Do I need a DBA for my graphic design business if I want to use a creative business name, rather than my own legal name?

If you will be holding yourself out to the public as something other than your 'official' name then it is best to have a DBA.

Yes you need a DBA. However, please note that you do not necessarily have the right to use your name in interstate commerce -- you need to ensure that no one else with your name or a similar name has registered the name you wish to use with the USPTO in which case you could become liable for trademark infringement.

Yes: Florida law requires you to register a Fictitious Name with the Florida Department of State when doing business under any name other than your own exact legal name. This requires submission of a form with a $50 fee, and advertising once in the county in which you will be doing business. You can file the forms with the Department of State's website, "Sunbiz", the main menu of which will direct you to the online form section. The legal notices section of local papers will charge small fees for the required publication. Good luck with your new venture.

Yes. I would suggest that you register a DBA if you are marketing with your creative business name.