Dealer Licensing in Indiana

The Auto Dealer Services Division of the Indiana Secretary of State (SOS) issues car dealer licenses. You must obtain a dealer license if you sell or advertise at least 12 vehicles in 12 months.

To become an Indiana car dealer, you must meet the state’s application requirements AND dealership location requirements—we’ll go over the basics below! 

Applying for an IN Dealer License

As part of the application process, you’ll need to turn in the following items:

Once you’ve double checked that you have all the required items above, send your completed application to:

Office of the Indiana Secretary of State
Auto Dealer Services Division
302 W. Washington St.
Room E-111
Indianapolis, IN 46204

Keep in mind, the dealership itself also needs to meet requirements set out by the state.

If you have difficulties or questions while putting together your Indiana dealer license application, don’t hesitate to call the Auto Dealer Services Division at (317) 234-7190 for help.

NOTE: The business name and address listed on all required documents MUST MATCH the business name and address you list on your car dealer application.

Dealership Requirements

Once you know and have all the requirements YOU need to become a car dealer in Indiana, it’s time to make sure your DEALERSHIP meets all the state’s requirements too.

Whether you’re a new or used dealer, your place of business must:

  • Be at least 1,300 square feet.
  • Be able to display at least 10 vehicles.
  • Provide ample lighting during operational hours.
  • Provide customers with parking areas with asphalt, concrete, rock, or another surface that won’t change with weather conditions.
  • Have an office that is:
    • Located at your place of business.
    • A minimum of 100 square feet.
    • Furnished with basic office furniture (a desk, chairs, filing cabinets, etc.)
    • Equipped with utilities including electricity, heat, light, plumbing, and a business phone.
  • Have a permanent, easily seen sign that states the dealer’s name and hours of operation.
  • BE EITHER:
    • Staffed and open for at least 30 hours per week.
      OR
    • Staffed and open for at least 20 hours per week with the remaining 10 hours serviced by a mobile, pager, or telephone answering service.

For additional guidance, call the IN Auto Dealer Services Division at (317) 234-7190.

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