Business Licensing Reference Guides - Transportation Businesses
The process to register a business in PA varies based on several factors. To ensure you complete the basic steps to register your business, you should create a Business Registration Checklist. After answering a series of questions, you will be provided a step-by-step guide. Complete each step and you will be on your way to operating.
Beyond the basic business registration steps as determined by the checklist, there is no general business license that all Pennsylvania businesses are required to obtain. Instead, there might be a specific license based on your business activity. Continue reading below for specific requirements associated with your business activity.
A transportation business should consider the following items:
- Commercial Drivers License (CDL): You may need to obtain a CDL and/or other vehicle/driver certifications/registrations to legally operate in Pennsylvania. You can find more information by reviewing the PA Department of Transportation’s commercial driver webpage.
- Motor Carrier License: You will need to obtain a license through the PA Public Utility Commission. You can find more information by reviewing the PA Public Utility Commission’s motor carrier forms webpage.
- Bus Registration Plates: If you plan to operate as a bus, school vehicle, limousine, or taxi, review the PA Department of Transportation’s fact sheet related to the proper registration plate.
- Miscellaneous Dealer: If you plan to perform repair and towing, vehicle salvage, transporter services, financier or collector-repossessor services, or the transportation of watercraft, review the Department of Transportation’s requirements for a miscellaneous dealer.
- Interstate Haulers: If you will be transporting goods and/or people across state lines, or handling hazardous materials, you will need to be registered with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration to obtain a USDOT Number. You can find more information about this requirement by reviewing the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s USDOT number webpage.
Besides the items mentioned above, there are no other requirements for a transportation business.
After completing any requirements as determined by reviewing the items above, your business should be ready to begin operating.
If you are interested in learning more about growing your business online, review the Business One-Stop Shop’s eCommerce webpage.
Revised 3/15/2025