When you start a business in West Virginia, it’s an exciting venture, but you need to do more than just open your doors and invite customers in. One of the first things you’ll want to do is make sure you get the proper business licenses. There are a lot of variables, and what you need to do can vary quite a bit depending on where you plan to do business in the state or whether you plan to operate multiple locations. In some cases, you may need certification from the state, city, and county. In other locations, it might be a different mix. Costs will vary, too.
So, we’re here to help you understand the costs and requirements for your business license and answer the question: how much is a business license in West Virginia?
The long answer is that your business license cost varies from state to state, county to county and even industry to industry. But in short: almost every business needs a Business Registration Certificate from the West Virginia State Tax Department. This costs $30 and is required before you can legally operate in the state. But that’s not all you need. You may also need local city or county licenses and, in some industries, professional or federal permits.
Do you need a business license in West Virginia?
There is no general, statewide West Virginia business license. Instead, businesses must apply for a Business Registration Certificate through the State Tax Department. This certificate is mandatory for almost all types of businesses, whether you’re operating anything from a one-person online shop to a large brick-and-mortar retail store. Without it, you cannot legally conduct business or collect sales tax.
Many cities and counties in West Virginia have their own business license requirements. For example, if you’re operating in Charleston or Huntington, you’ll likely need a separate city business license in addition to the state registration. County-level licenses may also apply depending on your line of work, especially for contractors or food vendors.
West Virginia tries to make the process easier to navigate with the WV One Stop Business Portal for applying or renewing registration, but you’ll still need to check city, county, and local resources, too.
What happens if you don’t get a license?
If you don’t register your business, it’s trouble. You can get fined, hit with penalties and back taxes, or even be forced to close up shop. That’s at the state level. Local governments may come after you as well.
Having the proper registration certificate may also prevent you from opening up a business bank account, applying for financing, or legally signing contracts with vendors. It can also open you up to liability in case something goes wrong.
No worries though, we’ll break down what you need and what it costs to be legal.
How much does a business license cost in West Virginia?
The West Virginia business license cost depends on whether you’re applying for state, local, or professional licensing. Here’s a quick breakdown of the costs:
- State registration certificate: $30 flat fee, one-time, nonrefundable.
- Local business licenses: Usually between $20 and $150 annually, though some locations may charge more.
- Professional or industry-specific licenses: Ranges from $50 to several hundred dollars, depending on your occupation.
- Renewals: Some licenses renew annually, while others require renewals every 2 to 3 years, with application fees each time.
You should also know that you may need separate business registration certificates for each location in West Virginia, requiring you to pay the fee for each location.
There are also a few specifics that can impact what you’ll have to pay. Registration or licensing in bigger cities typically costs more than in rural counties. Certain professions, like contractors or healthcare providers, will have to pay more to get professionally licensed. And, corporations or Limited Liability Companies (LLCs) may pay higher fees than if you’re a sole proprietor working on your own.
Keep in mind that there are some exceptions for certain businesses, such as nonprofit organizations, in some cases.
Types of business licenses in West Virginia and their cost
West Virginia has multiple layers of licensing depending on your business type. Here’s an overview.
City business license
Most cities require you to get a license if you operate within city limits, whether you are a large corporation are applying for a small business license in West Virginia.
- Typical cost range: $20 to $150 annually.
- Fees may vary depending on the type of business you have, the number of people you employ, or your gross receipts.
For example, the West Virginia business license cost in Charleston is based on business type, while smaller towns may charge a flat rate.
County business license
Counties may also require licensing, especially for industries like contracting.
- Typical cost range: $25 to $100 annually.
State-level permits
Depending on the industry you’re in, you may also be required to apply for state permits that go beyond the $30 Business Registration Certificate. For example:
- Professional licenses: Doctors, lawyers, accountants, contractors, and barbers are regulated by state boards, with fees often between $50 and $300.
- Seller’s permit: Businesses selling taxable goods use their Business Registration Certificate as their sales tax permit.
Federal licenses
If you’re in a federally regulated industry like firearms, alcohol, or broadcasting, there are likely also federal licenses. Costs can range from under $100 to several thousand (or significantly higher).
Example cost table for West Virginia business licenses
Here’s a summary that breaks down the typical costs you might incur.
| Type of License/Permit | Issued By | Cost | Renewal |
| Business Registration Certificate | WV State Tax Dept. | $30 | None (valid until business closes, changes names, ownerships, or locations) |
| City business license | Local city you operate in | $20–$150 | Annual |
| County business license | County clerk’s office, although not all counties require separate licenses or fees | $25–$100 | Annual |
| Professional license (e.g., barber, contractor) | WV licensing boards with fees varying widely depending on occupation. | $50–$300+ | 1–3 years |
| Federal license (e.g., alcohol sales) | Federal agencies | $100–$1,000+ | Annual or set terms |
One note here: While the state does not require you to renew your business license each year, you are required to file an annual report with the Secretary of State by June 30th of each year. This updates your company records and makes sure your business maintains its “good standing” status. There’s also a $25 filing fee for this annual report. The fees can be waived in some circumstances, such as if you are a veteran-owned business in your first 4 years in operation.
The fees above are ranges, and the licensing requirements do vary by industry. For example:
- Restaurants and food service: $30 state registration, $50–$150 city license, and additional health department permits (cost varies).
- Contractors: $30 state registration, $50–$200 county license, and professional licensing from the Contractor Licensing Board with applications starting at $90.
- Retail shops: $30 state registration, $20–$100 city or county license, plus sales tax collection.
- Healthcare providers: Professional licensing $100–$300+ from state boards in addition to the $30 state registration.
- Home-based or online business: Still requires the $30 registration certificate and, depending on location, a city license.
Renewing your business license in West Virginia
The Business Registration Certificate does not need renewal unless you close or change your business structure. However, most local and professional licenses require regular renewals.
- Annual renewals: City and county licenses usually cost $20–$150 each year.
- Professional licenses: Fees are typically $50–$300 for renewals every 1–3 years.
- Penalties: Late renewals may result in fines or suspension of your license.
You will want to track your renewal deadlines early in the year to avoid penalties.
Conclusion
At a minimum, starting a business in West Virginia requires the $30 Business Registration Certificate. For business owners forming an LLC, understanding how to start an LLC in West Virginia can help clarify how this registration fits into the broader setup process, including any city, county, or professional licenses you may need depending on your industry. Most business owners can expect to spend between $50 and $500 total.
FAQ
Yes. Even if you’re home-based or selling online, you still need the $30 Business Registration Certificate. Some cities may also require a license for home businesses.
You can apply for the Business Registration Certificate through the WV State Tax Department online, the WV One Stop Business Portal, or by mail. Local licenses are issued through your city or county clerk’s office.
Processing typically takes 1–2 weeks. Online applications are sometimes processed more quickly than those that are mailed.
Yes. Forming an LLC is separate from licensing. You still need the Business Registration Certificate and any local and professional licenses.
No. An LLC is a legal structure, while a license (registration certificate) is authorization to operate.
You may face fines, tax penalties, and business closure until you comply.
No. The Business Registration Certificate doubles as your sales tax permit.