This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For questions specific to your situation, consult a licensed attorney or your tax professional.
Canceling your DC license is straightforward and can be done online two ways.
Method 1: Cancel Through mybusiness.dc.gov (Preferred)
To use this method, you need an active DC MyBusiness account with the license already linked to it. If your license isn't in your account, transferring it first typically takes 1–5 business days* — in that case, Method 2 is likely the faster and easier option.
Step 1 — Log in Go to mybusiness.dc.gov and log in to your account.
Step 2 — Navigate to BBL After logging in, click on BBL. The My Basic Business Licenses page will load.
Step 3 — Find your license If your license is already showing on the page, skip to Step 4. If not, go to the Filter search box and type your business license number into the filter field. Confirm the license that populates is the correct one.
Step 4 — Open Manage License In the upper right corner of the license record, click Manage License. A menu of options will appear.
Step 5 — Cancel the license Click Cancel License — the green button. A confirmation page will appear stating the license has been canceled.
Step 6 — Print the confirmation Print the confirmation page for your records. Before wrapping up, see the After You Cancel section below to make sure you've completed all required steps.
Method 2: Cancel via the DLCP Online Form (Fallback)
If you don't have a DC MyBusiness account or your license isn't linked to it, use this method instead. Submit a cancellation request directly through the DLCP BBL Cancellation Request Form. This is typically completed within 1–3 business days.*
After You Cancel — Close Your Business Tax Account
Canceling your license is only one part. You also need to close your Business Tax Account with the D.C. Office of Tax and Revenue (OTR). Consult your CPA or tax preparer for guidance, or contact the Business Tax Division directly at 202-727-4829.
Important: Submit your cancellation before your license expires. Failure to do so may result in late fees or other penalties.
Questions? Contact the Business Licensing Division of the Department of Licensing and Consumer Protection (DLCP) at 202-671-4500 or dlcpcs@dc.gov.
*Processing times can take several business days and may vary based on DLCP's current workload. If your license expiration is approaching, we recommend submitting your cancellation request as early as possible.