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Content Overview

The Texas BBE 1 form is a crucial document for business entities seeking to obtain a real estate broker license in Texas. This form is specifically designed for corporations, limited liability companies (LLCs), and partnerships that provide brokerage services. To successfully navigate the application process, a designated officer, manager, or partner must be appointed to act on behalf of the business entity. This individual must hold an active Texas real estate broker license, as their credentials are essential for the approval of the application. Additionally, if the designated broker does not own at least 10% of the entity, the business must maintain errors and omissions (E&O) insurance. The application process also requires a current "Certificate of Good Standing," along with various fees that must be submitted at the time of filing. Notably, the form mandates that background checks, including fingerprinting, be completed to ensure the integrity and trustworthiness of the designated broker. The Texas Real Estate Commission (TREC) emphasizes the importance of accuracy and completeness in the application, as any deficiencies could lead to delays or disapproval. Understanding the requirements and preparing the necessary documentation is key to successfully obtaining a broker license for your business entity in Texas.

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BBE-1 (11/2011)
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TEXAS REAL ESTATE COMMISSION
P.O. Box 12188
Austin, Texas 78711-2188
www.trec.texas.gov (512) 936-3000
APPLICATION FOR BROKER LICENSE BY A BUSINESS ENTITY
(PLEASE READ ALL INFORMATION CAREFULLY)
IF THE BUSINESS ENTITY HELD A TEXAS BROKER LICENSE DURING THE PRECEDING SIX MONTHS, CONTACT
THE COMMISSION FOR THE CORRECT APPLICATION FORM.
DO NOT USE THIS FORM
The Real Estate License Act requires a business entity (corporation, LLC or partnership) to be licensed as a real estate broker if the
business entity provides brokerage services. The attached form may be used by a business entity in applying for a Texas Real Estate
Broker license.
A business entity chartered in a state other than Texas may obtain a Texas broker license, but to be eligible to apply it must be
licensed as a real
estate broker by the state of its incorporation or organization or by the state in which it is permitted to engage in
real estate brokerage as a foreign business entity. The business entity must procure from the agency which administers such laws in
the other state a certificate recognizing the standing of the business entity in that state and file the certificate as part of its Texas
application. A business entity which is not licensed in the state of its incorporation or organization must also apply for a Texas license
upon proof that such state does not license business entities as brokers and that the business entity is lawfully engaged in the
practice of real estate brokerage in the other state, as well as meet all other requirements to apply for a Texas license.
A corporation is required to designate one of its officers to act for it. An LLC is required to designate a manager to act for it. A
general partner of a partnership is required to be designated to act for it. For the application to be approved and a license issued,
the designated officer, manager or partner must be individually licensed as an active Texas real estate broker (designated broker)
and will have the authority to act as a real estate agent on behalf of the business entity.
1.
An application by a business entity cannot be approved unless its designated broker is individually licensed as an active Texas
real estate broker. If the designated broker does not own at least 10% of the entity, the entity must maintain E&O insurance in
the amount of $1 million. Attach BE COI-0, Certificate of Insurance for a Broker Business Entity to the application if applicable. If
the designated broker owns 10% or more of the entity, please provide proof of ownership, such as a resolution, minutes or
other official record of the business entity.
2. FEES REQUIRED WITH A REAL ESTATE BROKER APPLICATION BY A BUSINESS ENTITY.
ALL FEES MUST BE SUBMITTED AT THE TIME OF FILING THE APPLICATION.
ALL REQUIRED FEES MUST BE SUBMITTED WITH THE APPLICATION. AN APPLICATION SUBMITTED WITHOUT THE APPROPRIATE
FEES WILL BE REJECTED AND RETURNED. All fees should be paid byCASHIERS CHECK, PERSONAL CHECK OR MONEY ORDER
payable to the Texas Real Estate Commission. DO NOT PAY WITH CASH.
3.
A current "Certificate of Good Standing" (issued within 21 days prior to the date of this application) must be provided with this
application. This certificate is available from the TEXAS COMPTROLLER OF PUBLIC ACCOUNTS in Austin.
$20.00 Paper filing fee for any application available online.
Recovery Fund Fee (if not previously paid)$10.00
$143.00 TOTAL
Real Estate Research Center at Texas A&M University $20.00
$123.00 TREC Application Fee for LLC
