Also referred to as a business privilege license. A permit issued by government agencies (state or local) that allows individuals or companies to conduct business within the government’s geographical jurisdiction. It is the authorization to start a business issued by the local government. A single business may require multiple licenses that are issued by multiple government departments and agencies. Business licenses vary between countries, states, and local municipalities. There are often many licenses, registrations and certifications required to conduct a business in a single location.