How to Get a Trade License (Shop Act)
At a glance
Cost
Free - Rs 5,000
Timeline
1-15 working days
Difficulty
Easy
A shop or commercial establishment registration under your state's Shops and Establishments Actis often what people mean by a "trade license" for local retail and office businesses. In Maharashtra this certificate is commonly called Gumasta. It proves that your premises are registered for commercial use under state labour and shops rules.
Every physical commercial establishment is generally required to register within about 30 days of starting operations (exact period is state-specific). Most states now offer online application through their labour or municipal portals.
Why do you need a trade license?
Key takeaway
This registration is routinely asked for when you apply for GST registration, open a current bank account, obtain FSSAI or other licences, get Udyam (MSME) registration, or participate in government tenders. Keeping it in order avoids delays in those processes.
Rules Vary by State
The law, fees, forms, and the name of the certificate differ by state. Always confirm the latest process on your state's official labour, municipal, or single-window portal — not only generic national listings.
Typical Government Fees (Indicative)
Fees change with notifications; treat these as orientation only and verify on your state portal:
- Maharashtra: Free for <10 employees
- Delhi: roughly Rs 100-500
- Karnataka: roughly Rs 250-1,000
- Tamil Nadu: roughly Rs 100-500
- Uttar Pradesh: roughly Rs 50-200
What documents do you need for a trade license?
Shop / Establishment Registration Checklist
- PAN of the business or proprietor
- Aadhaar of the proprietor / partners / authorised signatory
- Proof of business address
- Rent agreement or ownership documents for the premises
- Passport-size photographs as required by the form
- Partnership deed or certificate of incorporation, if applicable
Step-by-Step: Where to Apply
- 1
Find your state portal
Find your state's Shops and Establishments / labour portal; use services.india.gov.in to locate the link, then apply on the state site.
- 2
Create an account and fill the form
Enter name, address, headcount, hours, and proprietor/entity details to match your proofs.
- 3
Upload documents and pay fees
Upload PAN, ID/address, premises, and entity docs; pay the fee for your state and category.
- 4
Submit and download certificate
Download or collect the certificate (e.g. Maharashtra Gumasta) and retain copies for bank, GST, and other filings.
Online First
Most states have moved to online registration. If your municipality also issues a local trade licence for certain activities, check whether you need both that and Shops Act registration.
Official Resources
- National Government Services (services.india.gov.in) — Gateway to find state services including shop and establishment registration
- Your state's official labour, employment, or municipal portal for Shops and Establishments / Gumasta / trade licence (search from the state government site)
Frequently Asked Questions
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