Franchise Registration / Registration States

What Franchise Registration Is

Certain U.S. states require franchisors to register their FDD and other legal documents before offering or selling franchises. These states are known as registration states.

How Registration Works

• Franchisors submit their FDD and supporting documents to the state regulator

• Regulators review for completeness and compliance with state law

• Approval is required before any franchise sales can occur in that state

Why It Matters

If a franchisor is not properly registered, a franchise sale in that state may be illegal, and the prospective franchisee could be at risk. Always confirm registration status before committing to a purchase.

List of Common Registration States

• California

• New York

• Illinois

• Florida

• Hawaii

• Maryland

• Minnesota

• Rhode Island

• Virginia

• Washington

Requirements vary by state, so check the latest information for accuracy.

Legal Disclaimer

This information is for general educational purposes only and is not legal or financial advice. Always consult qualified professionals before entering into a franchise agreement or verifying registration compliance.