To operate a business in Jefferson County, Alabama, you need two licenses: a state Business Privilege License (obtained from the Jefferson County Revenue Commissioner) and a local Jefferson County license. If your business is located within Birmingham city limits, you will also need a City of Birmingham business license. Licenses must be renewed annually by October 1.
Business license requirements in Jefferson County
Alabama requires every business operating in the state to hold a Business Privilege License. This license is administered at the county level — even though it is a state requirement. In Jefferson County, you obtain the license from the Jefferson County Revenue Commissioner's office.
In addition to the state privilege license, businesses within city limits need a separate municipal business license from the city where they operate. Businesses outside city limits only need the county license.
| Office | Jefferson County Revenue Commissioner |
| Address | 716 Richard Arrington Jr. Blvd N, Birmingham, AL 35203 |
| Phone | (205) 325-5500 |
| Hours | Mon–Fri 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| License fee | Fees vary by business classification and gross receipts; typically $15–$200+. |
| Renewal deadline | October 1 |
How to get a business license in Jefferson County
- Determine your business classification — license fees are based on business type and gross receipts. Common categories include retail, wholesale, service, and professional.
- Gather required documents — bring your business name, physical address, federal EIN, description of business activities, and estimated gross receipts.
- Visit or contact the Revenue Commissioner's office — apply in person at the address listed above, or check whether online applications are available at the county's website.
- Pay the license fee — fees are based on your business type and gross receipts. Fees vary by business classification and gross receipts; typically $15–$200+.
- Display your license — Alabama law requires you to display your business privilege license at your place of business.
Jefferson County is Alabama's most populous county and includes Birmingham, Bessemer, Hoover, Vestavia Hills, and dozens of other municipalities. Each city within Jefferson County has its own business license requirement in addition to the county license.
Do I also need a city business license?
If your business operates within Birmingham city limits, yes — you need both the county license and a City of Birmingham business license. The city license is obtained separately from the city's revenue or business license department. Businesses outside city limits only need the county license.
Do I need an LLC to get a business license?
No — sole proprietors, partnerships, LLCs, and corporations all need a business license. However, if you're operating as a sole proprietor and haven't formed an LLC yet, consider doing so. An Alabama LLC provides personal liability protection that a sole proprietorship doesn't, and the $200 filing cost is often worth it.