How to Register a Business Name (Sole Proprietor)
Registering your business name with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) is the very first legal step for any sole proprietor in the Philippines. Whether you are opening a sari-sari store, launching an online shop, or starting a freelance service, DTI registration gives your business a legal identity, protects your business name, and allows you to secure other permits such as a Barangay Clearance, Mayor's Permit, and BIR registration. This guide covers everything you need to know -- from online registration through the Business Name Registration System (BNRS) to walk-in processing at DTI offices and Negosyo Centers.
DTI Business Name Registration at a Glance
Cost
P200 - P2,000 depending on the scope of registration (Barangay, City/Municipality, Regional, or National), plus P30 Documentary Stamp Tax.
Timeline
Same day if done online through BNRS (certificate available immediately after payment). Walk-in processing typically takes 1-2 hours at DTI offices or Negosyo Centers.
Key Fact
DTI business name registration is valid for 5 years from the date of registration and is renewable. Only sole proprietors register with DTI -- partnerships and corporations register with the SEC.
Warning: Operating Without DTI Registration is Illegal
Under Republic Act No. 3883, as amended (the Business Name Law), operating a business without registering your business name with the DTI is a violation punishable by fines and/or imprisonment. Unregistered businesses may be subject to closure orders, denied access to government support programs, and unable to open business bank accounts. Local government units (LGUs) will also require your DTI Certificate of Business Name Registration before issuing a Barangay Clearance or Mayor's Permit. Always register first before conducting any business activity.
What is BNRS?
The Business Name Registration System (BNRS) is the DTI's online platform that allows entrepreneurs to register, renew, and manage their business names entirely online. Launched to make business registration faster, more convenient, and more accessible, BNRS is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Through BNRS, you can search for business name availability, complete your application form, pay registration fees using various electronic payment methods, and download or print your Certificate of Business Name Registration -- all without leaving your home.
The BNRS portal can be accessed at bnrs.dti.gov.ph. You will need a valid email address to create an account. The system also integrates with the Philippine Business Databank, which means your registration is automatically reflected in government records once completed.
Scope of Registration
The scope of your DTI business name registration determines the geographic area where you have the exclusive right to use your registered business name. Choose the scope based on where you plan to operate your business. A wider scope provides broader name protection but costs more.
Barangay
Your business name is protected only within your specific barangay. Ideal for small neighborhood businesses like sari-sari stores, carinderias, and local service providers that operate in a single barangay.
City/Municipality
Your business name is protected within your entire city or municipality. Suitable for businesses that serve customers across multiple barangays within the same city or municipality.
Regional
Your business name is protected within an entire administrative region (e.g., NCR, Region IV-A). Best for businesses that operate across multiple cities or provinces within the same region.
National
Your business name is protected throughout the entire Philippines. Recommended for businesses that sell online, deliver nationwide, or plan to expand to multiple regions in the future.
Online Registration (BNRS)
The fastest and most convenient way to register your business name is through the BNRS online portal. You can complete the entire process from your computer or smartphone. Here are the step-by-step instructions:
Go to bnrs.dti.gov.ph and Create an Account
Visit bnrs.dti.gov.ph and click "Register" to create a new account. You will need to provide your full name, email address, mobile number, and a valid government-issued ID number. Verify your email address by clicking the confirmation link sent to your inbox. Once verified, log in to your BNRS account to begin the registration process.
Search Your Desired Business Name for Availability
Use the BNRS name search feature to check if your desired business name is available. The system will compare your proposed name against all registered business names in the database. If the name is already taken or too similar to an existing registration, you will be prompted to choose a different name. You can search as many times as needed until you find an available name. The system may also suggest alternative names based on your input.
Fill Out the Application Form
Complete the online application form with the following details: your chosen business name, business type or line of business (e.g., retail, food service, online selling), scope of registration (Barangay, City/Municipality, Regional, or National), complete business address, and your personal information as the sole proprietor. Make sure all information is accurate, as errors may cause delays or require re-application.
Choose Your Payment Method
BNRS accepts multiple payment channels for your convenience. You can pay through GCash, Maya (formerly PayMaya), credit or debit card (Visa/Mastercard), online bank transfer, or over-the-counter payments at partner outlets such as 7-Eleven, Bayad Center, and other payment centers. Select your preferred payment method and follow the on-screen instructions to complete the transaction.
