DoorWorthy

Who needs a trade name registration (DBA) in Ohio?

Issued by Ohio Secretary of State, at step 1 of 6 in the opening sequence: set up the business.

Every kind of business in Ohio

The Ohio table lists this for every kind of business.

A registered trade name is exclusive statewide; a fictitious name report ($39) only records a name without exclusivity. Register before the name goes on the sign.

Checked Oct 21, 2026 against the agency’s page.

Step 1 of 6: Set up the business

  1. Set up the business
  2. Register for tax
  3. Approve the space
  4. Get the permits for your kind of business
  5. Alcohol permits
  6. Before the first hire

Issued by Ohio Secretary of State.

Sources and dates

Secretary of State trade name registration form and fee schedule. Checked against the agency’s page on the date shown; cities add their own fees.

Questions about opening here.