Every person or company conducting business in San José must register for a Business Tax Certificate. The City of San Jose's Finance Department can provide you with a list of all registered business at a nominal fee.San Jose business license application. The "Starting a New Business in California" brochure should be used as a general tool to help you broadly assess how to start a business in California. To register a new business click the button below. Find help for Small Businesses in San Jose, including free legal services, financial resources, grants and help with safety or blight issues. How to Register a Fictitious Business Name. How to Purchase an Existing Business in California - San Jose Corporate Lawyer. 24 Businesses Available to Buy Now in San Jose, California on BFS, The World's Largest Marketplace for Buying and Selling a Business. If you are starting a corporation or a limited liability company, you must contact the California Secretary of State's Office.