In this subtitle, “license” has the meaning stated in §§ 17–101 and 17–201 of this title.

A person may not do any business in the State for which a license is required under this title unless the person has an appropriate license.

A person may not fail to display a license, license sticker, or metal tag as required by this title.

With the approval of the Comptroller or the Executive Director, as appropriate, the chief license inspector, an assistant license inspector, or an agent of the Field Enforcement Division of the Alcohol and Tobacco Commission shall begin proceedings to prosecute each person who: is required to get a license from a clerk under this title; but fails to get the license or to pay an adequate license fee.

In a prosecution for selling goods without an appropriate license, proof that the defendant displayed or offered the goods for sale or kept a place of business where the goods were displayed or offered for sale is prima facie evidence that the defendant sold goods.

Except as otherwise specifically provided in this title, a person who violates this subtitle is guilty of a misdemeanor and, on conviction, is subject to a fine not exceeding $300 or imprisonment not exceeding 30 days. Each agent or officer of a corporation convicted of violating this subtitle who actually engaged in the unlicensed business is individually subject to the penalties provided by law. The penalty provided in this section does not affect any other penalty specifically provided by law for a violation of a license law.