Business license is a specific document that allows running business and operating in specific business field. Generally, the license is issued by the government, agency or governmental institutions. The necessity for obtaining a license before starting particular business usually is defined by law.

Running business without a license, when the law requires obtaining the license, is illegal and the government inspector may impose a fine, require stopping activities and obtaining the necessary license. Licensing usually refers to specifically regulated business field, such as banking, trading with alcohol and cigarettes, oil business, providing taxi services, security services, etc.