Application Processing Fee as follows:
BBE-1 (11/2011)
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4.
Filing an application authorizes an investigation of the applicant's background. Information revealed in an investigation may be
cause for disapproval of an application even though other requirements for a license are met.
NOTE: An incomplete application will not be returned for completion. If the application is incomplete, a
letter will be mailed requesting that the deficiency be remedied.
5.
Fingerprints for this license will be required from the designated broker of the business entity. An applicant who has not been
previously fingerprinted for TREC must pay a fee to DPS to get fingerprinted and satisfy the statutory requirement for honesty,
trustworthiness and integrity. Each licensee is required by law to have fingerprints on file with the
Department of Public Safety (DPS) for TREC. Fingerprints on file for other agencies will not be accepted. The license will issue
once all licensing requirements are met and TREC receives confirmation from DPS that the applicant's fingerprints are on file. The
applicant will be required to pay a fee for a background check with each renewal. The applicant must present a completed FAST
Pass at the time of fingerprinting. For directions on how to download the FAST pass and make an appointment to get fingerprints
taken go to http://www.trec.texas.gov/fastpass. The digital fingerprinting process may take up to 10 days, so plan accordingly. An
applicant must pay a license application fee AND a fingerprint fee.
PRIVACY NOTICE
In accordance with Chapter 559, Government Code, the following notice about certain information laws and practices is
given.
(1)
With few exceptions, an individual is entitled on request to be informed about theinformation that a state
governmental body collects about the individual.
(2)
Under Sections 552.021 and 552.023 of the Government Code, the individual is entitled to receive and review the
information.
(3)
Under Section 559.004 of the Government Code, the individual is entitled to have the governmental body
correct information about the individual that is incorrect.
NOTE
State law prohibits the agency from renewing a license after a licensee has defaulted on a student loan guaranteed by the Texas
Guaranteed Student Loan Corporation (TG) unless the licensee has entered into a repayment agreement with TG. YOU SHOULD
CONTACT TG BEFORE FILING THIS APPLICATION if you have defaulted on a student loan. A renewal may be declined if this agency has
received information from TG that the applicant has defaulted on a student loan. The Texas Guaranteed Student Loan Corporation
can be contacted at:
Texas Guaranteed Student Loan Corporation
P.O. Box 83100
Round Rock, TX 78683-3100
Telephone: 1-800-252-9743
IF ALL REQUIREMENTS FOR A LICENSE ARE NOT MET WITHIN ONE (1) YEAR OF THE FILING
DATE, THE APPLICATION WILL EXPIRE.
BBE-1 (11/2011)
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File#
2.
Texas Real Estate Commission
P.O. Box 12188
Austin, Texas 78711-2188
(512) 936-3000 www.trec.texas.gov
REAL ESTATE BROKER LICENSE BY A BUSINESS ENTITY
DO NOT WRITE ABOVE THIS LINE
NOTE: ALL INFORMATION MUST BE TYPED OR PRINTED IN INK
This document is available on the TREC website at www.trec.texas.gov
A "Certificate of Good Standing" must accompany the application.
A current "Certificate of Good Standing" dated within 21 days prior to the date of the application must be provided with this
application as evidence that there is no delinquent tax owed the State under Chapter 171 Tax Code. This certificate is
available from the TEXAS COMPTROLLER OF PUBLIC ACCOUNTS. The business entity must designate an officer, manager or
partner to act for it who is licensed as an active Texas real estate broker.
3. Business Address (Fixed Office): STREET ADDRESS MUST BE DESIGNATED BELOW. (A license will not be issued to a P.O.
Box only)
4. Mailing Address and Contact Information (Post Office Box may be used):
1. License Type:
FEE
RECEIPT NUMBER
AMOUNT MONEY TYPE
Application Fee
$143.00
Recovery Fund Fee
$10.00
Paper Filing Fee
$20.00
Corporation
Name of Business Entity:
Limited Liability Company
Number, Street and Apt. No.
Zip CodeStateCity
E-mail Address Phone Number Area Code
FAX Number:
Phone Number Area Code
FAX Number:
Area Code Phone Number
E-mail Address
Phone Number
Area Code Zip CodeState
City
Number, Street and Apt. No.
License # Entity # App#
Partnership
If the answer is YES, you must complete the applicable sections of the Background History Form located
at http://www.trec.texas.gov/pdf/forms/miscellaneous/BackgroundHistory.pdf.
NoYes
Has the business entity been licensed as a real estate broker in a state other than Texas within the last
five (5) years?
6.
EIN#
5. Has the business been licensed in Texas in the last five (5) years?
NoYes
If the answer is "Yes" enter the TREC license number here.
BBE-1 (11/2011)
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Has the business entity or its designated broker ever been placed on parole, probation or community