Pay the Registration Fee + Documentary Stamp Tax
Pay the applicable registration fee based on your chosen scope (P200 for Barangay, P500 for City/Municipality, P1,000 for Regional, or P2,000 for National) plus the mandatory P30 Documentary Stamp Tax (DST). A small convenience fee of approximately P10-P20 may apply depending on your chosen payment method. The system will display the total amount before you confirm payment.
Download/Print Your Certificate of Business Name Registration
Once payment is confirmed, your Certificate of Business Name Registration will be generated automatically. You can download it as a PDF file or print it directly from the BNRS portal. A copy will also be sent to your registered email address. This certificate serves as proof that your business name is officially registered with the DTI. Keep it safe -- you will need it when applying for a Barangay Clearance, Mayor's Permit, and BIR registration.
Walk-in Registration
If you prefer to register in person, you can visit any DTI provincial or regional office or a Negosyo Center. There are over 900 Negosyo Centers located in cities and municipalities across the Philippines, making business registration accessible even in remote areas. Follow these steps:
Go to the Nearest DTI Office or Negosyo Center
Locate the nearest DTI provincial office, DTI regional office, or Negosyo Center in your area. Most Negosyo Centers are situated inside city halls, municipal halls, or public markets. You can find the complete directory of Negosyo Centers on the DTI website at www.dti.gov.ph. Bring a valid government-issued ID and be prepared to fill out forms on-site.
Fill Out the Application Form and Present a Valid ID
Request an application form from the DTI staff or download it beforehand from the DTI website. Fill out all required fields, including your proposed business name, line of business, desired scope of registration, business address, and personal details. Present your original valid government-issued ID (such as a Philippine passport, driver's license, PhilSys National ID, SSS ID, or voter's ID) along with a photocopy.
Staff Will Check Name Availability
The DTI staff will search the BNRS database to verify that your desired business name is available and does not conflict with any existing registered business name. If the name is already taken or too similar, the staff will advise you to choose a different name. You may prepare two or three alternative names in advance to avoid delays in case your first choice is unavailable.
Pay the Registration Fee at the Cashier
Once your business name is confirmed as available, proceed to the cashier window to pay the registration fee (based on scope) plus the P30 Documentary Stamp Tax. Payment is usually accepted in cash. Some DTI offices and Negosyo Centers may also accept GCash or other digital payments. Keep your official receipt as proof of payment.
Receive Your Certificate of Business Name Registration
After payment, the DTI staff will process your application and print your Certificate of Business Name Registration on the spot. The entire walk-in process typically takes only 1-2 hours, including waiting time. Your certificate is valid for 5 years. Make sure to keep the original certificate in a safe place and have photocopies ready for your subsequent permit applications.
Requirements for DTI Business Name Registration
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Valid Government-Issued ID | Original and photocopy. Accepted IDs include Philippine passport, driver's license, PhilSys National ID, SSS ID, GSIS ID, PRC ID, voter's ID, postal ID, or any other government-issued ID with photo and signature. For online registration, you will need to enter the ID number. |
| Completed Application Form | For walk-in: available at the DTI office or Negosyo Center, or downloadable from the DTI website. For online: the application form is filled out directly on the BNRS portal. The form requires your proposed business name, line of business, scope, business address, and personal information. |
| Registration Fee | Based on the scope of registration: P200 (Barangay), P500 (City/Municipality), P1,000 (Regional), or P2,000 (National). The fee covers 5 years of business name protection within the chosen scope. |
| Documentary Stamp Tax (DST) | A fixed amount of P30, required for all business name registrations regardless of scope. This is a national tax collected by the DTI on behalf of the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR). |
| Special Permits (if applicable) | Certain types of businesses may require additional clearances or permits before DTI registration. For example, food businesses may need an FDA (Food and Drug Administration) license, pharmacies need a PRC license, and businesses dealing in regulated products may need clearance from the relevant government agency. |
Naming Guidelines
The DTI has specific rules on what business names are allowed and what are prohibited. Understanding these guidelines will help you choose a name that will be approved on your first try, saving you time and effort.
