The first step to applying for a motor vehicle dealership license in New Jersey is to download the new and used dealership application forms from the state's Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC). This application package contains the application form, affidavit, signature card, application for fingerprints, and supplemental application form.

You must complete the entire application (making sure that the owners, partners, and corporate officers submit to fingerprinting as required) and mail it to:

• Motor Vehicle Commission

• Business License Compliance

• Dealer Licensing Unit

• P.O. Box 171

• 225 East State St.

• Trenton, NJ 08666-0171

• Phone: (609) 292-4517

Once your application is received by the MVC, both you and your place of business will be fully investigated by state authorities. You will also be asked to pay a one-time fee of $78 to cover the cost of the required background checks, and you should provide a copy of your receipt for this payment as part of your business application.

After your application is approved, which usually takes eight to 12 weeks, the fee for a wall license is $100, and a set of five dealer license plates is available for $158.50 (or $51 for three motorcycle dealer plates).

Once you are licensed to sell cars, you may also deal in leased vehicles and mopeds without obtaining any additional license.

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