supervision (also known as deferred adjudication) regardless of whether the case was dismissed or
discharged?
7. Has the business entity or its designated broker ever had a professional or occupational license in this
state or any other state suspended, canceled or revoked, or ever surrendered such a license?
(b)
Has the business entity or its designated broker ever had an application for a professional or
occupational license disapproved or denied in this state or any other state?
(c)
Are there any disciplinary hearings or investigations pending against any professional or occupational
licenses held by the business entity or its designated broker ?
If the answer to (a), (b), or (c) is YES, you must complete the applicable sections of the Background
History Form located at http://www.trec.texas.gov/pdf/forms/miscellaneous/BackgroundHistory.pdf.
8. Are there any unpaid judgments pending against the business entity or its designated broker?
9. Has the business entity or its designated broker ever been convicted of a criminal offense? (Include
all felonies and misdemeanors other than minor traffic tickets.)
(c)
Are there any criminal charges pending against the business entity or its designated broker?
If the answer to (a), (b), or (c) is YES, you must complete the applicable sections of the Background
History Form located at http://www.trec.texas.gov/pdf/forms/miscellaneous/BackgroundHistory.pdf.
10. Has the business entity or its designated broker ever acted, or attempted to act, as a real estate broker or
salesperson or appraiser in this state or in any other state at a time when not properly licensed?
(Include all periods in which you acted either before obtaining a license or after a license may have
expired.)
11.List below the name and address of the Corporation President, the Limited Liability Company Manager or the Managing
Partner.
(b)
NoYes
NoYes
NoYes
Yes No
Yes No
Yes No
Yes No
NoYes
City State Zip Code
If the answer is YES, you must complete the applicable sections of the Background History Form located
at http://www.trec.texas.gov/pdf/forms/miscellaneous/BackgroundHistory.pdf.
If the answer is YES, you must complete the applicable sections of the Background History Form located
at http://www.trec.texas.gov/pdf/forms/miscellaneous/BackgroundHistory.pdf.
(a)
(a)
Name
Number Street Suite No.
12.Business name(s) to be assumed (if any):
The following four (4) questions pertain to the designated broker of the business entity. If the designated broker does
not own at least 10% of the business, attach BE COI-0 to this application.
13. Full Name of the designated broker:
14.
Office held (must be president, vice-president, secretary or treasurer for Corporation or manager for LLC):
BBE-1 (11/2011)
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15. Designated broker's Texas real estate broker license number:
CERTIFICATION
We certify that the information reflected in this application is true and correct to the best of our knowledge and that we are
authorized to execute this application on behalf of the business entity. We further certify that the business entity has complied with
all statutes, rules and regulations required of it to conduct business in this state. We understand that providing answers that are not
true, correct, and complete is grounds for disapproval of this application or revocation of the license. We authorize the Texas Real
Estate Commission to conduct any investigations of the business entity which it deems prudent. We understand that information
revealed in an investigation may be cause for disapproval of the application even though other requirements for a license have been
met. We further understand that all information submitted in conjunction with this application may become a public record. If
granted a license, the business entity will abide by the provisions of The Real Estate License Act and the Rules of the Texas Real
Estate Commission.
We further certify that the business entity will promptly provide to TREC upon request all business formation, ownership and
representative authorization records and changes thereto required to be kept by the business entity by law, including those required
by the Secretary of State and the Texas Comptroller.
WE CERTIFY THAT THE BUSINESS ENTITY WILL NOT ENGAGE IN ANY REAL ESTATE BROKERAGE ACTIVITY UNTIL THE TEXAS REAL
ESTATE COMMISSION LICENSE CERTIFICATE IS IN THE POSSESSION OF THE BUSINESS ENTITY .
Typed or Printed Name of the Designated Broker of
the Business Entity
Signature of the Designated Broker of the Business Entity
Signature of the Corporation President, the Limited Liability Company Manager or the
Managing Partner
Typed or Printed Name of the Corporation
President, the Limited Liability Company Manager
or the Managing Partner
16. Does the designated broker own 10% or more of the business entity?
NoYes
If the answer to question #16 is yes please provide proof of ownership, if no attach BE COI-0.
Date
Date