Allowed
- Unique names that are not identical or confusingly similar to an already registered business name within the same scope
- Filipino or English names -- you may use either language or a combination of both
- Owner's name as part of the business name (e.g., "Maria's Bakeshop" or "Juan dela Cruz Trading")
- Descriptive names that indicate the nature of your business (e.g., "Sunshine Laundry Services")
- Creative or coined words that do not violate any naming restrictions
Not Allowed
- Names identical or similar to an existing registered business name within the same scope of registration
- Government agency names or names that suggest government affiliation (e.g., "DTI Trading" or "NBI Security Services")
- Obscene or offensive names that are vulgar, immoral, or contrary to public policy
- Misleading names that misrepresent the business type -- for example, using "Inc.", "Corporation", or "Company" for a sole proprietorship
- Trademarked names that infringe on existing intellectual property rights registered with the Intellectual Property Office (IPO)
Fee Computation
Sample Computation: City/Municipal Scope Registration
If registering online through BNRS, a convenience fee of approximately P10-P20 may be added depending on the payment method chosen (e.g., GCash, Maya, credit card). The total online cost for City/Municipal scope would be approximately P540-P550.
Complete Example: Maria's Online Boutique Registration
Maria is a 28-year-old entrepreneur from Makati City who wants to start selling clothes and accessories online through social media platforms such as Facebook and Instagram. Since she ships products to customers all over the Philippines, she decides to register her business with a National scope. Here is how she completes the process:
Choose the Business Name and Scope
Maria decides on the business name "Maria's Online Boutique" and selects National scope (P2,000) since she plans to sell nationwide via social media and online marketplaces. She also prepares two alternative names in case her first choice is taken: "Maria's Style Hub" and "Maria's Fashion Corner."
Register on BNRS
Maria visits bnrs.dti.gov.ph, creates an account using her email, and verifies her identity. She searches for "Maria's Online Boutique" and confirms that the name is available at the National scope. She fills out the application form with her business details: line of business is "Retail Sale of Clothing and Accessories," business address is her home address in Makati City, and scope is National.
Pay via GCash
Maria selects GCash as her payment method. The breakdown is: Registration fee (National) = P2,000 + Documentary Stamp Tax = P30 + GCash convenience fee = P15. Total amount paid: P2,045. The payment is processed instantly.
Receive Certificate Instantly
After payment confirmation, Maria's Certificate of Business Name Registration is generated automatically on the BNRS portal. She downloads the PDF and also receives a copy via email. The certificate shows her registered business name, scope (National), registration date, and expiration date (5 years from registration).
Next Steps After DTI Registration
With her DTI certificate in hand, Maria proceeds to complete the other requirements to fully legalize her business: (1) Barangay Clearance from her barangay hall in Makati, (2) Mayor's Permit (Business Permit) from the Makati City Hall, and (3) BIR Registration (Form 1901) to get her TIN and Authority to Print receipts. She also plans to register with SSS, PhilHealth, and Pag-IBIG as a self-employed individual.
Maria's Registration Summary
Total time spent: approximately 30 minutes online. Certificate received instantly after payment.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to register a business name?
The cost depends on the scope of registration: P200 for Barangay scope, P500 for City/Municipality scope, P1,000 for Regional scope, and P2,000 for National scope. In addition, there is a mandatory P30 Documentary Stamp Tax (DST) for all registrations. If you register online through BNRS, a convenience fee of P10-P20 may also apply depending on your payment method. For example, a National scope registration via GCash costs approximately P2,045 in total.
Can I register online?
Yes. The DTI's Business Name Registration System (BNRS) at bnrs.dti.gov.ph allows you to register your business name entirely online, 24/7. You can search for name availability, fill out the application, pay electronically (via GCash, Maya, credit card, or bank transfer), and download your certificate immediately after payment. The entire online process can be completed in as little as 15-30 minutes.
How long is the DTI registration valid?
DTI business name registration is valid for 5 years from the date of registration. After 5 years, you must renew your registration to continue using the business name legally. You can renew through BNRS online or at any DTI office or Negosyo Center. It is recommended to renew at least 30 days before the expiration date to avoid any lapse in registration.
What if my desired business name is taken?
