You will have to determine which business licenses or permits you need to obtain. Many activities are regulated by the government and they require you to have a current license or permit to operate. Follow this link and find out which business activities are regulated by the federal and state government:
http://www.business.gov/register/licenses-and-permits/

After you have determined the types of licenses and permits that you need to obtain, on the same page it allows you to input location and business types to search for the state and local licenses that may be required of you. This is only a reference for you because some of the licenses and permits are not needed. For example, if you are running a fast food place, liquor license is not needed.

If your business activities require a federal license, you will have to visit the specific department for more information on how to apply for those licenses. For example, if you are involved in transporting animals, you will have to obtain the animal health permit from the department of agriculture.

Many small businesses need to obtain license and permits from state government. State license and permits are handled at the county level. To apply for the appropriate license, you will have to visit your county's website for local field offices that you need to visit or contact.

First call them during their normal office hours for inquiries. Tell the appropriate government personnel about the type of business that you are running, the license and permits you think you need to obtain and ask him / her for assistance. They will tell you what you need to do, documents, training and fees that you need for the specific license.

You will have to follow up with visits to the actual office with the appropriate documentation, training records and fees to obtain the license. Many license and permits require renewal; it is very important to write into your business calendar when you need to renew your license and permits.