Form Specifications

Fact Name Fact Details
Application Purpose This form is used by business entities to apply for a Texas Real Estate Broker license.
Designated Broker Requirement The designated broker must be an active Texas real estate broker, and if they own less than 10% of the entity, the entity must maintain E&O insurance.
Fees The total application fee is $143.00, which includes various fees like the TREC Application Fee and Recovery Fund Fee.
Governing Law This form is governed by the Texas Real Estate License Act.

Texas Bbe 1: Usage Guidelines

Filling out the Texas BBE 1 form is a crucial step for business entities seeking a real estate broker license in Texas. Properly completing this application ensures that your business can operate legally within the state. Below are the steps to guide you through the process of filling out the form.

  1. Begin by identifying the type of business entity you are applying for: Corporation, Limited Liability Company (LLC), or Partnership.
  2. Provide the full name of your business entity and its Employer Identification Number (EIN).
  3. Attach a current "Certificate of Good Standing," issued within the last 21 days, to confirm that your business has no outstanding tax obligations.
  4. Enter the fixed office address where your business will operate. Note that a P.O. Box alone is not acceptable.
  5. Fill in the mailing address and contact information, which may include a P.O. Box.
  6. Indicate whether your business has been licensed in Texas in the past five years. If yes, include the TREC license number.
  7. State if your business entity has been licensed as a real estate broker in another state within the last five years. If yes, complete the Background History Form available on the TREC website.
  8. Answer questions regarding any past license suspensions, cancellations, or revocations for your business entity or its designated broker. If applicable, complete the Background History Form.
  9. Disclose any unpaid judgments against your business entity or its designated broker. If yes, complete the Background History Form.
  10. Provide information about any criminal offenses involving your business entity or its designated broker. If applicable, complete the Background History Form.
  11. List the name and address of the Corporation President, LLC Manager, or Managing Partner.
  12. Complete the section regarding the designated broker, including their full name, office held, and Texas real estate broker license number.
  13. Indicate whether the designated broker owns 10% or more of the business entity. If yes, provide proof of ownership; if no, attach the BE COI-0 form.
  14. Certify the accuracy of the information provided by signing the application, along with the designated broker and an authorized representative of the business entity.

After completing the form, ensure that you include all required fees, which must be submitted at the time of filing. Be aware that an incomplete application will not be returned for completion, so double-check your entries before submission.

Your Questions, Answered

What is the Texas BBE 1 form used for?

The Texas BBE 1 form is an application for a broker license by a business entity, such as a corporation, limited liability company (LLC), or partnership. This form must be completed and submitted to the Texas Real Estate Commission (TREC) if the business entity intends to provide real estate brokerage services in Texas. It is important to note that the designated broker of the entity must be an active, individually licensed Texas real estate broker.

What are the requirements for submitting the Texas BBE 1 form?

To submit the Texas BBE 1 form, the business entity must meet several requirements. First, the designated broker must be individually licensed as an active Texas real estate broker. If the designated broker does not own at least 10% of the entity, the business must maintain errors and omissions (E&O) insurance of at least $1 million. Additionally, the application must include a current "Certificate of Good Standing," dated within 21 days prior to submission, and all applicable fees must be paid at the time of filing.

What fees are associated with the Texas BBE 1 application?

The total fees required when submitting the Texas BBE 1 application amount to $143.00, which includes a $123.00 application processing fee, a $20.00 fee for the Real Estate Research Center at Texas A&M University, and a $10.00 Recovery Fund Fee if not previously paid. If the application is submitted on paper rather than online, a $20.00 paper filing fee will also apply. All fees must be submitted at the time of application to avoid rejection.

What happens if the application is incomplete?

