Arizona doesn't require a generic statewide "business license," but most businesses still need at least one license — usually a state Transaction Privilege Tax license, a city license, and possibly a specialty license. Here's how to sort out which apply to you.
If you sell goods or certain taxable services in Arizona, you need a TPT license from the Arizona Department of Revenue ($12 + $0–$50/jurisdiction). It's the closest thing AZ has to a sales-tax permit.
Most Arizona cities require a separate local business license. Phoenix, Tucson, Mesa, and Scottsdale all have their own ($25–$200/year typically). Always check the city where you'll be operating.
Doctors, lawyers, contractors, real estate agents, cosmetologists, and many others need state-specific professional licenses. The Arizona Department of Insurance, Registrar of Contractors, and various boards each handle their own.
Restaurants need health permits. Liquor sales need a state liquor license. Day cares need DHS licensing. Always check your specific industry — federal, state, and local rules can stack.
Even working from home, you typically need the same TPT and city licenses as a brick-and-mortar. HOAs and zoning rules may add extra restrictions on top.
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