State and Local License Requirements
Maryland Business License Information System
A web-based system that helps new and existing business owners determine which state licenses and permits are needed to operate in Maryland. BLIS significantly reduces the time and money that small and mid-sized companies typically spend researching the legal requirements of business licenses by providing most of the necessary information.
Business Licenses
A State of Maryland Business License is required for most businesses, including retailers and wholesalers. A traders license is required for buying and re-selling. Business activities that require licenses include, but are not limited to: amusements; auctions; chain stores; construction; dry cleaners; farm machinery; garages; hawkers and peddlers; junk dealers; plumbing and gas fitters; restaurants; retail stores; storage warehouses; traders; and, vending machines.
You can get more information on State and local business license requirements from:
Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation
Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing
500 North Calvert Street, 3rd Floor
Baltimore, Maryland, 21202
Applications for Maryland Business License
Applications for the Maryland business license may be obtained from the Clerk of the Circuit Court in the county in which your business will be located.
Regulatory Licenses
The Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation (DLLR) is a major occupational and professional licensing agency in the State of Maryland. The Department is also responsible for the enforcement of commerce, employment, and workplace and public safety laws.
DLLR – Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing
(888) 218-5925
The Department's Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing regulates many business occupations and professions. Individuals working in the following areas need to obtain occupational or professional licenses in addition to State and local business licenses:
Architects
Barbers
Bay Pilots
Certified Public Accountants
Cosmetologists
Master Electricians
Examining Engineers
Foresters
Heating Ventilation, Air Conditioning and Refrigeration
Home Improvement Contractors and Sales
Interior Designers
Landscape Architects
Office of Cemetery Oversight
Professional Engineers
Professional Land Surveyors
Plumbers
Real Estate Appraisers
Real Estate Brokers and Sales
Secondhand Precious Metal Object Dealers and Pawnbrokers
Sports Agents
Members of the Boxing, Kickboxing and Wrestling Industry
For most occupations and professions, individuals must meet educational and work experience standards as well as pass a qualifying examination in order to obtain a license.
DLLR – Division of Employment and Training
(410) 767-2400
The Division of Employment and Training is responsible for the administration of the unemployment insurance laws. New businesses are required to pay unemployment insurance taxes and should contact the Division to establish an account.
DLLR – Division of Labor and Industry
(410) 767-2236
The Division of Labor and Industry protects and promotes the health, safety and employment rights of Maryland citizens. The Division administers laws governing these areas (the underlined laws require licensing):
- Maryland Occupational Safety and Health
- Wage Payment
- Employment of Minors
- Prevailing Wage
- Amusement Ride Safety
- Boiler, Pressure Vessel, Elevator and Escalator Safety
- Employment Agencies
- Farm Labor Contractor Registration
DLLR – Division of Financial Regulation
(410) 230-6100
The Division of Financial Regulation regulates and, in many instances, licenses, the operation of banks, credit unions, consumer loan companies, sales finance companies, mortgage companies, and collection agencies.
Maryland Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation
(410) 230-6000