License Overview 

The rental or sale of vehicles requires a Limited Business License for vehicle rental or sales unless combined with another more regulated license such as Motor Vehicle Repair. 

Related Licneses  

• A commercial garage license is required for any building or location where four or more vehicles are parked for a fee.
• The repair of vehicles requires a motor vehicle repair license.
• The storage of any towed vehicles requires a tow storage lot license.

Required Documents 

• Documents required to identify the business depend on the business legal entity type. For more information, see the Required Documents page.
• Driveway Release Letter from CDOT for any driveways leading from the public way to the premises
• Floor plan

Licnese Application Steps 

• Submit initial business information in person or online
• Receive zoning approval from the City
• Complete and submit a full license application
• Make payment for the license
• Receive license once all requirements are met

For more information on license application steps, see the Business License Application Steps webpage.

cost

$250 License Fee

How to Apply 

In person: Visit the Small Business Center Visit Us webpage for wait times, location, and hours of operation.

Online: Visit the online business license application system.

renewal requirements

A Limited Business License for vehicle rental or sales is issued for a period of two years and must be renewed prior to expiration. For renewal information, see the Renewal page.

resources

For questions, call 312-74-GOBIZ (744-6249) or 312.744.1944, or email businesslicense@cityofchicago.org