Nevada business license: cost, requirements, and how to get one

If you're starting a business in Nevada, you'll likely need a state business license, along with any licenses required by your city, county, or industry. Nevada's state license costs $200 per year for most business types and $500 for corporations. You'll need to renew it on an annual basis. Here's a closer look at Nevada's business licensing requirements, along with annual costs and how to apply. For more licensing requirements across the country, see our guide to business licenses by state. 

Does Nevada require a business license?

Yes, Nevada requires a business license to conduct business in the state. In fact, Nevada is one of the few states with a true statewide business license. It's issued by the Secretary of State and is required before you can conduct business, unless you have a specific exemption. 

You may also need a license from your county or city, as well as an occupational license if your trade requires it. Keep in mind that the Nevada state license is not the same as registering a business entity, such as an LLC or corporation. 

Entity registration establishes your business's legal structure, while a business license lets you conduct business under state requirements. Even if you're a sole proprietor who hasn't registered your business with the Secretary of State, you may still be required to obtain a Nevada business license to operate. 

Who needs a Nevada state business license?

Most people conducting business in Nevada need a state business license. This typically includes:

• LLCs, including single-member LLCs 
• Corporation
• Sole proprietors
• Partnerships 
• Out-of-state companies doing business in Nevada
• Home-based businesses 

However, there are a few exemptions. These entities may not need a Nevada state business license: 

• Tax-exempt nonprofit organizations formed under the Nevada nonprofit statute
• Corporations sole 
• Governmental entities 

Nevada also offers a home-based business exemption if you operate from home and your net earnings fall below two-thirds of the state's average annual wage. You can claim this exemption by filing the state's Declaration of Eligibility for Exemption.

How much is a business license in Nevada?

A state business license in Nevada costs $200 per year for most entities and $500 per year for corporations. You pay this fee to the Secretary of State when you file for the license and again at each annual renewal. 

This fee is separate from any entity formation, local business license, occupational license, or tax permit fees you might need to pay. This table breaks down some standard fees you may need to start an LLC in Nevada: 

Corporations have a higher state business license fee of $500. Their initial and annual list fees can also vary based on factors like authorized stock.

How to get a Nevada business license in 5 steps

You can apply for a Nevada state business license online through ORION, the Nevada Secretary of State's business portal. Here's how: 

1. Choose your business structure: You'll need to register your entity if you're operating as an LLC or corporation. If you're a sole proprietor, you can usually apply for a business license without forming a separate entity, but you might need to register a fictitious firm name, if applicable.
2. Get an employer identification number (EIN): Depending on your business, you might need an EIN for tax registration or hiring employees. You can apply for an EIN for free through the IRS.
3. Apply for your state business license: Next you can apply and pay for your business license through ORION. LLCs and corporations typically file their initial list and business license application together.
4. Register for taxes: You might need to register with the Nevada Department of Taxation for a sales tax permit or employer tax accounts.
5. Get your local business license: You may also need to apply for a license from the city or county where your business operates. Certain trades require occupational licenses. 

Online applications for a Nevada business are typically processed within a few business days. 

Do you also need a county or city business license in Nevada?

Yes, most Nevada businesses need a county or city business license in addition to the state business license. For example, Clark County, Las Vegas, Henderson, North Las Vegas, Reno, Sparks, and Washoe County all license businesses within their limits. Fees, zoning laws, and home occupation permit requirements are set locally. 

When it's time to apply, you'll need to identify the jurisdiction where your business is located. For example, some properties with a Las Vegas mailing address are actually in unincorporated Clark County. Those businesses may need a Clark County license rather than a City of Las Vegas license. 

To get started, you can use the Southern Nevada Regional Business License Launch Page if you're in the Las Vegas area. You can also consult the Nevada Business Resource Hub for a directory of local licensing offices.

Which Nevada businesses need an occupational license?

Some businesses need an occupational license because of the services they provide. Some examples include: 

• Contractors: Contractors of every trade need a license from the Nevada State Contractors Board. 
• Cosmetologists and barbers: You may need a professional license through the state board. 
• Real estate professionals: Real estate agents and brokers must get their license through the Nevada Real Estate Division.
• Alcohol and gaming businesses: You'll need approval through the Department of Taxation and the Gaming Control Board. 
• Health and legal professionals: Professionals must meet the licensing requirements of their respective state boards.

Your requirements will depend on the services you provide. For instance, a landscaping or cleaning business may not need an occupational license on top of the state and local license unless its work crosses into licensed contracting services, such as irrigation or pest control. 

Do Uber, Lyft, and gig drivers need a Nevada business license?

Yes, Nevada requires rideshare drivers and other independent gig workers to get a state business license. If you're driving for Uber, Lyft, or a similar service, you're conducting business as a sole proprietor and therefore need a state license. In fact, the rideshare platform may check your business license as part of the hiring process. 

The standard Nevada state business license fee is $200 per year, and most drivers, especially those who drive full time, won't qualify for an exemption. You may also need a local license, which costs an additional fee. Clark County, for example, requires rideshare and delivery drivers to get a county license, which costs $25 per year plus a $45 application fee for new applicants.

How to renew a Nevada business license

You must renew your Nevada business license annually by the last day of the anniversary month. LLCs and corporations usually renew their license as part of their annual list filing through ORION, Nevada's online portal. 

Sole proprietors can file a standalone renewal. Missing your renewal deadline could result in late fees and loss of good standing. You may eventually have your business license revoked, which would mean you're no longer authorized to operate your business in Nevada. 

Along with renewing your state license, you'll also need to renew any county or city licenses on their own schedules and continue filing tax returns with the Department of Taxation. 

How long does it take to get a Nevada business license?

Your state license can typically be issued within a few business days when you file online. County and city licenses may take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks, depending on zoning, inspections, or other processes. Occupational licenses can take even longer, often weeks to months, since you may need to study for and pass an exam to get approved. 

Why licensing matters for financing and business credit

Getting the right licenses for your business helps you comply with the law and establish your business as legitimate. It can also come into play when you apply for financing, since lenders and business credit bureaus may ask for proof of registration and licensing. Once you've got your licensing in order, you can focus on establishing business credit and exploring business loans as needed. Nav is not a lender or a credit bureau. Credit information is provided by third-party sources.

Business license guides for other states

If you are operating in multiple states or exploring licensing requirements elsewhere, check out our guides for California, Florida, Georgia, New York, Texas, and Washington.

The bottom line

Nearly every business in Nevada needs a state business license, which renews on an annual basis. On top of that, you'll also need a local business license from your city or county, along with any license that your industry may require. Budget for the annual fees from day one, and mark your renewal deadline in your calendar. Once your business is registered and licensed, Nav can help you build business credit and explore financing to help your business grow. 

Frequently asked questions