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Florida Fictitious Name (DBA) Registration

A Florida business operating under a name other than its legal name must register the fictitious name with the Division of Corporations (§ 865.09). Before registering, the registrant must have advertised the intention to register at least once in a newspaper in the county of the principal place of business.

By Find Local Law Editorial Team · Last reviewed: May 26, 2026

Researched and drafted with AI assistance and verified against primary sources (statutes, Judicial Council forms, and official court websites). This is general information, not legal advice.

This is general information, not legal advice. A Florida attorney can confirm what your business needs.

If your business uses a name other than its legal name — a “doing business as” or DBA — Florida has a registration step you can’t skip.

When you must register

A business operating under a name other than its legal name must register the fictitious name with the Division of Corporations (§ 865.09).

The publication rule

Florida also requires the registrant to have advertised the intention to register the fictitious name at least once in a newspaper in the county of the principal place of business — before registering. This newspaper-advertising step is part of the process under § 865.09.

Next steps

A fictitious name is not the same as forming an entity — see choosing a business entity if you also want a liability shield through an LLC or corporation. For help registering correctly, connect with a lawyer.

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Frequently asked questions

Do I need to register a DBA in Florida?
Yes. A business operating under a name other than its legal name must register the fictitious name with the Division of Corporations under § 865.09.
Is there a publication requirement for a Florida DBA?
Yes. Florida requires the registrant to have advertised the intention to register the fictitious name at least once in a newspaper in the county of the principal place of business before registering.
Where do I register a fictitious name?
With the Florida Department of State, Division of Corporations, under § 865.09.

Sources

Related guides

  • Choosing a Business Entity in Florida Florida businesses commonly operate as sole proprietorships, partnerships, LLCs (Florida Revised LLC Act, ch. 605), or corporations (Florida Business Corporation Act, ch. 607). LLCs and corporations are formed by filing with the Division of Corporations and generally shield owners' personal assets; sole proprietors and general partners do not get that shield. Florida has no state personal income tax.
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