City and Town Business Licensing

• The city of Denver alone issues approximately 90 different business licenses, from those for professions to licenses for the sale of liquor and firearms as well as for local sales tax. Contact your local town or city government office for specific licensing information, requirements and instructions. Licenses are typically fee-based and must be renewed periodically.
  
  

State Tax Licensing

• The Colorado Department of Revenue issues state tax licenses, which require you to collect sales tax on applicable sales and remit the proceeds to the state. This tax license is in addition to any local sales tax licenses you may be required to obtain.
  
  

State Professional Licensing

• Certain professions, such as doctors, lawyers, accountants, teachers and other professionals, require licensing from the state in addition to town or city licenses that may be required. Handled by the State of Colorado's Occupational/Industry License office, professions requiring licensing can be referenced on the office's website.
  
  

Business Registration

• Businesses must be registered with the Colorado secretary of state before beginning operation and obtaining operational licenses, which are not truly licenses but required for other licensing applications. Corporations, partnerships, limited-liability companies and sole proprietors operating under a fictitious name must register with the secretary of state upon starting the business.