Business License Cost in Georgia (2026): Varies by City
Occupational Tax Certificate. Local fees $50–$400/year. 3–10 business days to process.
Georgia issues business licenses locally as Occupational Tax Certificates. Fees range from $50–$400/year based on gross receipts and business type. Atlanta charges $75–$490+ depending on revenue tier. Unincorporated county areas require county-level certificates. Most professional fields also require state board licensing on top of local licensing.
State License Fee
N/A
No state license required
Local License Fee
$50–$400
city/county, per year
Processing Time
3+
business days
Georgia Business License: Key Facts
| License Name | Occupational Tax Certificate |
| Issued By | City or county tax commissioner |
| State Fee | None (local fees apply) |
| Local Fee Range | $50–$400/year |
| Renewal | Annual |
| Processing Time | 3–10 business days |
| State Income Tax | Yes |
What You Need to Apply
Before applying for a business license in Georgia, have these ready:
- ✓ Business name and structure — whether you're a sole proprietor, LLC, or corporation changes which forms you file
- ✓ EIN (Employer Identification Number) — free from IRS.gov, required for most licenses
- ✓ Business address — physical location in Georgia or a registered agent address
- ✓ Business description and NAICS code — the license fee may depend on your business category
- ✓ Payment method — credit card or check for the license fee
Georgia-Specific Licensing Note
Georgia business licenses are issued at the city and county level. Most Georgia jurisdictions require an Occupational Tax Certificate at $50–$400/year depending on gross receipts.
Also Starting a Georgia LLC?
Forming a Georgia LLC costs $100 in state filing fees and takes 3–7 business days. Business licenses and LLC formation are separate — you'll need both to legally operate.
How to Form a Georgia LLC →Professional and Industry-Specific Licenses
A general business license isn't the only license you may need. Most regulated professions require separate state-issued licenses regardless of your general business license status:
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a business license cost in Georgia?
Georgia issues business licenses locally as Occupational Tax Certificates. Fees range from $50–$400/year based on gross receipts and business type. Atlanta charges $75–$490+ depending on revenue tier. Unincorporated county areas require county-level certificates. Most professional fields also require state board licensing on top of local licensing.
Do I need a business license in Georgia?
Yes. Georgia requires businesses to obtain a Occupational Tax Certificate before operating. Georgia business licenses are issued at the city and county level. Most Georgia jurisdictions require an Occupational Tax Certificate at $50–$400/year depending on gross receipts.
How do I get a business license in Georgia?
Apply for a Occupational Tax Certificate through the city or county tax commissioner. Processing takes 3–10 business days in most cases. You'll need your business name, entity type, EIN, and physical address before applying.
What is the difference between a business license and an LLC in Georgia?
An LLC (Limited Liability Company) is a legal business structure registered with the Secretary of State — it gives you liability protection and separates personal and business assets, costing $100 in Georgia. A business license is an operating permit from your state or local government that allows you to legally conduct business in that jurisdiction. Most small business owners need both.
Plan Your Business Costs
Business licenses are one piece of your startup budget. Use these calculators to plan the rest:
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