How to Get a Business License in Idaho

Are you looking to open a small business in Idaho As part of your start-up, you may need to apply for one or more state permits or licenses, or complete one of several types of state registration. Here are some key informational resources and steps to follow.

Idaho Small Business Information

A section on business information is available at the idaho.gov state government website. This section contains information on how to start, relocate, and run a business.

Particularly, the pages on Starting a Business cover topics such as business plans, types of business entities, funding, training, and events.

The Idaho Small Business Development Center offers guidance on how to launch and grow your business.

This website provides information about marketing, financing, and planning your business. You can also find information about training sessions and specialized services, such as assistance with environmental regulations.

The SBDC is part a national network small business development centers.

The U.S. The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), has a Boise district office. The website of the office lists information about upcoming events, resources and news for small business owners.

Idaho Business Licenses and Permits

Idaho Business License Requirements

A license is not required for every Idaho business. Many types of businesses can and must obtain one or more permits or licenses. Some licenses and permits may be required in certain cases. Different state agencies issue different regulatory licenses or permits.

Permits for agriculture are issued and issued by the Department of Agriculture, while permits for the environment are issued and issued by Department of Environmental Quality.

You can find the Regulatory Needs Wizard on the state government website. This will help you determine what licenses or permits your business might need.

Some required business licenses must be issued in addition to the state regulatory licenses. The requirements will vary depending on where you live or work. Each city or county has its own licensing requirements, such as Boise or Idaho Falls.

More information can be found on the websites of the cities and counties where your business will operate. (Some businesses might be exempted from licensing requirements in accordance with federal or state law.

Register Records for Your Form of Business

Some legal business forms, like corporations and limited liability companies, must file records with the state in order to obtain licenses or permits. Corporations, LLCs and other business types must file organizational documents with Idaho Secretary Of State (SOS).

Get a Professional Licensing

Idaho licenses those who are members of one of the many occupations or professions. Many of the occupations and professions that require a license are listed in the Professional Licenses section on the state government website.

You will also find links to state regulatory boards for many of these same occupations. Click on the link to get more information about how to get the professional license you desire.

Marion would like to be a professional geologist. She will need to apply for a license at the Idaho Board of Registration for Professional Geologists, which is located within the state’s Bureau of Occupational Licenses.

You can find more information by clicking the link for Geologists, Board of on the Professional Licenses site.

Register an assumed or fictional business name (Trade name)

Many small businesses do not operate under the name of their owners. They operate under a business name. Some businesses, including LLCs and corporations, may initially register with the state under a single name (sometimes called the registered or actual name or true name).

However, they later choose to go under another name.

This alternative business name can technically be called an assumed name or fictitious business name depending on the location and structure of your business. Idaho law requires businesses operating under an assumed business name to register it with the SOS.

Additional information about state requirements can be found in the Assumed Business Names FAQ section on the SOS website.

Register a Trademark and/or Service Mark

There are different legal definitions of trademarks, trade names, and service marks. But, in general, trademarks, trade names, and service marks are used to identify goods, services, or businesses.

This includes distinguishing products, services, and businesses from possible competitors. The state can register service and trade marks. This is different from federal registration.

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Brian Wilson Writer and Editor
Brian Wilson is the content manager and founder of LLC Radar. Brian grew up in North Texas, just outside of Dallas, and has a bachelor's degree in business from Southern Methodist University. Since graduating from SMU, Brian has gained over 10 years of experience in business writing for several online publications. Brian resides in Plano, Texas and he can be reached by email:   info@llcradar.com Phone: 972-776-4050
  Information provided on this website is for general information and educational purposes only. It is not intended to offer legal advice specific to your business needs. If you need legal advice, you should consult with an attorney. Rankings and reviews are the personal opinions of the authors and/or editors. For questions, while starting a business, we recommend consulting with an attorney or accountant.