Starting a successful car wash takes more than knowing how to make a car look new again. Starting a new business requires completing several steps, and obtaining licensing is an important one as it may impact your ability to operate legally.

The question, “what business license do I need to start my car wash” is a common one, but in reality, your business will likely need multiple licenses, permits, and registrations from federal, state, and local agencies.

Let’s look at which licenses to consider when starting a car wash.

Related: Guide to starting a car wash

What Licenses Do You Need to Start a Car wash?

Environmental Regulations

Car washes will need to be aware of environmental regulations due to wastewater discharge, as failing to neutralize the contaminated water can lead to polluted groundwater. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) oversees environmental concerns, however, most states and even many cities also have regulations as well.

It’s important to note that it is challenging to obtain licensing for car washes at the local level because of the wastewater discharge and water usage concerns.

In addition to wastewater regulations, there are several general requirements for starting a business.  While business licensing requirements vary by location, here are a few of the common licenses and permits that a car wash may need:

Entity Formation

When starting a business, the legal entity needs to be selected. A legal entity refers to how a business is organized to operate. There are four main types of entities; sole proprietorship, partnership, corporation, and Limited Liability Company (LLC).

Each type of entity has its own pros and cons, such as liability protection, costs, and administrative requirements.

Related: What is the difference between a sole proprietorship, partnership, Corporation, or LLC?

Business Name Registration

While not necessarily a business license, it’s worth noting that to use a name for a business, many states require the registration of that name. Making matters more complicated, the process of name registration is different by state and the type of business entity.

For instance, sole proprietorships and partnerships generally need to register a business name (also referred to as a Doing Business As, DBA, fictitious name, assumed name, or trade name registration).

Learn: How to register a DBA

Corporations and LLCs register are a little easier because the name is registered when the entity is formed with the state.

General Business License or Permit

Depending on where the business is located, a general business license or permit may be required. A few states require a business license; however, they are more commonly found at the city level.

Learn more: Business license requirements by state

Federal Employer Identification Number

The Federal Employer Identification Number (also referred to as a FEIN, Employer Identification Number, EIN, or Federal Tax ID Number) is a unique nine-digit number that identifies a business with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS).

Any business with employees or one that forms as a partnership, Corporation, and in many cases, an LLC will need to get an EIN.

Sole proprietors and single-owner LLCs without employees can instead use the owner’s social security number.

Learn: How to get an EIN 

Sales Tax Permit or Business Number

In order to sell products and/or offer certain services, a state sales tax permit (also referred to as a business tax registration or business tax ID number) may be needed. This permit creates an account number with the state’s Department of Revenue (or similarly named state taxing agency) to collect and remit sales tax.

Most states don’t require businesses to collect sales tax on services, such as for a car wash, but this is important to check before starting the business.

Learn: How to get a sales tax permit in each state

Certificate of Occupancy

In most communities, a car wash business will likely need to secure a Certificate of Occupancy (CO) before operating in a physical location, like a garage.  This certificate is typically obtained from the city and/or the county and allows a business to occupy and operate from a building. Before the certificate is issued, the building will need to comply with zoning regulations, building codes, and any other local requirements.

If the car wash will be operated as a mobile car wash business, a home occupation permit may be required if the equipment is stored there.

Before purchasing or leasing a location for your car wash, be sure to check with the local zoning department first to ensure the business can legally operate out of the chosen location.

The process of identifying all of the licenses and permits necessary to start a car wash may feel confusing and overwhelming. It is critical to do this right the first time, otherwise, your business may be temporarily shut down until all licenses are obtained.