Business Licenses for Texas LLCs — City, County & State
Texas does not have a single statewide "general business license." Instead, licensing requirements come from multiple levels — state regulatory agencies, your county, and your city. The licenses you need depend on your industry, location, and business activities. This page helps you identify what applies to your Texas LLC. For all post-formation requirements, see our after-formation guide.
State-Level Licenses and Permits
Texas state agencies regulate specific industries. If your LLC operates in a regulated field, you may need:
| Industry | Licensing Agency | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Construction/contracting | No state license required (local only) | Texas is one of few states without a state contractor license |
| Real estate sales/brokerage | Texas Real Estate Commission (TREC) | Required for buying/selling on behalf of others |
| Insurance | Texas Department of Insurance | Required for agents, adjusters, companies |
| Food service/restaurant | Texas Department of State Health Services | Food establishment license + local health permit |
| Alcoholic beverage sales | Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission (TABC) | Various permit types based on beer/wine/liquor |
| Professional services (CPA, attorney, engineer) | Respective licensing boards | Individual license required; may also need PLLC |
| Auto dealer | Texas DMV | General distinguishing number (GDN) |
| Childcare/daycare | Texas Health and Human Services | Licensed child-care center permit |
| Cannabis/hemp | Texas Department of Agriculture | Low-THC cannabis license (limited program) |
Key Texas distinction: Texas does not require a general state business license for most LLCs. If you are not in a specifically regulated industry, you may only need local permits.
City-Level Licenses
Most Texas cities require some form of business registration. Requirements vary significantly:
Houston:
- No general city business license required for most businesses
- Specific permits for food, alcohol, construction, signage
- COH commercial permit for certain commercial activities
Dallas:
- Certificate of Occupancy required for commercial spaces
- Specific permits for food, alcohol, solicitation, events
- Home occupation permit for home-based businesses in some zones
San Antonio:
- No general business license
- Commercial building permits and CO required
- Specific permits for food handlers, alcohol, noise
Austin:
- No general business license requirement
- Commercial permits through Austin Development Services
- Music venue permits, food service permits, short-term rental licenses
Fort Worth:
- Certificate of Occupancy for commercial locations
- Home-based business registration
- Industry-specific permits (food, auto repair, etc.)
County-Level Requirements
Ready to get started?
Get StartedAssumed Name Certificate (DBA): If your LLC operates under any name other than its registered legal name, you must file an Assumed Name Certificate with the county clerk where you do business (fee: $25-$50 depending on county). Valid for 10 years.
Home Rule vs. General Law cities: Texas has both home rule cities (population 5,000+, which can create their own regulations) and general law cities (limited powers). Home rule cities tend to have more licensing requirements.
How to Determine What You Need
- Check your industry — Use the table above to identify any state-level requirements
- Check your city — Contact your city's permitting/licensing department or check their website
- Check your county — If operating under a DBA, file the Assumed Name Certificate
- Check zoning — If operating from home, verify your local zoning allows home-based businesses
- Texas Sales Tax Permit — If selling taxable goods/services, register with the Comptroller (free)
Texas-Specific Advantages
No state contractor license: Unlike California, Arizona, or Florida, Texas does not require a statewide contractor license. Construction businesses need local permits for specific projects but no state-level general contractor license. This makes it significantly easier to start a construction LLC in Texas.
No state professional license for many fields: Marketing, consulting, web development, graphic design, writing, coaching, and many other professional services require no license at any level in Texas — just your LLC formation.
FAQ
Ready to get started?
Get StartedDoes my Texas LLC need a general business license?
In most cases, no. Texas does not issue a statewide general business license. You only need licenses specific to your industry, city, or type of activity. Many LLCs (consulting, e-commerce, freelancing) need no license beyond formation and a sales tax permit (if applicable).
Do I need a license to work from home?
Depends on your city. Some cities (like Dallas) require a home occupation permit. Others (Houston) have no requirement for home-based businesses. Check your city's zoning department.
What is the penalty for operating without required licenses?
Varies by license type. Operating without a TABC liquor license can result in criminal penalties. Operating without a city permit may result in fines ($100-$2,000 per day). Operating without a state professional license (practicing law or medicine without a license) is a criminal offense.
Where do I file my Assumed Name Certificate?
With the county clerk of each county where you conduct business under the assumed name. The fee is typically $25-$50. You must also file with the Secretary of State if doing business statewide (Form 503, $25 fee).