Wedding Planner Permit Requirements in Virginia Beach, VA

1. EIN (Employer Identification Number)

   Required if you have employees, operate as an LLC/corporation, or file certain business tax returns. Free from the IRS. Sole proprietors with no employees may use their SSN instead.

   Official government source

   Free·Immediate (online)

   Free

   Immediate (online)

1. Virginia Business License / Sales Tax Registration

   Businesses selling taxable goods in Virginia must register with the Virginia Department of Taxation. Service businesses must obtain a local Business License from the city or county.

   Official government source

   Free (state); varies locally·1–5 business days

   Free (state); varies locally

   1–5 business days

2. General Liability Insurance (Recommended)

   Wedding planners in Virginia are not legally required to carry liability insurance, but most venues require proof of $1M–$2M general liability coverage before allowing a planner to work on-site. Many clients also require it in your contract.

   $400–$1,200/year·Same day (online quotes)

   $400–$1,200/year

   Same day (online quotes)

1. Virginia Beach Business License

   All businesses operating in Virginia Beach must obtain a general Business License from the Virginia Beach City Clerk's Office. Wedding planners operating as sole proprietors, LLCs, or corporations need this license to legally conduct business. Renewal is required annually.

   Official government source

   $25–$100/year·1–3 weeks

   $25–$100/year

   1–3 weeks

2. DBA (Doing Business As) Registration

   If operating under a trade name (e.g., "Perfect Day Events" rather than your legal name), you must file a Fictitious Business Name (DBA) with the City of Virginia Beach. This is required before accepting payments under a business name.

   $15–$50·1–2 weeks

   $15–$50

   1–2 weeks

Official Sources

• City of Virginia Beach — Business Licensing
• Virginia Secretary of State
• IRS — Apply for EIN

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