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Look up a business license

Use an official business license directory or account lookup. Check the type and area of license covered.

Before you start

Start with where your business is located and where it will operate. A county license may apply only to unincorporated areas or specific activities; cities can have their own requirements.
Some county offices provide guidance or referrals and do not issue a general business license. Read the entry before choosing an application.
A business license or tax certificate, an FBN/DBA filing, business entity registration and a professional license serve different purposes. Zoning, health and other activity permits may also apply. Business stormwater registration is a separate local programme where required.
Check the license period, renewal date and rules for changes in ownership or location. A renewal may not cover a move or a new owner. Fees and application steps depend on the license category.

2 guides with reviewed service links · Los Angeles

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Highlighted counties have a reviewed service guide matching this selection. An agency may serve only a city or part of a county.

California58 counties

County directory Reviewed service guides available

Map for browsing; agency service areas may differ.

Map source

U.S. Census boundaries via U.S. Atlas · 2017 edition, simplified for display.

County government · Los Angeles

Tax Collector

Business licensing

Find county instructions for an existing business-license searchOfficial instructions

Official county referral for looking up an existing county business license. Read the page for search instructions and scope.

Service area: Records of county licenses for specified activities in unincorporated areas and Malibu, Santa Clarita or Westlake Village. Area details & sources

Source checked October 16, 2026

Los Angeles County official website · Los Angeles County — business licensing discovery (opens in a new tab)

Reviewed business licensing instructions