Indiana Business Licenses — What Your LLC May Need

Indiana does not have a general state-level business license. However, specific industries and municipalities require licenses or permits. This page covers what Indiana LLC owners should check. For all compliance, see our after-formation guide. For formation, see how to form an Indiana LLC.

Indiana's Licensing Landscape

State level: No general business license. Specific industries regulated through Indiana Professional Licensing Agency (PLA) at pla.in.gov.

Municipal level: Some cities require business licenses or permits:

• Indianapolis/Marion County — Business licenses for certain activities through IndyGov
• Fort Wayne — Business registration through the city
• Evansville — Business licensing for specific industries
• Bloomington — Rental licenses, food service permits

County level: Assumed Business Name (DBA) filed at county recorder ($20/county)

State-Licensed Professions (PLA)

Indiana Professional Licensing Agency (pla.in.gov) regulates:

• Real estate agents and brokers
• Contractors (certain trades)
• Healthcare professionals
• CPAs and accountants
• Engineers
• Architects
• Cosmetologists
• Insurance agents
• Home inspectors
• Plumbers

Sales Tax License (Retail Merchant Certificate)

If selling taxable goods, register at intime.dor.in.gov for a Retail Merchant Certificate. Required before making your first taxable sale.

How to Determine Your Needs

1. Check your industry against PLA (pla.in.gov)
2. Check your city/county for local requirements
3. Determine if you sell taxable goods (need Retail Merchant Certificate)
4. Check for industry-specific permits (food, liquor, construction)

FAQ

Does Indiana require a general business license?

No state-level general license exists. Check your city and industry for specific requirements.

What about home-based businesses?

Most Indiana cities allow home-based LLCs without special permits, though some have zoning restrictions. Check your municipality.