“Registering” a business can mean several different things. If you operate a business in the Los Angeles, California area, there may be various licenses, permits, registrations, and certifications you need, including:

1. Local business license (aka business tax registration certificate)

Most cities and counties in California require all local businesses to get a “business license” also sometimes known as a “business tax registration certificate.” See our Guide to Business Licenses in the Los Angeles area.

2. “Incorporating” or registering your entity

If you want to form a business entity such as an LLC or corporation, you will need to register with the California Secretary of State. See our Guide to Business Entities.

3. Seller’s permit

If you are selling any goods, you will need a seller’s permit from the California Department of Tax and Fee Administration (CDTFA) and to collect sales tax.

4. Brick and mortar permits

For businesses with a physical location, you may need to get a “zoning” permit to perform your business activities at that location. Check with the Los Angeles City Planning Department.

5. DBA or “Fictitious Business Name Statement“

If you are doing business as other than your own name or your registered entity’s name. See our Guide to the DBA for more.

6. Registering as an employer

If you have employees, you will need to register with the California Employment Development Department (EDD). See our Guide to Hiring for Your Business.

7. Tax ID/EIN or Employer Identification Number

This is separate from registering as an employer with the state. You would get an EIN from the IRS, regardless of whether you have employees or not. It is the Tax ID of the business.

8. Registering your professional or business activities

You may also need to register or get a license for your professional or business activities, such as practicing architecture or medicine, working as a building contractor, or much more. See our Guide to Professional Licenses for more.

9. Optional certifications

There may also be various optional certifications you can obtain, such as a “Green Business Certification.”

Update on Registering with FinCEN

As of March 21, 2025, U.S. businesses are not required to register with FinCEN. Previously, most small businesses in the U.S. were required to register with the federal agency FinCEN (Financial Crimes Enforcement Network), part of the U.S. Treasury Department, to report who owns the business.

Further Resources

See our Guide to the Law for Business Owners in Los Angeles