Business side of detailing

[ConeArrow27]

I have a question. Im about to launch a mobile car detail business (starting with basics and growing as my knowledge grows)

The only think that i have left to get before i start passing cards to family and friends is the business license.

Would it be harmful to my business if i launch if to family and friends then get the business license with the money i make from the first few details? Or is it best to wait till i can afford the license first?

[VP Mark]

How much is the license? In IL it costs like $10 to register a DBA.

Register your business first, you will go through friends and family quickly and will need to be legit before you know it.

[OCD Detailing]

I have a question. Im about to launch a mobile car detail business (starting with basics and growing as my knowledge grows)

The only think that i have left to get before i start passing cards to family and friends is the business license.

Would it be harmful to my business if i launch if to family and friends then get the business license with the money i make from the first few details? Or is it best to wait till i can afford the license first?

A business license isn't even required where I live. I did the DBA and have insurance. I just haven't figured out what the license would do. Well I know what it "does". Gives more money to the government, but other than that not sure what it does for a detailing business. We are mobile only. Your city may be different.

I could see it being important if we had to show some sort of training or that we were insured. But as far as I know all it requires in exchanging money for a piece of paper. I could be wrong.

[ScubaCougr]

Not critical, IMO, but can help set you apart from the $59 Craigslist "Pros".

You could also launch to Friends and Family, asking them to volunteer a token amount to cover supplies as you practice your technique, get your time down and gather a bunch of nice photos to show your future clients.

That gives you time to decide on the business license (which often lets the taxman know you exist too. . .)

[thebamboo23]

pitch your services to your friends and family

Many of them will say no

Go ahead and start... It'll open your eyes faster

[Pureshine]

Before you even get started learn the business side first! This will save you money and time in the future.