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Does Your Business Need A License?
The DC Department of Consumer & Regulatory Affairs (DCRA) licenses more than 30,000 small businesses citywide more than 150 different categories. In order to operate legally in District of Columbia, most businesses must get a Basic Business License (BBL) from the DCRA.
For a copy of the relevant laws and rules applicable to these BBL categories, or for applications that are not available by downloading, visit the DCRA Licensing Center in person at 941 North Capitol Street, NE, First Floor, Washington, DC, 20002.
Before applying for a license, please read the requirements on the application and download/print all required forms for the category.
If you do not see the specific type of Basic Business License you need in the list above, chances are you need to apply for the Basic Business License for General Business.
Because many of you may be new to the licensing process, we have compiled a comprehensive list of basic and complex questions and answers to assist you during the application process.
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.
Now Accepting Applications for New General Contractor/Construction Manager License
The District of Columbia now requires all individuals or companies engaged in the business of general contracting or construction management to obtain a business license from the Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs.
The total fee for obtaining a general contractor/construction manager business license is $595 and the license is valid for two years. This new license will allow the District of Columbia to protect consumers by identifying and taking enforcement actions against unlicensed general contractors operating in the city.
Currently licensed Home Improvement Contractors who would like to apply for the General Contractor/Construction Manager license will be required to pay the difference in cost. DCRA encourages all contractors who may serve as a general contractor or construction manager to seek this license.
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.
To renew you will need:
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BBL Number – this number is printed on your renewal bill
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FEIN – the Federal Employer Identification Number of your business
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PIN – a Personal Identification Number that is sent to you with your renewal bill
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You will need to make payment with a Visa, MasterCard, or Discover
You can renew your business application online 30 days prior to the expiration of your current license.
DCRA must verify the information prior to the issuance of your renewal license.
New Penalties for Failure to Renew License
The Basic Business License Division (BLD) requires licensees to pay a penalty for failure to renew their license within the required renewal period. As of October 1, 2009, the following penalties must be paid if you fail to renew your license by the deadline.
Working from Home?
You need a Home Occupancy Permit (HOP) before you can be issued a Basic Business License. For more information, visit the HOP information page.
Mailing in Application? Please See New Address for DCRA Lock Box
DCRA is updating all forms, applications and other materials to include the new address for the DCRA Lockbox. The new address as of May 11, 2009 is:
Bank of America Lockbox Services
Attention: DC Government Wholesale Lockbox #91360
11333 McCormick Road
Hunt Valley, MD 21031
Before you get your license you need to register your business. Have you registered your business?
New Regulations for Used Motor Vehicle Sales, Auto Repair and Towing Lots
Emergency regulations became effective December 23, 2008, and were published in the District of Columbia Register on January 2, 2009, that strengthen the business licensing requirements for motor vehicle dealers and salespersons, limit the number of vehicles that can be stored outdoors in commercial zones, require a permanent structure on all lots, and limit the number of salesmen based on the size of the lot, among others. Please review the information below if you are a current dealer or if you are interested in starting a new dealership.
Taking Care of the Environment Makes Good Business Sense
Congratulations on becoming a licensed business in the District of Columbia. The District Department of the Environment (DDOE) and the Department of Public Works (DPW) want to share a few simple ways for you to reduce pollution while saving money.
DDOE programs are designed to facilitate cleaner air and water, green our neighborhoods and building space, and assist with the management of hazardous and toxic waste disposal. DPW operates the residential recycling program and enforces commercial recycling laws.
New Application and Endorsement Fees as of October 1, 2008
DCRA has adjusted its BBL application and endorsement fees for the first time in five years. The BBL Application Fee is now $70 and the BBL Endorsement Fee is now $25. The license fees remain unchanged.
Thinking of Starting a New Business in the District of Columbia?
Need Supplemental Forms To Complete Your Application?
Need to Register Your Trade (Business) Name?
You can register and use a business (trade) name that's different from your individual, corporation, partnership, or company name.
Need to Get Your Equipment Inspected from the DCRA Office of Weights & Measures?
The DCRA is continually striving to make its Web site more user-friendly and efficient. We are currently working on ways to expand services and bring all license categories to the Instant License Check. Please view our site regularly for updates. If you have ideas, email us.
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