Our office’s goal is to foster the ease of doing business in Texas. Governor Greg Abbott is committed to upholding our state’s pro-business regulatory climate, ensuring that businesses have the freedom to flourish in Texas.
The Business Permit Office assists businesses in navigating Texas’ permitting, licensing and regulatory environment. The Office does not issue or administer any licenses or permits.
The State of Texas does not require a general license. All entities that transact business in Texas are required to register with the Texas Secretary of State or county clerk’s office. As a result, the certificate of formation received from the Secretary of State’s Office, or the assumed name certificate provided by the county clerk’s office, satisfies as the “general business license” requirement that exists within other states.
Many specific business activities require permits or licenses. To determine which state-level business license or permit is required for your business activity, please see the 2024-2025 Texas Business Licenses & Permits Guide. It is also important to ensure that all permitting requirements are also met at the local level. You can find out about these requirements by contacting your local county and city government.
Visit the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) website for information about specific federal licenses and permits.
The Business Permits Office can assist businesses in the resolution of outstanding issues or delays experienced in permit applications or reviews.
It is important to safely store your license and permit numbers, and know when they are due for renewal. You may use this useful License and Permit Tracker template to keep your federal, state and local license and permit information and numbers safe and on hand.
If you have specific questions, you may message the Business Permit Office directly.
The Small Business Resource Portal provides a customized list of useful resources to help start or grow a business in Texas.
The Small Business Handbook provides a comprehensive overview of business planning, registration, requirements and financing.
