State Guide

Alabama Business License

This guide covers Alabama's general business license requirements — state-level registration, local city and county licenses, fees, and renewal timelines.

Overview

Businesses operating in Alabama are subject to a layered licensing framework. The state requires a Business Privilege License, but issuance and administration are handled at the county level by the County Probate Judge's office — not directly by the state.

In addition to the state-level requirement, most cities and counties impose their own local business licenses with separate fees, deadlines, and agencies. Most businesses operating in Alabama need all three layers: state privilege, county, and city.

Alabama Business Privilege License

Key noteRequired by state law but issued at the county level. Contact your County Probate Judge's office.

Initial Registration

Filing methodIn person or mail at County Probate Judge's office
Agency feeVaries by county and business type
NotesContact the relevant County Probate Judge's office for county-specific instructions and fee schedules.

Registration Renewal

Filing methodIn person or mail (county process varies)
Agency feeVaries by county
Due dateLicenses expire September 30 and are renewed annually by October 31

Local General Business Licenses

Alabama's 160+ cities and all 67 counties may require separate local business licenses. Requirements, fee schedules, and renewal calendars are set locally and vary significantly across jurisdictions.

EntityEngine does not provide tax, financial, or legal advice. Requirements change — always verify with the issuing agency. Confirm with County Probate Judge (county-level administration) →

Frequently Asked Questions

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