If your desired business name is already registered by another person within the same scope, you will need to choose a different name. The BNRS system will automatically flag names that are identical or confusingly similar to existing registrations. You can try modifying the name slightly (e.g., adding your surname or a descriptive word), or choose a completely different name. It is a good practice to prepare 2-3 alternative names before starting the registration process. Note that a name taken at the National scope is protected nationwide, but a name taken at the Barangay scope is only protected within that specific barangay.
Do I need DTI registration if I'm a freelancer?
If you are a freelancer operating under your own legal name (e.g., "Juan dela Cruz, Graphic Design Services"), DTI registration is generally not required. However, if you use a business name that is different from your legal name (e.g., "Creative Pixel Studio"), you are required to register that business name with the DTI. Additionally, even if you operate under your own name, DTI registration can be beneficial as it establishes your business identity and is often required when applying for business permits or opening a business bank account.
Can a foreign national register a sole proprietorship?
Generally, no. Under Philippine law, sole proprietorships are reserved for Filipino citizens. Foreign nationals cannot register a sole proprietorship with the DTI. However, foreign nationals may invest in partnerships (registered with the SEC) or corporations (also registered with the SEC), subject to the restrictions of the Foreign Investments Act and the Negative List. Foreigners married to Filipino citizens are still subject to the same restrictions regarding sole proprietorships.
What happens if I don't renew my registration?
If you fail to renew your DTI business name registration before or after its expiration, your business name protection lapses. This means another person can register the same business name, and you lose the exclusive right to use it. Your business will also be considered unregistered, which can affect your Barangay Clearance, Mayor's Permit, and BIR registration. You may renew an expired registration, but if the name has already been taken by someone else during the lapse, you will need to choose a new name. It is strongly recommended to renew at least 30 days before expiration.
Can I change my business name after registration?
You cannot simply edit or modify a registered business name. If you want to use a different business name, you must register a new business name with the DTI (and pay the registration fee again). Your old registration will remain valid until it expires, but you can choose not to renew it. If you only need to update your business address, contact information, or line of business, you can do so through the BNRS portal or at a DTI office without needing to register a new business name.
Important Reminders
- DTI is only for sole proprietors: Partnerships and corporations must register with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), not the DTI. If you are starting a business with partners or incorporating a company, visit the SEC website at www.sec.gov.ph.
- Register before operating: Always complete your DTI business name registration before conducting any business activity. Operating without registration is a violation of the Business Name Law and can result in fines, penalties, and closure of your business.
- BNRS is available 24/7: The online BNRS portal at bnrs.dti.gov.ph is accessible anytime, any day -- including weekends and holidays. You do not need to visit a DTI office unless you prefer the walk-in option.
- Keep your certificate safe for Mayor's Permit and BIR: Your DTI Certificate of Business Name Registration is a primary requirement for obtaining a Barangay Clearance, Mayor's Permit (Business Permit), and BIR Certificate of Registration. Without it, you cannot proceed with these applications. Make several photocopies and store the original in a secure location.
- Renew at least 30 days before expiration: To avoid a lapse in registration and the risk of losing your business name, file for renewal at least 30 days before the 5-year expiration date. Renewal can be done online through BNRS or at any DTI office or Negosyo Center.
- Update DTI if you change your business address: If you relocate your business to a different address, you must update your registration details with the DTI through the BNRS portal or by visiting a DTI office. Failure to update may cause issues when renewing your business permit.
- Documentary Stamp Tax is always P30: Regardless of the scope of registration (Barangay, City/Municipality, Regional, or National), the Documentary Stamp Tax is a fixed P30. This tax is collected by the DTI and remitted to the BIR.
- One registration per business name: If you operate multiple businesses with different names, you need a separate DTI registration for each business name. Each registration has its own certificate, fees, and expiration date.
Need Help?
Contact DTI
- DTI Main Office: 361 Sen. Gil J. Puyat Avenue, Makati City
- Hotline: 1-DTI (1-384)
- Trunkline: (02) 8751-0384
- Email: ask@dti.gov.ph
- Website: www.dti.gov.ph
- BNRS Portal: bnrs.dti.gov.ph
- Office Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Disclaimer
This guide is provided for general informational purposes only. The requirements, steps, fees, and procedures mentioned here may vary depending on the DTI you visit. We recommend visiting your nearest DTI first to confirm the specific requirements and process before preparing your documents.