If the Texas BBE 1 application is incomplete, it will not be returned for completion. Instead, TREC will mail a letter to the applicant requesting that the deficiencies be remedied. It is crucial to ensure that all required information and documents are included to avoid delays in processing the application.

Are fingerprints required for the designated broker?

Yes, fingerprints are required for the designated broker of the business entity. The designated broker must pay a fee to the Department of Public Safety (DPS) for fingerprinting, which is necessary to meet the statutory requirements for honesty, trustworthiness, and integrity. The applicant must present a completed FAST Pass at the time of fingerprinting. It is essential to plan ahead, as the digital fingerprinting process may take up to 10 days.

Common mistakes

  1. Incomplete Applications: Submitting an application that lacks necessary information can lead to rejection. Ensure all sections are filled out completely.

  2. Missing Fees: Failing to include the required fees will result in the application being returned. Double-check that all fees are submitted at the time of filing.

  3. Incorrect Fee Payment: Payments must be made via cashier's check, personal check, or money order. Cash payments are not accepted, which can delay processing.

  4. Failure to Provide Certificate of Good Standing: A current "Certificate of Good Standing" must be included. This document should be dated within 21 days of the application submission.

  5. Not Designating a Broker: A designated broker must be appointed, and this person must be an active Texas real estate broker. Neglecting this step can lead to disapproval.

  6. Ignoring Background Check Requirements: Applicants must be aware that background checks will be conducted. Any issues revealed may affect approval.

  7. Not Attaching Required Documentation: If the designated broker does not own at least 10% of the entity, attaching the BE COI-0 form is essential. Missing this can result in delays.

  8. Overlooking Fingerprinting: The designated broker must complete fingerprinting for the application. This step is crucial for meeting licensing requirements.

Documents used along the form

When applying for a broker license by a business entity in Texas, several additional forms and documents may be required to ensure compliance with state regulations. Each of these documents serves a specific purpose in the application process, facilitating the review and approval of the business entity's request for licensure.

  • Certificate of Good Standing: This document, issued by the Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts, confirms that the business entity is in good standing and has no outstanding tax obligations. It must be dated within 21 days prior to the application submission.
  • Background History Form: This form is necessary if the business entity or its designated broker has had any professional licenses suspended, revoked, or denied in Texas or any other state. It provides detailed information about any past disciplinary actions.
  • Certificate of Insurance (BE COI-0): If the designated broker does not own at least 10% of the business entity, this certificate must be attached to demonstrate that the entity has the required errors and omissions insurance coverage of $1 million.
  • Proof of Ownership: If the designated broker owns 10% or more of the business entity, documentation such as a resolution or official meeting minutes must be provided to verify ownership.
  • Application Fee Payment: A payment receipt for the application processing fee and any additional fees must be included. This ensures that the application is not rejected due to missing payments.
  • FAST Pass: This document is required for fingerprinting, which is a part of the background check process. The applicant must present a completed FAST Pass at the time of fingerprinting.
  • Fingerprinting Confirmation: After fingerprinting, a confirmation from the Department of Public Safety (DPS) is needed to verify that the applicant's fingerprints are on file, meeting the honesty and integrity requirements.
  • Operating Agreement (for LLCs): This document outlines the management structure and operating procedures of the LLC. It may be required to clarify the roles and responsibilities of the designated broker.
  • Partnership Agreement (for partnerships): Similar to an operating agreement, this document details the terms of the partnership, including the roles of each partner and how decisions are made.
  • Foreign Business Entity Documentation: If the business entity is chartered outside Texas, it must provide documentation proving its licensing status in its home state, along with a certificate recognizing its standing.

These documents play a crucial role in the application process for a Texas broker license by a business entity. Ensuring that all required paperwork is completed and submitted correctly can significantly enhance the likelihood of a smooth approval process.

Similar forms

The Texas BBE 1 form, used for applying for a broker license by a business entity, shares similarities with several other documents in the real estate and business licensing domain. Below is a list of these similar documents, highlighting how they relate to the Texas BBE 1 form.

