Secretary of State Registration Requirement

Procurement on Minnstate.edu

Last updated: 2025-05-20


Secretary of State Registration

Ensure your business meets Minnesota’s legal requirements to operate.

Background

In Minnesota, most businesses must register with the Secretary of State to legally operate. Even if exempt from registration, you may still need other licenses, permits, or registrations—and must comply with tax, zoning, and industry rules. Consult legal or business professionals for full compliance.

Procurement staff will verify your registration status before any contract is finalized. If you’re not registered, complete this step to proceed.

Process

Sole proprietors and general partnerships operating under the full legal names of the owners are exempt. E.g., “John Smith Painting” need not register, but “Smith Painting” must.

Out-of-state entities must obtain a Certificate of Authority under Minn. Stat. § 303.03. Complete the Certificate of Authority to Transact Business form for your entity type.

Your Registered Agent must:

  • An individual Minnesota resident at a physical MN address
  • Or a business authorized in MN with a physical office

They receive legal notices on behalf of your entity.

Secretary of State Resources

Phone

651-296-2803 (Metro)

1-877-551-6767 (Greater MN)

Office Hours

8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

By appointment only

Resources

30 East 7th Street, St. Paul, MN 55101-7804

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