In Texas, LLCs and corporations file with the Secretary of State. Sole proprietors and partnerships using an assumed name generally file with the county clerk. Sales tax permits come from the Texas Comptroller. Licensing depends on your occupation: many trades are handled by the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR), and mobile food vendors need a Texas DSHS license from July 1, 2026. Cities add zoning, certificates of occupancy and permits.
Texas research checklist
| Step | Where |
|---|---|
| Form an entity | Texas Secretary of State |
| Assumed name (DBA) | Secretary of State for entities; county clerk for sole proprietors and partnerships |
| Sales and use tax permit | Texas Comptroller |
| Occupational licenses | TDLR or the relevant state board |
| Mobile food vendors (from July 1, 2026) | Texas DSHS |
| Certificate of occupancy, zoning, signs | Your city |
City editions
Other Texas cities
Austin businesses follow the same state steps. The local steps are the city’s development services, zoning and certificate of occupancy, plus Travis County for assumed names. Check the official city and county sites.
Worked example
Marcus forms a plumbing LLC in Austin. He files a certificate of formation with the Texas Secretary of State, gets an EIN, and confirms with the state agency that licenses plumbers that he holds the right license to operate a plumbing business. He checks with the Comptroller whether his services require a sales tax permit, since some services and materials may be taxable. In Austin, he checks city rules for his office location and the permit process for jobs. He tracks license renewals, the Comptroller's franchise tax report and local permits in one calendar.
Licensing beyond TDLR
Some Texas occupations are licensed by separate boards rather than TDLR, such as medical and dental professions. Search your occupation on official state sites to find the right board.
Getting found across Texas
Texas markets differ widely; focus your website and Google profile on the cities you truly serve.
Common questions
Is this legal advice?
No. It is a research checklist with official agencies. Confirm requirements, fees and timelines with each office.
How often is this checked?
Sources were checked on October 6, 2026. Rules change, so verify before you file.
Does Texas have a state business license?
Texas has no general statewide business license; licensing depends on your occupation and city.
Do Texas LLCs file franchise tax reports?
Most Texas entities file franchise tax reports with the Comptroller; check current requirements.
Do I need a sales tax permit for services?
Some services are taxable in Texas; ask the Comptroller or check its guidance for your type of work.
Where do I file an assumed name for an LLC?
Entities file assumed names with the Secretary of State; sole proprietors and partnerships usually file with the county clerk.
Sources
- Texas Secretary of State: Business organizations
- Texas Comptroller: Sales and use tax
- Texas Comptroller: Permits and registrations
- Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation
- Texas DSHS: Mobile food vendors
Sources checked October 6, 2026. Rules, fees and forms change; confirm details with the agency or provider before you act. This guide is general information, not legal, tax or insurance advice.
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