Florida DBA search: how to look up a fictitious name
Use the Fictitious Names search on Sunbiz, run by the Florida Division of Corporations. You can search by fictitious name, owner name, owner charter number, owner FEI/EIN or registration number. Results show the owner, county and status.
How to search Florida fictitious names
- Go to the Search Records page on Sunbiz (Florida Division of Corporations).
- Under Fictitious Names, choose Fictitious Name.
- Type the name. You don't need the whole name; the closest matches are listed first.
- Click a result to see the registration details.
The same section lets you search by owner name, owner charter number, owner FEI/EIN or registration number. To search by a person's name, enter it last name first.
Reading a result
| Registration number | The 12-digit number the state assigns. You need it to renew. |
|---|---|
| Status | Active registrations are current. Expired ones can't be renewed. |
| Owner | The person or entity registered as the owner, with address |
| County | The county of the principal place of business |
| Filed and expiration dates | When it was registered and when it expires |
Search more than fictitious names
A fictitious name search alone isn't enough to choose a name. Also check:
- Corporation and LLC names, in the Corporations section of Sunbiz search
- Florida trademarks, also searchable on Sunbiz
- Federal trademarks, through the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office
- Domain names and social handles you'll want to use
What a match means
Florida will register a fictitious name even if someone already has it, because registration is for public notice only. That doesn't make it a good idea. A name already in use can confuse customers and can expose you to infringement claims, which the Division of Corporations doesn't screen for. A clear search also isn't legal clearance; for brand names you're investing in, consider a trademark attorney.
Common questions
Can two businesses register the same DBA in Florida?
Yes. The state doesn't block duplicate fictitious names, because registration is public notice only. You should still avoid names already in use.
How do I find out who owns a DBA in Florida?
Search the name under Fictitious Names on Sunbiz and open the result. The detail page lists the owner's name and address.
Is a Sunbiz search the same as a trademark search?
No. Sunbiz shows Florida registrations. Federal trademarks are searched separately through the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office.
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