemptions. 

If you have a current professional license for business activities, you do not need a Basic Business License. 

Business entities whose principals are required to maintain licensure by a local, state or national certification board or body will not be required to obtain a General Business License. For example, if you operate a law firm and your principals are certified by the Bar, then you do not need a General Business License. 

DCRA's Basic Business Licenses are divided into 14 categories - as linked below at the bottom of this page. If your business does not fit into any specific category, then you need obtain a General Basic Business License. 

Please review the Basic Business License categories below to locate your business type. If you can't find what you're looking for, please use the search function on the top of this page to assist you.

Did you know some business licenses can be issued online?

The Business License Division is pleased to announce the 1st phase of the new Basic Business Online Application Submission. This system is for a limited number of licensing categories (see list below). You may now submit an application, pay the applicable fees and receive a license via the Online Application System. Additional license categories will become available soon.

• General Business License
• Patent Medicine
• Cigarette Retail
• Cigarette Wholesale
• Auto Wash
• Bed and Breakfast
• Cooperative Association
• Security Agency (Firm)
• Security Agent (Person)

Apply for your Basic Business License

DCRA Instant License Search

DCRA now offers Web site visitors the opportunity to check if a business is licensed in the following categories: All housing licenses, motor vehicle sales, service and repair, and home improvement contractors. You can search by address, name or entire list.

• DCRA Instant License Search

Ready to Renew Your DC Business License Online?

More than 70 percent of businesses licensed by the Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs can now be renewed online. Check your renewal bill for information on how quickly and easily renew your license. If you are eligible, your renewal bill will include a unique six-digit PIN number.

• Renew Your DC Basic Business License Online Now

Still Have Questions?

• Frequently Asked Questions about Basic Business Licenses

Need Replacement License or Need to Have License Status Certified?

If you need to get a replacement copy of your Basic Business License or need to have your license status certified, please download the forms below. You can either walk-in to our License Center at 1100 4th Street SW, Second Floor, or mail in the form along with your payment ($6 for replacement BBL, $1 for certification). 

• DCRA Duplicate License Request Form
• DCRA License Certification Form