State & Federal Licensing

State Licensing

Many licensing regulations should be considered when establishing a business or practicing certain regulated occupations in Georgia. Contact the Secretary of State's office for a listing of all occupations that require state licensing. Before applying, you would be well advised to check the current licensing regulations through the office of the Secretary of State, the county and the city. For information, contact:

GA Secretary of State
Licensing Boards Division
166 Pryor Street SW
Atlanta, GA 30303
404-656-3900

Certain regulated professions may have additional requirements in the process of incorporating. For the best advice, see legal counsel.

Federal Licensing

Most new small businesses most likely will not require any type of federal licensing to conduct business, unless you will be engaged in one of the following activities:

  • Rendering investment advice
  • Making alcohol products
  • Making tobacco products
  • Preparing meat products
  • Making or dealing in firearms

You would need a federal permit also to start large operations such as a television station, radio station, common carrier or producer of drugs or biological products. The aforementioned businesses are all heavily governmentally regulated. For information on federal licensing for these types of businesses, contact:

U.S. Dept. of Alcohol, Tobacco & Firearms
2600 Century Parkway Suite 3430
Atlanta GA 30345
404-679-5130

U.S. Federal Drug Administration
60 Eighth St.
Atlanta, GA 30309
404-347-4265

U.S. Federal Communications Commission
3575 Kroger Blvd.
Duluth, GA 30096
888-225-5322



NOTICE: The information contained within this publication is given for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal or professional advice or assistance. Laws and information contained herein are from multiple sources and are subject to frequent changes. While this publication will be updated annually to capture those changes, you should consult a licensed professional when dealing with legal and financial matters regarding your specific situation. You should also verify the other information contained herein to be sure that you have the most current and accurate information.