A business license number is issued when a business has successfully obtained a license to operate in certain municipalities. It simply acts as a reference number.
Cities and towns have their own laws and regulations regarding the operation of businesses within their geographical limits, and businesses are generally required to register with the local government and obtain a license to operate by demonstrating they are compliant with all rules and regulations. Some of these municipalities may attach a number to the business license for bookkeeping purposes and as a quick means of verifying over the phone or Internet that a business is licensed.
