Photography Business Permit Requirements in Reno, NV

1. EIN (Employer Identification Number)

   Required if you have employees or operate as an LLC/corporation. Also useful for opening a business bank account and separating personal and business finances. Free from the IRS.

   Official government source

   Free·Immediate (online application)

   Free

   Immediate (online application)

2. FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate (Drone Photography)

   Required if you offer commercial aerial photography using drones (unmanned aircraft systems). Must pass the FAA Aeronautical Knowledge Test at an approved testing center. Operating commercially without this certificate can result in significant fines. This is a federal requirement enforced by the FAA regardless of state.

   Official government source

   $175 (exam fee)·2–4 weeks to study and schedule exam

   $175 (exam fee)

   2–4 weeks to study and schedule exam

1. Nevada — No State Photography License Required

   Nevada does not require a state-issued license or certification to offer paid photography services. Photography is an unregulated profession at the state level — there is no state board or licensing agency that certifies photographers in Nevada. Every Nevada business still needs the annual State Business License from the Secretary of State (NRS 76.100, $200/year, or a qualifying exemption), and photographers selling prints or other tangible goods need a Nevada sales tax permit from the Department of Taxation.

   Official government source

   N/A·N/A

   N/A

   N/A

2. Nevada Department of Taxation — Sales Tax Permit

   Nevada requires photographers to collect sales tax on tangible goods sold (prints, albums). Digital deliveries may be exempt. The combined rate in Reno (Washoe County) is 8.265%. Register with the Nevada Department of Taxation.

   Official government source

   $15 per business location, if a permit is required (form TAX-F006)·Immediate to 1 week (online)

   $15 per business location, if a permit is required (form TAX-F006)

   Immediate to 1 week (online)

1. Reno — General Business License / Occupational Tax Certificate

   Most businesses operating within Reno must obtain a general business or occupational tax certificate from the city or county. This applies to photography studios and freelance photographers with a commercial location. Home-based photographers may also need a Home Occupation Permit to conduct client sessions or operate a studio from their residence. Check with the Washoe County licensing office for specific requirements.

   Official government source

   $50–$400/year depending on city fee schedule and gross revenues·1–3 weeks

   $50–$400/year depending on city fee schedule and gross revenues

   1–3 weeks

2. Reno — Commercial Photography / Film Permit (Public Locations)

   If you conduct paid photography shoots in public spaces (parks, streets, city-owned plazas, or other public property) in Reno, you may need a commercial photography or film permit. These permits are required to manage use of public spaces for commercial purposes and to ensure public safety. Requirements vary by location, crew size, and duration. Contact the Reno film office, parks department, or city clerk for specifics.

   Official government source

   $25–$500 depending on location, duration, and crew size·3–10 business days

   $25–$500 depending on location, duration, and crew size

   3–10 business days

Official Sources

• Reno Business Licensing
• Nevada Department of Taxation — Sales Tax Permit
• FAA — Become a Drone Pilot (Part 107)

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