Business License by State

Business License by State › Rhode Island

Rhode Island business license (2026)

Depends on the business. The Rhode Island Secretary of State Business Assistant says: “Some businesses are required to obtain a license from the State of Rhode Island prior to opening.”

  • State page read October 21, 2026
  • Quoted from the state

Rhode Island at a glance

State rule
Depends on the business
Next step
Look up your industry’s license, and ask your city or county about a local one.
Forming an LLC
$150 with the Rhode Island Secretary of State
Best overall in Rhode Island

Mainstay Filing

Our rating: 4.9 out of 5

$199 / year, same at renewal

  • LLC formation, prepared and filed
  • Registered agent, all year
  • EIN application (with an SSN or ITIN)
  • Annual report filed every year it is due where the state requires one
  • Compliance reminders and stored documents

Price from the Mainstay Filing pricing and FAQ pages, checked October 21, 2026. State fees are passed through at cost and shown before you pay.

Questions

Does Rhode Island require a business license?

Depends on the business. The Rhode Island Secretary of State Business Assistant says: “Some businesses are required to obtain a license from the State of Rhode Island prior to opening.”

Who do I contact in Rhode Island?

Rhode Island Secretary of State Business Assistant (page linked below), your city or county clerk, and the Rhode Island Secretary of State for forming the company.

Is a Rhode Island LLC the same as a license?

No. Forming the LLC is a filing with the Rhode Island Secretary of State, which charges $150. A license, where one applies, is a separate step.

Sources