North Carolina has no single generic business license that will ensure compliance with all requirements. Some business may be subject to several state requirements while others may not be subject to any.

There are over 700 regulatory, state-issued and occupational licenses and permits. In addition, a local license may be required for your business.

Business Link North Carolina (BLNC) is an economic development partnership with the NC Department of Commerce which provides a free service for anyone seeking to start a small business in North Carolina. BLNC offers one-on-one phone consultations to people interested in starting a business in North Carolina, including figuring out what licenses and permits they may need.

You can contact BLNC at: 1-800-228-8443 or online at https://edpnc.com/start-or-grow-a-business/start-a-business/

If you are starting a business that might require an occupational license, contact your occupational board. Click here for a directory of all occupational boards in North Carolina and their contact information.