HomeBiz|No License Needed
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41 Home Businesses You Can Start Without a License in District of Columbia

These occupations don't require a state-issued occupational license in District of Columbia. You still need basic business registration (LLC or sole prop), but you can skip the licensing fees, training requirements, and exams.

41 license-free · 61 require a license · LLC cost: $99

No License

41

License Required

61

LLC Cost

$99

Sales Tax

6%

Other

Construction and Home Services

Locksmith
No license

Median

$35.81/hr

Annual

$74,470

Full guide →

Median

$34.27/hr

Annual

$71,270

Full guide →

Median

$22.84/hr

Annual

$47,510

Full guide →

Health

Median

$31.28/hr

Annual

$65,060

Full guide →
Optician
No license

Median

$28.42/hr

Annual

$59,110

Full guide →

Median

$27.50/hr

Annual

$57,210

Full guide →

Median

$22.16/hr

Annual

$46,100

Full guide →

Median

$21.96/hr

Annual

$45,670

Full guide →

Entertainment and Hospitality

Animals, Agriculture, and Outdoors

Personal Care Services

Shampooer
No license

Median

$17.46/hr

Annual

$36,320

Full guide →

Transportation and Machinery

Education

What You Still Need (Even Without a License)

Business Registration

Form an LLC ($99 in District of Columbia) or register as a sole proprietor. An LLC protects your personal assets.

EIN (Tax ID)

Free from IRS.gov. Required for opening a business bank account and filing taxes. Takes 5 minutes online.

Home Occupation Permit

Most cities/counties require a permit to run a business from home. Usually $0-150. Check your local zoning office.

Business Insurance

General liability insurance runs $15-40/month for home businesses. Protects you from lawsuits and property damage claims.

Data: Institute for Justice License to Work 3. BLS OEWS May 2024 (wage data). "No license" means no state-issued occupational license — local permits and general business registration may still apply.