Applying for a Business License

A new business must obtain a business license within 75 days from the date the business begins operation. To obtain a business license an applicant must show evidence that he or she has applied for a Certificate of Occupancy or a Home Occupation Permit and has either registered the business as a corporation or partnership, or has registered a trade name, if applicable. If business license tax is applicable, it must be pre-paid as part of the application. The tax rate varies depending on the type of business. Most businesses pay a tax based on gross receipts earned in the previous calendar year. A few categories of businesses pay a flat fee. A new business must estimate its gross receipts in order for its tax to be calculated. The tax will be adjusted the following year to reflect actual gross receipts for the estimated year.

Businesses are taxed based on gross receipts. Businesses which are taxed on gross receipts and whose license basis does not exceed $10,000 do not owe a tax. However, you must still file to obtain a license. Businesses with a tax basis between $10,001 and $50,000 pay a fee of $30. Businesses with gross receipts between $50,001 and $100,000 pay a fee of $50. Businesses with projected gross receipts over $100,001 pay their tax based on the rate for their business category.

Business licenses must be renewed and taxes paid no later than March 1 each year. Certain small businesses are eligible to pay the tax on a semi-annual installment basis. For more information, call the Arlington Commissioner of Revenue at (703) 228-3060.

Please note that the local business license is in addition to any professional licensing requirements of the State of Virginia, discussed in the State Licensing section.

State Licensing

The Commonwealth of Virginia regulates certain businesses, occupations, and professions by requiring licensure before beginning operations in the state. Entry into each profession is regulated by respective Virginia regulatory bodies which establish minimum standards for education and training and may require an oral or written examination.

The following professions are licensed by the Department of Health Professions:

The Department of Education accredits, licenses or regulates the following:

To obtain a license, these requirements must be met. Certain other occupations require state licensing other than for regulating entry. Please note that the accuracy and completeness of the list below cannot be guaranteed due to possible changes in state regulations. Persons entering the businesses or occupations listed below should contact the identified State of Virginia agency for licensing information. The Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation licenses the following occupations and businesses:

For more information see the quick reference for licenses and permits page, or call the Virginia Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation at (804) 367-8500.

The Alcohol Beverage Control Board licenses businesses involved in the production, distribution, storage, transportation and/or sale of alcoholic beverages. For more information, see the quick reference for licenses and permits page, or call the Virginia Alcohol Beverage Control Board at (703) 518-8090.