A Shop Act License is a crucial document for businesses in Maharashtra, such as retail stores, grocery shops, and small to medium-sized enterprises. It ensures compliance with local labour laws and regulations under the Maharashtra Shops and Establishments Act. This blog provides a detailed step-by-step guide to help you Apply for Shop Act License Online in Maharashtra, prepare the necessary documents, and complete the process from the comfort of your home.

What is a Shop Act License?
A Shop Act License is issued under the Maharashtra Shops and Establishments Act. It is required for businesses to operate legally and display the license on their premises.
Who Needs It?
- Retail Shops
- Grocery Stores
- Clothing Shops
- Other Small and Medium Businesses
Key Features:
- Can be applied online from home.
- No need for a CSC ID or Maha Online ID.
What Documents Required Apply for Shop Act License Online in Maharashtra
To apply for the Shop Act License, prepare the following:
- Aadhaar Card (both sides in PDF format)
- PAN Card (if available)
- Shop Photographs with the name board in Marathi.
- Self-Declaration Form with the shop owner’s signature.
- Rental Agreement (if applicable).
- Consent Letter from Property Owner (if the property is rented).
Step-by-Step Process to Apply for Shop Act License Online in Maharashtra
Step 1: Visit the Official Portal
Open the browser and navigate to the Shop Act License Registration Portal.
https://aaplesarkar.mahaonline.gov.in/en
Step 2: Register as a New User:
Click on the New User Registration button.
Select your district (e.g., Nagpur).
Enter a valid mobile number and email ID to receive an OTP.
Create a username by combining the first and last names with numbers.
Check username availability and create a strong password.
Fill in the details such as name (as per Aadhaar) and date of birth.
Click Send OTP, enter the OTP received on your mobile, and click Register.
After registration, note down your User ID and password for future use.
Step 3: Log In to the Portal:
Use the registered User ID and password to log in.
Enter the captcha code and select your district to proceed.
Click on Registration of Shop and Establishment
Step 4: Fill Out the Application Form:
Shop Details:
Enter the shop name (as on the name board).
Provide the shop address, including landmarks, ward number, district, and taluka.
Ensure the address is typed in English, which will auto-translate into Marathi.
Ownership Details:
Select ownership type: Self-Owned or Rented.
If rented, upload the rental agreement.
Nature of Business:
Specify your business type (e.g., Grocery, Clothing, Decoration, etc.).
If your business type isn’t listed, choose Other and enter the details.
Worker Details:
Enter the number of male and female employees.
Include family members working in the shop, if applicable.
Manager Details:
If you have a manager, enter their details. Otherwise, leave it blank.
List of documents required for Registration Shop License Maharashtra
Step 5: Upload Required Documents:
Proof of Identity (Any One Required)
PAN Card
Passport
Aadhaar Card
Driving License
Election/Voter ID
Proof of Address (One Required):
Rent Receipt
Telephone Bill
Electricity Bill
Sale/Purchase Deed
Property Tax Paid Receipt
Notarized Leave and License Agreement
Society Maintenance Receipt
Other Supporting Documents (Any One Required):
Copy of license/registration required under any other law from any authority before starting the business
Mandatory Documents (All Required):
Annexure A: Self-Declaration Form
Annexure B: Self-Declaration Form for Self-Attestation
Actual photo of the establishment displaying the establishment’s signboard (name).
Identity Verification Documents (Any One Required):
ROC (Registration of Company)
MOA (Memorandum of Association) or Registration Certificate
List of Trustees/Trust Members
Proof of Registered Address
Resolution of Society regarding starting of business
List of Chairman and Members of Co-operative Society
List of Directors and Nomination of Directors (Resolution)
Registration Certificate issued by Charity Commissioner
Certificate of Incorporation or Commencement Certificate under the Companies Act
Partnership Deed (Include pages with names of partners, signatures, business name, and percentage of partnership).
Nature of Business Verification Documents (Any One Required):
RBI Permission Copy
RTO Transport Permit
Collector’s Permission Copy
License from Agriculture Department
Food License from Concerned Authority
Food and Drugs Administration License
NOC from Police Department (for cybercafés)
IEC Certificate (for Import-Export businesses)
Certificate issued by SEBI (for share brokers)
License from the Police Department (for security services)
NOC from Municipal Corporation (for flour/mill operations)
Excise License (for wine shops, beer bars, or restaurants)
NOC from Municipal Commissioner, Fire Brigade, Collector, and Police Department
Ensure you have all relevant documents prepared and verified as per the type and nature of your business. This will streamline the Gumasta License registration process effectively.
Step 6: Make Payment:
Pay the required fee of ₹23.60 using UPI, debit card, or credit card.
Do not refresh or go back during the payment process to avoid transaction failure.
Step 7: Download Your License:
Once the payment is successful, the license will be generated immediately for businesses with fewer than 9 employees.
For businesses with more than 9 employees, it may take 8–15 days to receive the certificate.
Download the license and print it to display at your shop.
Important Notes
- Double-check all details before submitting the form to avoid errors.
- Keep the User ID and password secure for future access.
- For rented properties, upload the rental agreement and consent letter.
Ensure the Marathi name board is visible in the shop photograph.
If you want to apply for a shop and Establishment License In Mumbai then read the following guide
for 0 to 9 employees and 10+ employees
Registering for a Shop Act License is a straightforward process that ensures your business operates legally and remains compliant with local regulations in Maharashtra. By following this guide, you can complete the application process online without hassle. Whether you’re a shop owner, entrepreneur, or business operator, this license not only legitimizes your establishment but also enables access to business loans and other government benefits. Start your registration today and take a step toward legal compliance and business growth!
FAQs for Apply for Shop Act License Online in Maharashtra
1. What is a Shop Act License?
It is a legal document under the Maharashtra Shops and Establishments Act required to operate a business in the state.
2. Who needs a Shop Act License?
Retail shops, grocery stores, clothing shops, and small to medium-sized businesses.
3. What documents are required to apply?
Aadhaar Card, PAN Card, shop photograph with a Marathi name board, rental agreement (if applicable), and self-declaration form.
4. How do I apply for a Shop Act License online?
Register on the Aaple Sarkar portal, fill in the details, upload documents, and pay the fee.
5. What is the application fee?
The fee is ₹23.60, payable via UPI, debit card, or credit card.
6. How long does it take to get the license?
For businesses with fewer than 9 employees, it’s issued immediately; for 10+ employees, it takes 8–15 days.
7. Can I apply from home?
Yes, the process is entirely online via the Aaple Sarkar portal.
8. Is a Marathi name board mandatory?
Yes, the shop photograph must display a visible Marathi name board.
9. Do I need a rental agreement for a rented property?
Yes, upload the rental agreement and consent letter from the property owner.
10. Can I edit my application after submission?
No, double-check all details before submitting to avoid errors.