District of Columbia business license lookup & entity search
The official places to search registered businesses and verify licenses in District of Columbia. Entity records live with the DC Department of Licensing and Consumer Protection (CorpOnline); license verification runs through the licensing agencies below. We link to the official portals only, so what you see is the state's own record.
Statewide general business license in District of Columbia:Required. Full requirements, agency, and renewal timing in the District of Columbia business license guide.
Official District of Columbia lookups
Business entity search
DC Department of Licensing and Consumer Protection (CorpOnline)
Registered organizations in the District with status and registered agent, via the Corporations Division's CorpOnline system.
Open the official entity search ↗License verification
Basic Business License services
DC's Basic Business License (BBL): categories, applications, and verification.
Open the official lookup ↗How to verify a District of Columbia business end to end
- Search the exact legal name (or registration number) in the entity search and confirm the status shows active or in good standing.
- Match the registered name against the name on the contract or invoice; a different trade name should trace back to the same registered entity.
- Verify any trade or professional license in the licensing agency's own lookup, including status and expiration, not just that a number exists.
- For storefront or location-based work, confirm the local business license with the city or county clerk; it will not appear in statewide searches.
Getting licensed in District of Columbia yourself?
District of Columbia license requirements
What District of Columbia actually requires: registrations, permits, agencies, and renewals.
Apply in District of Columbia
Hand the mapping and filings to our licensing team and start the application.
Do I need a license?
A short assessment that turns your footprint into a personalized checklist.
Nearby in the directory: Delaware · Florida · Illinois · All states
Registry links point to official government portals and open in a new tab. Portals occasionally move; if a link lands on the agency's home page, use its search or licensing menu. Informational, not legal advice.