How to apply DTI Business permit for a Sari-sari Store Business

Table of Contents

I. Importance of DTI Business Permit
II. Requirements, Eligibility, Fees for Applying DTI Business Permit
III. How to Apply for DTI Business Permit 
IV. Pro Tip: What to Do After Getting Your DTI Business Permit

I. Importance of DTI Business Permit

Setting up a sari-sari store business is a popular and accessible way to earn extra income in the Philippines. But before you start selling goods in your neighborhood, registering your store and securing a DTI Business Permit for Sari-sari Store Business is a critical first step. This official registration not only gives your store a legal identity but also protects your business name from being used by others.

The DTI Business Permit is essential for sole proprietors, especially for micro-businesses like sari-sari stores. It validates your store’s legitimacy and allows you to operate with confidence in your community. As outlined on the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) website, business name registration gives you the exclusive rights to use your chosen store name within a specified area, reinforcing your brand identity and credibility.

It's important to understand that DTI registration is different from other business permits such as a barangay or mayor’s permit. While the DTI focuses on your business name and legal identity, local government units issue permits that authorize you to conduct business in a particular area. Both are essential, but serve different legal and operational purposes.

Completing your Sari-sari store business registration with the DTI is more than just a requirement—it’s a smart move to protect and grow your business from the very beginning.

II. Requirements, Eligibility, Fees for Applying DTI Business Permit

To be eligible for Sari-sari store business registration, the applicant must meet any of the following:

• Filipino citizens at least 18 years old
• Foreign nationals legally allowed to do business in the Philippines
• Refugees or stateless persons recognized by the DOJ-RSPPU
• You may also authorize someone to apply on your behalf with a signed authorization letter and valid ID.

A business owner can also authorize a representative to handle the sari-sari store business registration by submitting a signed authorization letter, valid ID, and required documents.

DTI Business Registration Requirements for a Sari-Sari Store

To register your sari-sari store business with the DTI, you’ll need the following:

• At least one (up to three) preferred business names
• Valid government-issued ID (e.g., UMID, Passport, Voter’s ID)
• Complete home or business address
• Chosen territorial scope (Barangay, City, Regional, or National)
• Payment for the registration fee and documentary stamp

* Extra documentation is needed for foreign nationals and individuals without citizenship.

You can submit these documents through the DTI Business Name Registration System (BNRS), where registration can be done online.

Fees for DTI Business Permit (As of Latest Schedule)

The fees for registering your DTI Business Permit vary based on the scope of business operations:

• Barangay – ₱200
• City/Municipality – ₱500
• Regional – ₱1,000
• National – ₱2,000

In addition, there is a Documentary Stamp Tax (DST) of ₱30.

These fees are valid for a five-year period, after which you may renew your Sari-sari store business registration through the same DTI system.

By registering early, you ensure your sari-sari store operates legally and gains access to government support, loans, and programs available only to registered businesses. Take the first step and secure your DTI Business Permit today to build a strong foundation for your small business success.

III. How to Apply for DTI Business Permit 

Ways to apply for DTI Business permit:

Apply via Online:

DTI offers online registration through its Business Name Registration System (BNRS). Here’s how:

• Visit https://bnrs.dti.gov.ph
• Check if your business name is available
• Fill out the online application
• Pay online via GCash, PayMaya, credit card, or over-the-counter banking
• Download and print your Certificate of Business Name Registration

For the official step-by-step guide, visit this BNRS Registration Page

Apply Offline:

1. Go to the nearest DTI Regional/Provincial Office or Negosyo Center

• Find a branch here: https://www.dti.gov.ph/contact/

2. Secure and fill out the Business Name Registration Form (BN Form No. 01)

• Bring 1 to 3 business name proposals.
• Be ready with your full business and residential address.

3. Present a valid government-issued ID
4. Choose your territorial scope

• Decide whether your sari-sari store will operate on a Barangay, City, Regional, or National level.

5. Pay the registration fees
6. Wait for processing and receive your Certificate

• In most cases, you can receive your DTI Business Permit the same day, unless there are issues with your business name.

IV. Pro Tip: What to Do After Getting Your DTI Business Permit

Obtaining your DTI Business Permit for Sari-Sari Store Business is just the first step. Subsequent requirements include:

• Barangay Clearance: Secure this from your local barangay office.
• Mayor’s Permit: Apply at your city or municipal hall.
• BIR Registration: Register with the Bureau of Internal Revenue to obtain a Tax Identification Number (TIN) and authority to print receipts.

These permits ensure your sari-sari store operates legally and can access various business opportunities.

Securing a DTI Business Permit for your Sari-sari Store Business is a simple yet powerful step toward becoming a legitimate entrepreneur. It not only protects your business name but also opens doors to legal operations, financial opportunities, and long-term growth. Complete your Sari-sari store business registration today and take the first step toward building a trusted and successful neighborhood store.