State Guide

District of Columbia Business License

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

Get Free Licensing Guide

Overview

The District of Columbia requires virtually every business operating within its boundaries to obtain a Basic Business License (BBL) from the Department of Licensing and Consumer Protection (DLCP). The BBL replaces a patchwork of separate permits with a single license covering most business activities.

DC businesses must also register their entity with the DC Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs (DCRA), obtain an EIN from the IRS, and register with the DC Office of Tax and Revenue (OTR) before applying for the BBL. DC operates as both city and state, so there is no separate local licensing layer — all licensing flows through DLCP.

Basic Business License (BBL)

Primary agencyDC Department of Licensing and Consumer Protection (DLCP)
Legal authorityDC Code § 47-2851
Key noteAll DC businesses must obtain a BBL before beginning operations. Licenses are issued for 2- or 4-year terms.

Initial Registration

Filing methodOnline at My DC Business Center (mybusiness.dc.gov) or in person at 1100 4th Street SW
Agency feeVaries by business activity category
PrerequisitesEntity registration (DCRA), EIN (IRS), and DC tax registration (OTR) required before applying

Registration Renewal

Filing methodOnline renewal at My DC Business Center
Agency feeVaries by license category; renewal 90 days before expiration
Due dateLast day of the month of license expiration (2- or 4-year terms)

Local General Business Licenses

DC operates as a combined city-state; there is no separate county or municipal licensing layer. All licensing flows through DLCP.

Cities & Townships

District of ColumbiaWashington

EntityEngine does not provide tax, financial, or legal advice. Requirements change — always verify with the issuing agency. Confirm with DC Department of Licensing and Consumer Protection (DLCP) →

Frequently Asked Questions

Track your District of Columbia licenses automatically.

EntityEngine tracks every license, deadline, and renewal — so nothing expires without you knowing.

Start Free Pricing and Packaging