  • Application for Individual Broker License: This document is required for individuals seeking to obtain a broker license. Like the BBE 1 form, it necessitates proof of prior education and experience in real estate.
  • Application for Salesperson License: Similar to the BBE 1 form, this application is for those looking to enter the real estate field. It requires background information and proof of completed coursework.
  • Certificate of Good Standing: Both the BBE 1 form and this certificate require documentation proving that a business entity is in good standing and compliant with state regulations.
  • Background History Form: This form is necessary for both business entities and individuals applying for licenses. It gathers information on any past disciplinary actions or legal issues.
  • Application for Foreign Business Entity License: For businesses incorporated outside Texas, this application is similar to the BBE 1 form as it requires proof of licensing in the home state and compliance with Texas regulations.
  • Broker Business Entity Insurance Certificate: This document, similar to the BBE 1 form, may be required to demonstrate that a business entity has the necessary errors and omissions insurance to operate legally.
  • Renewal Application for Broker License: Just like the BBE 1 form, this renewal application requires submission of fees, proof of continuing education, and may involve background checks to ensure ongoing compliance.

Dos and Don'ts

When filling out the Texas BBE 1 form, it is crucial to follow specific guidelines to ensure a smooth application process. Here are five things you should and shouldn’t do:

  • Do ensure all information is accurate. Double-check each section for errors or omissions. Inaccurate information can lead to delays or disapproval.
  • Do include the required fees. All fees must be submitted at the time of filing. An application without the correct fees will be rejected.
  • Do provide a current "Certificate of Good Standing." This certificate must be dated within 21 days of your application to demonstrate compliance with state regulations.
  • Do designate an eligible broker. Ensure that the designated broker is licensed as an active Texas real estate broker and meets the ownership requirements.
  • Do plan for fingerprinting. The designated broker must be fingerprinted, and this process can take time, so plan accordingly.
  • Don't submit an incomplete application. Incomplete applications will not be returned for completion. Instead, you will receive a letter requesting the missing information.
  • Don't pay with cash. Payments must be made via cashier's check, personal check, or money order. Cash payments are not accepted.
  • Don't ignore background check requirements. Be aware that any issues revealed in a background check may lead to disapproval of your application.
  • Don't forget to provide proof of ownership. If the designated broker does not own at least 10% of the entity, you must attach the BE COI-0 form.
  • Don't delay in meeting all licensing requirements. If all requirements are not met within one year of filing, the application will expire.

By adhering to these guidelines, you can improve your chances of a successful application for a Texas Real Estate Broker license by a business entity. Remember, thoroughness and attention to detail are key in this process.

Misconceptions

  • Only individuals can apply for a broker license. This is incorrect. Business entities such as corporations, LLCs, and partnerships can also apply for a broker license using the Texas BBE 1 form.
  • A designated broker does not need to be licensed. This is false. The designated broker must be an active Texas real estate broker for the application to be approved.
  • Any officer of the business entity can act as the designated broker. This is misleading. Only specific individuals, such as an officer for a corporation or a manager for an LLC, can be designated to act for the business entity.
  • A Certificate of Good Standing is not required. This is a misconception. A current Certificate of Good Standing, issued within 21 days prior to the application, is mandatory.
  • Fees can be submitted after the application is filed. This is incorrect. All required fees must be submitted at the time of filing the application.
  • Fingerprinting is optional for the designated broker. This is not true. Fingerprints are required for the designated broker, and failure to comply may delay the licensing process.
  • Applications can be completed at any time without a deadline. This is misleading. If all requirements are not met within one year of filing, the application will expire.
  • Past criminal offenses do not affect the application. This is incorrect. Background checks are conducted, and any relevant offenses may lead to disapproval of the application.

Key takeaways

When filling out and using the Texas BBE 1 form for a business entity to apply for a real estate broker license, consider the following key takeaways:

  • Designated Broker Requirement: The designated officer, manager, or partner of the business entity must be an active Texas real estate broker. This individual is responsible for acting on behalf of the entity in real estate transactions.
  • Fees Submission: All required fees must be submitted at the time of filing the application. An application without the appropriate fees will be rejected and returned. Acceptable payment methods include cashier's check, personal check, or money order.
  • Background Investigation: Filing the application permits an investigation into the applicant's background. Disqualifying information may lead to disapproval, even if other application requirements are met.
  • Certificate of Good Standing: A current "Certificate of Good Standing," issued within 21 days of the application, is necessary. This certificate verifies that the business entity has no outstanding tax obligations to the state.