What Is a Master Business Licence in Ontario and How to Get One?

A Master Business Licence (MBL) is an older name for Ontario’s Business Name Registration. In 2026, the province still issues a Business Name Registration document (sometimes still called a master business licence) when you register a sole proprietorship, partnership or corporate trade name. 

This registration gives you legal authority to operate under a business name, produces a Business Identification Number (BIN) for provincial filings, and allows you to open a business bank account. It does not provide trademark protection or exclusive rights to the name.

Why Register a Business Name?

Ontario law requires registration if you operate a business under any name other than your own personal legal name. A Business Name Registration (MBL) is necessary for:

• Sole proprietors using a trade name: If you operate alone and use any name other than your exact legal name, you must register.
• General partnerships and limited liability partnerships: All partnerships must register their business name before carrying on business.
• Corporations using a different operating name (trade name): If a corporation uses a name other than its legal corporate name, it must register the trade name.

You do not need to register if you operate under your personal name alone or if your business is a corporation using its exact legal corporate name.

What the Business Name Registration Provides

Once approved, your Business Name Registration (MBL) gives you:

• Legal authority to operate under the registered name within Ontario.
• A Business Identification Number (BIN) to identify your business for Ontario filings, permit applications and other provincial services.
• The ability to open a business bank account and apply for credit using the registered name.

It does not act as a trademark or protect your name from being used by others. For name protection, you must register a trademark federally or provincially.

Costs and Business Structures

Business name registration fees are the same across Ontario and are set by the provincial government. According to the Ontario government’s online registration portal, in 2026 the fees (in Canadian dollars) are:

The registration is valid for five years and must be renewed before it expires. Renewals cost the same as the original registration. The province allows a 60‑day grace period after expiry, but if you miss that window, you must register again.

Information You Need Before Registering

Before you begin the registration process, gather the following:

1. Proposed business name: You can provide up to three options; names cannot contain legal endings such as Inc., Ltd. or Inc. if you are not incorporating.
2. Business activities: A short description of what you will do under the business name.
3. Business address: A physical address in Ontario (not a PO Box) and a mailing address if different.
4. Registrant details: Full legal names, addresses and personal contact details of all owners or partners.
5. Payment method: Valid credit card or debit card.
6. Ontario Corporation Number (OCN): If you are a corporation registering a trade name.

You will also need an active email address to receive confirmations and a My Ontario or ServiceOntario account to access the Ontario Business Registry.

Step‑by‑Step: How to Get a Business Name Registration (Master Business Licence)

1. Create an Ontario Business Registry account: Sign in with a ServiceOntario or My Ontario account. If you do not have one, create it before registering.
2. Complete the online application: Select the business structure (sole proprietorship, partnership or trade name for a corporation) and enter the required information: business name options, activities, addresses and owners’ details.
3. Pay the registration fee: The fee for most structures is $60; limited partnerships pay $210. Payment is made online by credit or debit card.
4. Receive your Business Identification Number (BIN): Once payment is processed, your registration is issued immediately and you will receive a BIN on the confirmation screen and via email. Save this number for future filings and renewals.
5. Renew your registration every five years: Set a reminder to renew within 60 days of expiry. Use the same Ontario Business Registry account to update or renew your registration.

Differences Between BIN, BN, and Company Key

• Business Identification Number (BIN): Issued by Ontario for business name registrations. Used for Ontario filings such as licence renewals.
• Business Number (BN): Issued federally by the Canada Revenue Agency for tax accounts (GST/HST, payroll, import/export). You will obtain a BN when you set up your CRA accounts.
• Company key: A unique passcode used to make changes to your registration in the Ontario Business Registry; provided after registration.
• NUANS report: A name search report is required only when incorporating a corporation. It is not required for business name registration.

Next Steps After Registration

Getting a Business Name Registration (MBL) is the first step. Depending on your activities, you may also need to:

• Obtain a CRA business number and register for GST/HST if your revenue exceeds the small‑supplier threshold or you expect to have employees. The BN is separate from the provincial BIN.
• Open a business bank account using your BIN and registration certificate.
• Register with the Workplace Safety and Insurance Board (WSIB) if you hire employees.
• Check municipal licences and permits for your location and industry.
• Protect your business name by registering a trademark if you want exclusive rights. A business name registration alone does not provide trademark protection.

Conclusion

A Business Name Registration is a simple but essential requirement for most unincorporated businesses and trade names in Ontario. It legitimises your business activities, provides a BIN for provincial filings and enables you to open a business bank account. Registration is affordable and can be completed quickly online through the Ontario Business Registry. Remember to renew every five years to keep your registration active.

Need help with the registration process, choosing the right business structure or understanding your tax obligations? Contact Bestax to speak with Canadian business registration specialists who can guide you through every step, ensure compliance and help you plan for growth.

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Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for general informational purposes only. For professional assistance and advice, please contact experts.