Register as a business. In order to operate as a business, you will have to register a "doing business as" (DBA) name. This name must be different than just your name or the names of you and your partners. If you are organized as an LLC or corporation, you don't have to register a separate DBA name. Registration is done with your county clerk or with your state, depending on your location. This name will be used on all legal documents related to your business.