Do You Need a License to Sell Vitamins and Supplements? Understanding the Requirements

Do you need a license to sell vitamins and supplements? It’s a question many new entrepreneurs ask, and for good reason. The global dietary supplements market is projected to reach $239 billion by 2028, with thousands of new online sellers entering the space each year. But with opportunity comes regulation.

From federal requirements that ensure product safety to state-specific licenses you might not expect, the rules aren’t always straightforward. 

This guide will break it down so you know exactly what’s required before launching your supplement business, and how to protect your brand while staying compliant.

Licensing Requirements for Selling Vitamins and Supplements: A Complete Guide

Many businesses entering the dietary supplement market wonder, “Do I need a license to sell supplements?”.  The short answer is yes, whether you plan to sell in a physical store or operate entirely online.

Correct licensing is more than a legal formality. It demonstrates your commitment to meeting the stringent standards for dietary supplement health and safety. 

More importantly, it builds trust with consumers who are increasingly conscious of where their supplements come from and how they’re regulated.

Federal vs. State Licensing Requirements

Selling supplements involves navigating both federal oversight and state-specific rules. At the federal level, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulates dietary supplements under the Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act (DSHEA). 

State governments may require additional licenses, permits, or registrations before you can legally sell products. Understanding which agencies oversee your operations ensures you stay compliant at every level.

Business Model and Product Type Impact Your Licensing Needs

The type of supplements you sell, and how you source them, can affect your licensing obligations. 

For example, selling private-label supplements may require fewer direct manufacturing licenses than producing your own formulas. Products making specific health claims might also require extra documentation or approvals before they can be marketed.

Location-Specific Permits for Online and Offline Sales

Licensing rules can vary widely between states and even between cities. If you sell supplements online, you may need to meet the requirements of every state you ship to. 

While the process can be rigorous, securing the right licenses protects public health and ensures your business stays compliant.

What Licenses Do You Need to Sell Dietary Supplements?

If you’ve been asking yourself, do you need a license to sell vitamins and supplements, the answer is almost always yes, but the exact requirements vary by country, state, and even city. It’s essential to check the rules for your specific location before you start selling.

In most cases, supplement sellers may need some or all of the following:

• Business License – The first legal step in selling dietary supplements, whether online or in a physical store. A business license legitimizes your operations under local and state authorities.
• Dietary Supplement Manufacturing License – Required if you manufacture your products. It ensures compliance with safety and quality standards, preventing legal issues and penalties.
• Facility Registration – Needed in some jurisdictions, especially for manufacturing facilities. It allows regulatory agencies to inspect and audit your operations.
• Product Registration – May be required for specific supplements or ingredients, ensuring your products are legally recognized and safe for consumers.
• Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) Certification – Mandated in many regions to guarantee that supplements are produced consistently and meet quality standards.
• Labeling Compliance – Proper health claims, ingredient lists, and disclaimers are required to meet legal standards and build customer trust.

Understanding the Regulatory Environment for Supplement Sales

Due to the delicate nature of supplement sales and the prevalence of health-related claims, both federal and state governments closely oversee the dietary supplements industry. 

If you’re asking, what license do you need to sell supplements? The answer lies within this regulatory framework, which exists to ensure products are safe, accurately labeled, and effective.

Certain local authorities may also require additional permits before you can legally operate, making due diligence a critical step for any supplement seller.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA), which regulates dietary supplements, has established strict guidelines for manufacturing, labeling, and marketing. These rules aim to prevent unsafe or adulterated supplements from reaching consumers, protecting public health and safety.

Additionally, the FDA requires dietary supplement manufacturers to register their facilities and provide product information. This registration process helps verify that supplements, whether sold online or in physical stores, meet safety and quality standards before reaching the market.

Expert’s Advice: Navigating Compliance for Long-Term Growth

If you’re wondering about licensing, remember that compliance isn’t just about meeting today’s requirements; it’s about protecting your business for the long term. 

Beyond checking federal and local licensing rules, establish a documented quality management process that aligns with FDA Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP). 

This makes future regulatory inspections smoother, builds consumer trust, and can give you a competitive edge when partnering with major retailers or distributors.

For e-commerce sellers, compliance also impacts payment processing and ad approvals. Platforms like Meta, Google, and Amazon often require proof of compliance before allowing supplement ads or listings. 

Getting ahead of these requirements can shorten launch timelines, prevent account suspensions, and build trust with payment processors,  ensuring smoother scaling when demand increases.

Launch Your Supplement Business the Right Way

Slowly but steadily, we reached the end of the story. To sum everything up, in case you’re still wondering, do you need a license to sell vitamins and supplements?, the answer is a resounding YES. Licensing is essential for legal compliance, customer trust, and long-term growth.

By following all regulations and staying updated on legal changes, you can avoid setbacks and focus on growth. Combine this with insurance, clear labeling, and quality products to build trust.

When you’re ready to take the next step, why not explore private label supplements? You’ll get regulation-ready products, industry expertise, and the support you need to launch and grow your supplement business with confidence.

The information provided in this article is meant for general informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional or legal advice. We do not guarantee the completeness, accuracy, reliability, or suitability of the information in this article. We strongly recommend seeking professional guidance that suits your individual circumstances.