What Are the Different Types of Badges in Google Maps for Businesses?

Types of Google Maps Badges | Guide for Local SEO Optimization

What Are the Different Types of Badges for Google Maps?

Google Maps badges are special icons, labels, or highlights that appear on a Google Business Profile (GBP) to signify trust, popularity, special status, or ownership type. These badges help users identify businesses that meet certain criteria—and often improve visibility, credibility, and click-through rates in local search results.

Google uses various signals such as reviews, activity, profile completeness, and verification to award these badges.

🏆 Common Types of Google Maps Badges

1. Top Rated Badge

This unofficial badge appears for businesses with consistently high average ratings (typically 4.5+) and a strong volume of positive reviews compared to local competitors.

2. Local Favorite Badge

Google occasionally designates select businesses in a category or area as a “Local Favorite,” based on user engagement, popularity, and review history.

These badges may appear in the Google Maps app or Local Guides promotions during limited campaigns.

3. Google Guaranteed Badge (For Service Businesses in Select Countries)

Issued as part of Google Local Services Ads (LSA), this badge means the business passed a Google background check and is backed by the Google Guarantee. Available in categories like locksmiths, plumbers, and cleaners.

4. Women-Led / Black-Owned / Veteran-Led / LGBTQ+ Friendly Badges

These are self-identification badges that allow business owners to highlight their leadership or community identity. These badges show up in profiles and help users support businesses aligned with their values.

5. Booking & Service Badges

If your business is integrated with Reserve with Google, or offers appointment booking via supported platforms, badges like "Book Online" may appear on your profile.

✅ Key Terms Related to Google Maps Badges:

✅ Why Badges Matter for Local SEO:

• Increase trust and credibility at a glance

• Boost CTR (click-through rates) in local search results

• Improve brand differentiation in competitive markets

• Help you stand out on mobile and Google Maps search

📌 Pro Tip:
While not all badges are within your control, many depend on profile completeness, reputation management, and consistent local activity. Keep your Google Business Profile updated, respond to reviews, and maintain strong local signals.

🎯 Want to Earn More Visibility on Google Maps?
Our Local SEO Services help you optimize your Google Business Profile, build local citations, and improve trust signals—giving your business the best chance to stand out with badges and higher rankings. Explore our SEO Packages for affordable solutions.